Crowdsourcing as a Model for Problem Solving

TLDR

Crowdsourcing is an online, distributed problem‑solving and production model that has emerged recently, exemplified by platforms such as Threadless, iStockphoto, InnoCentive, the Goldcorp Challenge, and user‑generated advertising contests. The article introduces crowdsourcing, distinguishes it from open‑source production, explores its potential to harness innovators and serve non‑profit sectors, and proposes a research agenda. The article outlines crowdsourcing’s theoretical foundations and exemplar cases while distinguishing it from open‑source production.

Abstract

Crowdsourcing is an online, distributed problem-solving and production model that has emerged in recent years. Notable examples of the model include Threadless, iStockphoto, InnoCentive, the Goldcorp Challenge, and user-generated advertising contests. This article provides an introduction to crowdsourcing, both its theoretical grounding and exemplar cases, taking care to distinguish crowdsourcing from open source production. This article also explores the possibilities for the model, its potential to exploit a crowd of innovators, and its potential for use beyond forprofit sectors. Finally, this article proposes an agenda for research into crowdsourcing.