Wiki danger zones
Purpose
Highlight common pitfalls that reduce the usefulness of the toolkit.
Avoiding these helps keep the wiki clear, practical, and maintainable.
Words of Wisdom
When in doubt, prioritize clarity, usefulness, and flexibility over completeness.
Policy Dump
Avoid copying official policies, bylaws, or governing documents.
- Link to official sources instead
- Summarize only what is needed for practical use
If information exists in multiple places, one of them will become outdated.
One True Way
There is no single “correct” way to run a Local Group.
- Avoid presenting one approach as the only option
- Show alternatives when helpful
- Acknowledge tradeoffs
The goal is to support decision-making, not replace it.
Museum Effect
Outdated content reduces trust.
- Update content regularly
- Revise or remove outdated guidance
- Archive when appropriate
Inside Knowledge
Do not assume prior knowledge.
- Explain terms, acronyms, and processes
- Avoid local or region-specific shorthand
- Write for someone new to the role
Overload
Too much information reduces usability.
- Avoid long, unstructured text
- Break content into sections or subpages
- Keep pages focused and scannable
If a page feels overwhelming, simplify it.
Duplication
Repeated content creates confusion.
- Link instead of repeating
- Maintain a single source of truth
Over-Prescription
Avoid turning guidance into rigid rules.
- Use flexible language (“consider,” “may,” “often”)
- Allow variation across Local Groups
Key Takeaway
Aim for content that is:
- Clear
- Practical
- Flexible
- Maintainable