Introduction to Adding Articles in a New Wikipedia Language

Adding articles to a new Wikipedia language is a rewarding endeavor, but it requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines. In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to create a new language version of Wikipedia, including finding a suitable platform, securing a unique language code, and establishing a community of contributors.

Choosing a Wiki Hosting Platform

Not all platforms are created equal when it comes to setting up a new language version of Wikipedia. Here are a few options you can consider:

Wikia: This platform offers free wikis and might be a good option if you are just starting out. However, it is important to note that Wikia was acquired by Fandom and may no longer support user-generated content for new communities. It is advisable to check the current status on their website. MediaWiki: This is the open-source software used by Wikipedia, and it can be downloaded and installed on your own server. This gives you full control over your wiki's features, name, and logo. However, setting up MediaWiki requires technical expertise and resources.

It is crucial to research these options thoroughly and choose one that aligns with your goals and capabilities.

Determining Your Language's Eligibility

Before proceeding with creating a new language version of Wikipedia, you need to verify the eligibility of the language. The Ethnologue is a reliable resource for determining whether your language is recognized and has a unique language code. This code will be essential for creating your new Wikipedia page.

Petitioning for a New Language on Wikipedia

If your language meets the criteria and you have a community of potential contributors, you can petition for a new language version on Wikipedia. Here are the steps:

Visit the Requests for new languages page: The official page on Wikipedia to request the creation of a new language version. Fill out the form and submit it, providing detailed information about your language and community. Create an Incubator Project: Once your request is approved, go to the Wikipedia Incubator, where you can create a project for your new language. This will serve as a testing ground for articles and content localization. Localize Data: You will receive a list of data that needs to be localized into your language. This includes messages, templates, and other system elements. Make sure to follow the guidelines provided by the Wikimedia community to ensure consistency and accuracy.

Building a Community of Editors

Creating a successful new language version of Wikipedia depends on the active participation of a community of editors. Here are some strategies to help you build and maintain this community:

Engage Potential Contributors: Reach out to linguists, academics, and native speakers who are interested in contributing to your project. Offer them incentives such as recognition in the early stages of the project and opportunities to shape the direction of the wiki. Harness Collaboration Tools: Utilize tools such as talk pages, discussion forums, and collaboration software to keep your community engaged and informed. Encourage regular meetings and discussions to address any issues or suggestions. Maintain Consistency and Quality: Ensure that your community follows best practices and maintains high standards for content quality. This will help attract more contributors and ensure the long-term success of your wiki.

Conclusion

Adding articles to a new Wikipedia language is a complex but exciting process that requires careful planning and dedication from your community of contributors. By following the steps outlined in this article and leveraging the right tools and resources, you can create a valuable and authentic new version of Wikipedia that reflects the unique cultural and linguistic heritage of your community.

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