Online Encyclopedias and Generative Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities (case of the Encyclopedia of Modern Ukraine)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15407/scine21.02.064Keywords:
encyclopedias, encyclopedic content, search engines, Google search engines, ChatGPT, large language modelsAbstract
Introduction. Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed numerous fields, presenting both
opportunities and challenges. For the encyclopedia industry, this shift not only raises questions about potential
applications but also necessitates adaptation to societal changes accompanying its widespread adoption.
Problem Statement. Online encyclopedias primarily depend on search engines, such as Google, for traffic.
Recent announcements from Google LLC regarding the integration of generative AI into its search capabilities
suggest significant changes in how users access information. These advancements may decrease website traffic, as users could find answers directly within search results without visiting the original sources.
Purpose. To identify and analyze the challenges confronting the encyclopedia industry in the era of generative AI.
Materials and Methods. The study has utilized quick experiments to evaluate the capacity of generative AI
(e.g., ChatGPT) to perform tasks typical of encyclopedia editorial workflows. It has also analyzed traffic data
from the academic Encyclopedia of Modern Ukraine website. Additionally, descriptive methods and statistical
analyses have been employed.
Results. Generative AI has demonstrated its ability to automate various editorial tasks and enhance the quality of encyclopedia articles. However, the integration of AI-generated answers within global search engines has
presented a critical challenge: as generative AI becomes more prominent, reliance on expert-authored encyclopedic content may diminish, potentially reducing the audience for traditional encyclopedic resources.
Conclusions. Generative AI represents an essential tool for the future of the encyclopedia industry. However,
the integration of AI-driven search capabilities, particularly by platforms like Google, poses a risk to online encyclopedia traffic and the broader reliance on expert-generated content. Strategic adaptations will be necessary to
address these emerging challenges.
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