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:In the 70s, computer programmers collaborated via computer networks to develop software applications. The open-source collaborative model is considered to be the most cost-effective "benchmark model" of developing software. In fact, it has long been recognized that Linux is the largest on-line collaborative project in the World. '''If the new catch-phrase "Working in the Cloud" applies to storing documents and editing them in "cyberspace", then this author has been "Working in the Cloud" since 1998 (long before this "catch-phrase" was invented)...'''
[[Image:wikiProject.png|thumb|500px 600px | '''Wikis can be used to document church projects'''. These can be used as "time capsules" providing information, reflection, and historical significance.]]
:'''This "need to connect" has now extended from educational institutions into our homes and our everyday lives:'''
===The Wrong "Ties That Bind"===
[[Image:wikiMeeting.png|thumb|500px600px|'''Wiki Meetings can be held over longer periods of time, and allow busy individuals to contribute from the comfort of their own home'''. Minutes of those meetings would already by documented online. Wikis can also be used to '''"better prepare meeting content or concerns" to help reduce face-to-face meeting time'''. ]]
:'''Unfortunately, people are instinctively <u>hesitant</u> or <u>protective</u> when faced with exposing their work or contribution to "public editing".'''
::'''Fear of Change'''
:::''It is a fact that '''most people are hesitant to accept change''' (even if it will benefit them in the future)''.[[Image:wikiInstrucion.png|thumb|500px600px|'''WIKIs can be used to provide immediate up-to-date training procedures'''<br />(eg. for computer lab startup/shutdown) ]]
::'''Fear of Commitment (especially time)'''
:::''Time-strapped individuals do not treat this "learning curve" in on-line collaboration as an investment that will reduce volunteer time (especially when applied to database building and remote time-flexible meetings).
===Hidden Opportunity Costs===
[[Image:computerResource.png|thumb|500px600px|'''Since WIKI contents are accessible via the Internet, elements can be "woven" into a comprehensive and customized resource'''. ]]
:'''Westminster United Church can survive without WIKIs'''. Technical aspects of this church (in terms of computers) only make up tiny elements of what the church does. In reality, it is the <u>contribution</u> of the church <u>members</u> and <u>volunteers</u> that keep the church operating.
