Motivation Encyclopedia Problem, Essay Example

This exercise seems almost too simple at first. When considering the information presented in the description/case study, it appears at first glance like the obvious answer would be that the CD-ROM encyclopedia would be the better choice if one was to predict what would succeed.  After all, Microsoft is one of the most well-known computer companies in the world, and they have virtually unlimited resources. They could pour money and time into making sure that their encyclopedia was perfect, or so it would seem. The second option, developed by volunteers from the general public, would seem like it was doomed to failure.

Of course, as we now know, there is an “encyclopedia” created by volunteers, and it is called Wikipedia. The Wikipedia site covers almost any subject or topic one could think of, and each page is supported with references and sources to back up the information presented on the page. It is possible that contributors could place information on the site that is incorrect, but the beauty of the system is that anyone else who sees these errors can fix them or change them. It is a virtually self-correcting system, as there is no way for someone who posts false or incorrect information to stop it from being replaced with correct information.  And all the references and sources used are available at the bottom of each page, so anyone who doubts what they are reading or wants to learn more can check out those references. The Microsoft encyclopedia cannot be fixed, and if something is wrong or updated it will stay that way. The Wikipedia page is the superior model, as it is constantly evolving and growing because of the work of the volunteers who contribute to it.