A simple Pattern Language to encourage Wiki Refactoring...
Delimit conversation
Use signature lines to separate thoughts expressed in Thread Mode. Make the signatures part of the paragraph. This works best when thoughts are expressed as a single paragraph. This transformation becomes easier as a page matures and the important ideas become obvious. Use an empty signature (" -- ") when the author is unknown or wishes to remain anonymous.
Use horizontal rules to separate a multi-paragraph contribution from other contributions. Alternative view:
use a horizontal rule to indicate a change of topic, not of speaker. This keeps threads together, making it easier to Refactor By Extracting To Page.
Use inline comments [inside square brackets like this,] for very short editorial comments. Consider rewriting the paragraph to make the addition unnecessary.
Use Unsigned comments that become part of the flow of the page. Other than being offset from signed contributions, unsigned work should blend seamlessly with the page as a whole.
Delimit subject
Use emphasized subtitles, when the topic of conversation changes ,so that readers can pick out the parts that they are interested in.
Move comments to a different page, if the subject is inconsistent with the title of the page. Try to find an existing page that's appropriate instead of creating new ones. Include a link to it if appropriate.
Write to the future reader:
This site has 100 readers for every writer. Compose and organize thoughts for the reader's benefit.
Gentle backlink:
When one page spawns another it is good practice to write a sentence or two of explanation at the beginning of the new page that cites the old. Use italics when the introduction is tangential to the page as a whole.
Remove inappropriate material:
When you see something that clearly does not belong on Wiki just delete it. This is about as strong a statement as you can make on Wiki.
Index using categories:
Don't create static index pages that must be updated each time a new page is created that belongs to that index. Instead, use a category so that indexes can be dynamically created and always kept current. If an appropriate category does not exist for the refactored page, create a new one only if there will be other pages referencing the new category. See Wiki Categories for more details.
Outline Summary:
Consider using a bulleted list as a summary of major sections that follow on the page, to act as a mini table of contents - most useful for very long pages. Consider using an outline summary as a proforma template for a Tentative Summary for a Thread Mess.
Where are the Tools For Refactoring Wiki? Right behind your eyes and between your ears, your keyboard, and your fingers. Yes, it is a very difficult job, and controversial too.
See original on c2.com 