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Crowdsourced Databases: WilhelmScreamDB and the Value of Open, Community-Contributed Catalogs

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Database Debates Crowdsourced Databases:

Meet WilhelmScreamDB, a crowdsourced catalog of every Wilhelm Scream appearance. Anyone can easily add or edit entries, aiming to document each scream with timestamps, YouTube clips, and details for all movies and TV series. [1]

What it is: A fan-built catalog that treats the Wilhelm Scream as data to browse, not just trivia. It aims to be comprehensive across all appearances, with timestamps, direct links to media, and cross-references by film or show. [1]

How it works: Anyone can add or edit entries, and changes are integrated into the growing catalog in real time. This crowdsourced approach mirrors many open data projects, turning fans into curators. [1]

Governance and data quality: The open model invites participation but raises questions about governance, verification, and consistency when compared with centralized repositories. Without clear rules or provenance checks, entries could drift. [1]

Why it matters to fans and researchers: Having a single page with timestamps and media links makes quick browsing and verification easier across films and TV series. It also offers a living dataset that could evolve with new releases or edits. [1]

Open, community-driven catalogs are compelling, but their value will hinge on governance practices and data quality as they scale. Keep an eye on update frequency and community moderation as this catalog grows. [1]

References

[1]
HackerNews

WilhelmScreamDB – A crowdsourced database for every Wilhelm Scream

Public catalog of Wilhelm Scream appearances with timestamps and media links, open to contributions for movies and TV series globally.

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