Lin, Hui., Fan, W., & Wallace, L. (2007). [An empirical study of web-based knowledge community success](http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpls/abs_all.jsp?arnumber=4076736). Proceedings of the 40th Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences. pp 1530-1605.
on web-based knowledge communities:
>A Web-based knowledge community can be viewed as a website, a web-based information system, and a community. It is a new form of communication whereby community users share knowledge for mutual learning or problem solving and conduct social interactions. As a website, system quality is important to ensure user satisfaction and participation. As a Web-based information system, information quality is a key component as the purpose of a WKC is knowledge acquisition and exchange. Without high quality information, users are less likely to feel satisfied with the community and to continue using it. Information quality and system quality together form usability factors as in Preece’s community success framework.
on satisfaction, community belonging, and contribution:
>As users become satisfied with a community, they are more likely to feel a sense of belonging to the community and identify with other users in the community. This will enhance their participation and communication with other users which in turn increases their usage.
on encouraging sharing (pro-sharing norms):
>One way to encourage knowledge sharing is by forming groups of users with similar interests. This will promote more collaboration among users. Another way to promote knowledge sharing is by offering incentives. Incentives such as bonus points and recognition for frequent contributors can encourage knowledgeable users to share their expertise with novice users. Rewards and recognition can boost user participation which subsequently enhances the pro-sharing norms in the community.