An empirical study of web-based knowledge community success

Hui Lin, Weiguo Fan, Linda Wallace, Zhongju Zhang

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

37 Scopus citations

Abstract

Web-based knowledge communities (WKCs) allow individuals with similar interests to collectively engage in knowledge acquisition and exchange. In spite of increased research interest in the topic of on-line knowledge exchange and social interaction, few studies have identified factors that contribute to WKC success. In this study we apply Preece's community success framework of usability and sociability and the Information System (IS) success model as conceptual foundations for an investigation into the factors that lead to WKC success. We present and empirically test a research model for WKC success using survey data from an ITrelated WKC We find that both usability and sociability factors have a significant effect on user satisfaction which leads to increased sense of community and a greater frequency of WKC usage. This research is one of the first attempts to empirically examine Web-based knowledge community success. The implications for research and practice are also discussed.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 40th Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences 2007, HICSS'07
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007
Externally publishedYes
Event40th Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences 2007, HICSS'07 - Big Island, HI, United States
Duration: Jan 3 2007Jan 6 2007

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences
ISSN (Print)1530-1605

Other

Other40th Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences 2007, HICSS'07
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBig Island, HI
Period1/3/071/6/07

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering

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