Web-based collaboration for terminology application: ICNP C-space.

The purpose of this paper is to describe the ongoing evolution of a nursing terminology that involves users in all aspects of the terminology lifecycle. A terminology will not succeed until and unless it benefits users and contributes to improved client outcomes at the point of care. Since the release of ICNP®Version 1 in 2005, users have been necessary partners in research and development, dissemination and education, and, to some extent, in terminology maintenance and operations. ICNP C-Space was launched in 2008 as a platform for collaboration among users and the ICNP team. C-Space applications include, but are not limited to, the ICNP browser, a multi-lingual browser, catalogue development pages, and group discussion pages. Future uses may include work related to ICN research and networks. C-Space adds value to ICNP, ICN, and nursing worldwide by ensuring that terminology users can contribute their expertise to finding workable solutions and developing important products related to ICNP.