What
connec+ipedia is a shared learning community for anyone interested in advancing the knowledge and efforts of those working for the common good.
Why
We think the way learning is accomplished has changed. "While hierarchies are not vanishing, profound changes in the nature of technology, demographics, and the global economy are giving rise to powerful new models of production based on community, collaboration, and self-organization rather than on heirarchy and control." --Wikinomics: How Mass Collaboration Changes Everything
Who
Established and maintained by the Communication & Learning Department at Meyer Memorial Trust, connec+ipedia is a tribute to Fred G. Meyer, the man behind MMT. When Meyer Memorial Trust contemplated developing its own knowledge management system, Mr. Meyer's community spirit and passion for innovation inspired us to build something new that anyone working for the common good could use.
In fact, it seems Fred Meyer predicted connec+ipedia when he said: "Use your brain for thinking, not as a storehouse. First, write things down so you don't have to remember them. Second, learn where to find information so you don't have to remember it." (from Wikipedia, of course).
connec+ipedia is built using Wagn, an open source software solution created by the amazing geeks at Grass Commons, using Ruby on Rails.
Where
We intend that the content on connec+ipedia will reflect the best information and thinking the world has to offer on all subjects.Our focus began in the Pacific NW, becasue that is where we are, but we have watched the community grow across the US, Canada and beyond.
connec+ipedia is potentially useful to people and groups across the United States. Because it is open source software, connec+ipedia is available to anyone anywhere. Foundations and nonprofit organizations are invited to make their own versions.
When
Meyer Memorial Trust began developing connec+ipedia in 2006. Originally intended to be used as a knowledge management tool for MMT, we soon realized connec+tpedia could be a resource for anyone working for the common good. We think that's how Fred Meyer would have wanted it.
History
Watch the launch video: Part 1 and Part 2
Read the narrative with video clips
