How We Do It

Wikipedia calls itself the “encyclopedia anyone can edit,” but when it comes to articles about yourself or your organization, the situation is much different. At Beutler Wiki Relations, we encourage a hands-off approach to Wikipedia engagement, following best practices as recommended by Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales in January 2012.

Wikipedia’s “Conflict of interest” guideline requires any editor who has a close relationship with an article’s subject to disclose the fact when engaging such articles. It also strongly discourages direct editing of articles by those with a financial interest in the article’s content. However, this does not preclude the possibility of meaningful engagement. And while direct editing is not flatly prohibited, it is also not necessary to have a positive impact.

Wikipedia’s rules specifically permit interested parties to make helpful suggestions and offer new material for inclusion. By preparing carefully researched material that is well-written, compatible with Wikipedia’s guidelines, and released under a free license, we can help you win consensus for the implementation of major improvements.

Successful interaction with the Wikipedia community depends on knowing the formal and informal rules of the system, identifying clear opportunities to improve Wikipedia’s article content, and working through the community in cooperation with independent editors to establish consensus for new changes. Because we help you work openly with volunteer editors, we will help you win the confidence of editors who recognize our respect for Wikipedia’s rules and community.