An Empirical Study of Web-Based Knowledge Community Success

Authors:
Hui Lin;Weiguo Fan;Linda Wallace;Zhongju Zhang
Affiliations:
Virginia Tech, USA;Virginia Tech, USA;Virginia Tech, USA;University of Connecticut, USA
Venue:
HICSS '07 Proceedings of the 40th Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences
Year:
2007

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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 IT-related 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.