Examining Wikipedia With a Broader Lens

• DOI: 10.1145/3173574.3174140
• Publication Date: 2018-04-20T15:38:35Z
• Authors: Nicholas Vincent; Isaac Johnson; Brent Hecht
• Keywords: peer production; User Engagement; Value (mathematics)

The extensive Wikipedia literature has largely considered in isolation, outside of the context its broader Internet ecosystem. Very recent research demonstrated significance this limitation, identifying critical relationships between Google and that are highly relevant to many areas Wikipedia-based practice. This paper extends beyond search engines examine Wikipedia's with large-scale online communities, Stack Overflow Reddit particular. We find evidence consequential, albeit unidirectional relationships. provides substantial value both content increasing visitation, engagement, revenue, but we little these websites contribute return. Overall, findings highlight important connections ecosystem should be by researchers studying Wikipedia. Critically, our results also emphasize key role volunteer-created plays improving other websites, even contributing revenue generation.