Blogs Vs. Wikis

Both Blogs and Wikis are forms of new technology that are innovative ways that people share information. However, there are some key differences between the two. Blogs are websites that a single author creates and shares particular things that they are interested in. The variety of what an author wishes to share with his/her audience can be about anything- thoughts, ideas, reviews, etc. People often will comment on someone’s blog in response to what it posted. Wikis are a bit different because it involves sharing information in which users all collaborate to make. Each user can edit the Wiki, rather than a blog where someone writes and people may only respond.

In today’s fast paced world, Blogs and Wikis are certainly making their mark. In the article, “An Internal Wiki That’s Not Classified” the author explains how the employees for the ambassador for the U.S. Embassy in Rome used to e-mail him the biographies of the people attending a meeting. Now, the people’s biographies can be found directly on Diplopedia- which is a Wiki. Given, that since Wikis can be edited, you must be aware that the information could have false information. However, they try to protect instances like this by requiring people to become legitimate users who can be traced. This shows how Wikis have emerged not just for entertainment purposes but larges as informative and educational resources.

The article “Brooklyn Blog Helps Lead to Drug Raid” explains how a blog started as neighbor noticed that there was unusual behavior and suspected that a house on the block may be being used a crack house. Some other neighbors began responding to the blog, and would update their fellow bloggers whenever they saw or thought something. Eventually, with all the people collaborating they were able to take it to the authorities. Quickly enough, the criminals were busted. Not only is this a perfect example of a blog being used as collaboration but it is also a good example how the technology of blogs has revolutionized the way people interact and share information.

It seems Wikis can be used in a lot of ways. I think it can be especially usful in the work environment. I know when I am working on something at work E-mails and transferring of files can get hectic. I think it would be interesting if I were to put something on there and then my boss could edit it right there.

Wikis and Blogs seem to be making their mark in society, and the opportunities seem endless.