Wikimedian in residence (function)

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This is a generic description of the function of a Wikimedian in residence. For the specific 2022 project of Wikimedia Belgium, see Wikimedia in residence project.

A Wikimedian in residence or Wikipedian in residence (WiR) is a role for a Wikimedia platform editor to accept an assignment within an institution or organisation to facilitate writing Wikipedia articles, amending Wikidata entries, performing Wikimedia Commons uploads, and other output on the Wikimedia platforms related to that institution. Often a WiR is recruited by a cultural institution (GLAM), but a WiR can serve in other types of organisations as well (universities, highschools).

The position of a Wikimedian in residence is a temporary position for an experienced Wikimedian editor housed inside an organisation, and often hired by that institution. This experienced editor introduces the organisation to using the Wikimedia platforms and trains the organisation's staff to independently working with the different tools. Another task of the Wikimedian in residence could be to release the materials from the institution under a free license for Wikipedia, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons or other Wikimedia platforms.

It could be organised as an internship.

Limitation: A Wikimedian in residence cannot write or edit a Wikipedia article related to the organisation, as that would result in a conflict of interest.

Note: WiR is also an acronym of Women in Red.

Requirements[edit]

Some requirements for Wikimedia editors to be hired as a WiR are:

  • experienced in editing Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia platform;
  • having a good reputation as an editor;
  • being aware of the policies, conventions, and guidelines (what is allowed and what not);
  • not causing a conflict of interest, not editing Wikipedia article(s) related to the institution;
  • in good standing with the local communities of the various Wikimedia platforms.

Contact[edit]

If you are interested as an organisation to appoint a Wikimedian in residence, please contact Wikimedia Belgium at info@wikimedia.be.

Wikimedia Belgium can assist you in the process of hiring a good Wikipedian in residence. Before the hiring process starts, we can evaluate together with you if a Wikipedian in residence is the most suitable answer to your needs.

Handy links[edit]