Question and answer system
Q&A Software is online software used by users to ask and/or then answer questions. Q&A software is frequently integrated by large and specialist corporations and tends to be implemented as a community. By doing this, users in similar fields can discuss questions and provide answers to common and specialist questions.
There are numerous examples of Q&A Software in both Open Source and SaaS formats, including Qhub, OSQA and Stack Exchange. Standalone Q&A communities such as Quora or Yahoo! Answers aren’t traditionally in either category while operating in the Q&A market.[1]
Background
Since the Internet became increasingly popular, many Q&A sites have begun to offer a Q&A solution. Some of these sites such as Quora are provided as a community, but their software is not open to commercial use. Other examples of sites similar to this include Yahoo Answers.
The Q&A Software industry is split into two main sectors, SaaS solutions and Open Source software. Each has it’s own advantages and disadvantages, many of which vary depending on whether the software is SaaS or Open Source.
Mechanics
Q&A Software is often provided to corporate and specialist sites, so the site and its users can be asked questions and then provide experts answers to them. It is often the ideal place to ask a given question, when the site will be geared towards a certain industry.
For example if a user wanted to find the answer to a technology question, then a Q&A site specializing in the given tech industry would be a good place to start. Users also benefit from increased knowledge if they regularly answer questions or exchange views with other industry specialists using the website where the software has been implemented.[1]
Notable Providers
OSQA
OSQA is a free, entry-level Q&A system from the makers of AnswerHub, the market-leading professional Q&A platform. OSQA is a great solution for smaller sites with limited needs. Professional users who want custom theming, advanced security, SSO integration or plugin support should look at AnswerHub instead.[1]
Qhub
In general, Qhub resembles a number of Q&A sites, but with a few differences. One of the main features is Qhub lets the user choose between a public, or private community. It can be used by anyone to create their own customized Q&A site to handle visitor questions and answers. Many companies have utilized this as the corporate environment in their FAQ section. Another major feature is that the Qhub platform can be integrated into existing sites, meaning the cost of implementation remains low.
Widgets can also be used, and can plug directly into an existing web site. While the site and platform is predominantly aimed at users looking for a Q&A solution, it has also been used as a basic blogging platform.[2]
The platform does allow users to charge a fee for the answers they provide. Qhub is also a multi device system, meaning it can be used on PC’s and also tablets and smartphones.[3]
StackExchange
Stack Exchange has developed a way for users to create an easy-to-use, active, customizable Q&A community. They strive to live behind their knowledge exchange platform that enables you to run the same software seen on Stack Overflow with the option of code-based customizations for your Q&A websites aesthetics. It seems to be aimed more towards the individual who has learned the basics of CSS and HTML properties.[1]
See Also
References
- ^ a b c d "HOW TO: Set Up a Q&A Website in Minutes – the Best Options Reviewed & Compared". Inspired Mag. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
- ^ "Build your own Q&A site with Qhub". VentureBeat. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
- ^ "Create Your Own Niche Q&A Site With Qhub". MakeUseOf. Retrieved 12 December 2013.