WikIran

From Networked Advocacy

Wikis in action: WikIran

WikIran is a collaborative project using a ‘wiki’ web application to more effectively share information, resources and actions across the US and around the world. The project’s goals are to: better US-Iran relations; prevent a military attack on Iran; and promote a better understanding of the Iranian people and culture.

WikIran was launched as a low-cost way to increase communication and collaboration between a network of organizations concerned with these issues. Prior to the launch, groups often found it difficult to quickly share information and intelligence not only within the network, but to a public audience also concerned with these issues. Contributors can now instantly post and collaboratively develop documents, strategy papers, meeting report-backs and more on WikIran.

The utility of WikIran was put to the test during the network’s “In District Lobby Days” earlier this year. The wiki featured tips on scheduling meetings with Members of Congress, talking points, and facts on key issues – all developed by contributors to the site. Site administrator Carah Ong notes that the wiki was critical to many groups’ successful involvement in the effort. “The wiki is really about empowerment,” Ong says. “The wiki allowed collaboration between groups inside and outside the beltway, as well as it made possible grassroots citizen engagement who might not have otherwise worked together or even had the opportunity to be involved in the effort.”

The wiki, like all new technologies, certainly has its challenges. “Some people are still grappling with how this technology works and benefits them,” Ong notes. The greatest obstacle is encouraging contributions. But active members trust that the energy already created through the site will soon sell the remaining skeptics on its value. Currently 51 people are active contributors. Other examples: • http://balancedsecurity.wikispaces.com/ (3-D Security Initiative) • http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Congresspedia • https://nitrogen.packard.org/default.aspx