Why personal reputation matters in virtual knowledge sharing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an argument for implementing a reputation system into virtual knowledge sharing programs. Design/methodology/approach – The author formulates opinions based on workplace realities, professional insights and personal experience. Findings – To help knowledge workers be more generous with their insights and information in a virtual knowledge sharing platform, personal reputation must be examined, assessed, and leveraged as part of the intrinsic value of the program. Practical implications – Several practical implications emerge in this article: knowledge sharing should be virtual; it should occur outside of functional boundaries; systems should include reputation assessments; power should be in the hands of the individual participants; and no monetary incentive should be given to participate. Originality/value – The ideas and methods for implementing a reputation system are new. Readers will discover the latest trend emerging in the area of virtual knowledge sharing and collaborative learning.