Google has come up with their own answer to Wikipedia, with the introduction of Google Knol.
Instead of the Wikis Wikipedia relies on, Google's version relies on Knols or "knowledge units."
Just like Wikipedia, Knol users will be able to add their own content, edit other entries and will be able to rate existing articles. What Google is doing to set themselves apart is offering AdSense revenue on submissions, making it possible for frequent and popular contributors to earn money.
The articles will be displayed among the results in regular Google searches along with user rankings.
It's still going through its testing phase, but once launched, will be a huge threat to Wikipedia.
Google's Answer to Wikipedia
Knol Lets Contributors Earn AdSense Revenue
Trend Themes
1. Rise of Knowledge-sharing Platforms - The rise of knowledge-sharing platforms like Google Knol presents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the content creation industry.
2. Monetizing User-generated Content - Monetizing user-generated content opens up opportunities for disruptive innovation in the online advertising industry.
3. Increased Competition for Wikipedia - The introduction of Google Knol presents disruptive innovation opportunities for companies seeking to compete with Wikipedia in the knowledge-sharing market.
Industry Implications
1. Publishing - The rise of knowledge-sharing platforms like Google Knol presents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the publishing industry, enabling new revenue models and content creation strategies.
2. Online Advertising - Monetizing user-generated content on platforms like Google Knol presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the online advertising industry, enabling new and more effective ways of reaching target audiences.
3. Information Services - Increased competition for Wikipedia in the knowledge-sharing market presents disruptive innovation opportunities for information services companies seeking to differentiate themselves and offer new value propositions to customers.