Certified Internet Web (CIW) Professional Practice Exam

What does the term "crowdsourcing" refer to in an online context?

1. Collaborating on team projects

2. Collecting opinions through surveys

3. Outsourcing creative tasks to the public

4. Creating social connections online

The correct answer is: Outsourcing creative tasks to the public

The term "crowdsourcing" in an online context specifically refers to outsourcing creative tasks or content creation to the general public, often leveraging the skills, knowledge, or experiences of a large group of people. This concept has gained traction with the rise of the internet and social media platforms, allowing individuals and organizations to tap into a diverse source of ideas and solutions that they may not have access to otherwise. In practice, crowdsourcing can involve activities such as soliciting design ideas, seeking feedback on products, or gathering creative contributions from a broad audience. For example, a company might launch a contest inviting users to submit logo designs or advertising slogans, thus enlisting the public’s creativity in a way that is both cost-effective and capable of generating innovative outcomes. The other options relate to different aspects of online interaction but do not accurately capture the essence of what crowdsourcing entails. Collaborating on team projects points to focused teamwork but lacks the broader outreach characteristic of crowdsourcing. Collecting opinions through surveys emphasizes data gathering rather than creative engagement. Creating social connections online relates to networking and relationship-building, which, while relevant, does not reflect the specific process of sourcing ideas from the crowd.