Introduction

Mention the word “gamification” to someone who’s never heard the term and they’re likely to think it’s about playing games. On the contrary, gamification is all about the use of game-based mechanics in non-game settings.

Wikipedia defines it this way: “the use of game thinking and game mechanics to engage users in solving problems. Gamification is used in applications and processes to improve user engagement, return on investment, data quality, timeliness, and learning.”

Pillars of Gamification

Gamification is built on the following pillars:

1. Motivation: encourage users to perform desired activities by way of points, status, recognition, etc.
2. Ability: ensure that challenges are interesting, yet within reach. If it’s too difficult to achieve, many users will decide not to even try.
3. Triggers: users need the cues, incentives or reminders to take action.

Applying Gamification in Online Communities

Within online communities, gamification can be an effective mechanism for achieving higher levels of involvement and engagement in these activities:

1. Crowdsourcing
2. Recommendations
3. Support
4. Q&A

Gamification Best Practices

Keep the following practices in mind when implementing gamification:

1. Know your users
2. Keep it fresh
3. Do not disturb
4. Leaderboard is not the focus
5. Avoid negative connotations

Our Gamification Infographic

We recently published an infographic on gamification. Have a look!