Wikimedia Foundation announced that the Wikipedia interface has received its first major update in over a decade. The English-language Wikipedia has the update, and so have “In 94% of 318 active languages versions» resource for desktop users.
Just after the 22nd anniversary, the updated interface was released. It improves visibility and usability, and modernizes user interaction with Wikipedia so it’s easier for users to find information, explore it, and share their knowledge.
“The update to the desktop Wikipedia is one of the major improvements we are making to help people access the world’s knowledge, in support of our mission of making knowledge freely and equitably accessible to every person on the planet, no matter where they are. Where they live and where they come fromSelena Deckelmann is the Director of Products and Technology at Wikimedia Foundation. — These changes make it easier to learn and find out from our volunteers. These features were created with the help of readers and volunteers from around the globe to address the changing needs of our ever-growing audience. They also maintain the simplicity and directness millions have come to trust over the past 22 year..
Many new features have been added to the desktop version update, including:
The new interface does not delete any of the features from the old interface. He instead introduces new tools that will improve the performance and usability of existing websites. This is based on data analysis and user testing, as well as consultations with Wikipedia volunteers editors. In concept development, product development and testing, more than 30 volunteer groups from around the globe participated, from India to Indonesia to Ghana and Argentina. Unfortunately, the Russian language has yet to be included in the above 94%. The Russian-language Wikipedia page, however, is still presented in the old interface as shown in the screenshot below.
Global research and user feedback have further helped shape the improvements. Wikimedia projects have a unique collaborative model that values creating with users, rather than just for them.
Wikimedia Foundation is seeking feedback from users new and old of Wikipedia. It intends to continue to redesign the interface of the service to best suit the needs of a growing global community.