A relatively simple way to improve interconnectedness among
community members is to develop a database that identifies each
community member’s areas of expertise. For example, a searchable
database designed around key words — indicating, for example,
such subject areas as “China,” “economic forecasting,” or
“nuclear weapons” — can allow community members to swiftly
identify appropriate experts. To ease the tension of contacting
an unknown colleague, we also suggest that database profiles
include some personal information. Knowing that the person
you’re contacting shares your hobby or alma mater can help start
a conversation that might otherwise never happen. Such databases
are worth the small investment of time they require, but no
purely technological solution will be enough to spark effective
collaboration among community members. Many people are reluctant
to ask colleagues whom they don’t know personally for help, even
within the same organization, and for a wide range of reasons:
Will they think I’m stupi