Software developer JotSpot is attempting to take the "nerdiness" out of wikis with the release of a software platform that allows users to share any kind of information, not just text.

JotSpot 2.0 gives users the opportunity to collaborate on all types of information by providing new page types that help them create collaborative calendars, spreadsheets, file repositories, documents and photo galleries.

"Traditional wikis are too nerdy and only offer one type of collaboration. This has been a barrier to the mainstream adoption of wikis," said Joe Kraus, co-founder and chief executive at JotSpot.

"JotSpot has redefined wikis by removing the limitations of traditional wikis and marrying the wiki metaphor with some of the capabilities of Microsoft Office.

"We have combined the familiarity and functionality of desktop applications like Office with the collaborative power and flexibility of wikis so that users can quickly and easily collaborate on all types of information."

JotSpot 2.0 is available as a free hosted service for five users and a maximum of 10 pages.

Charges start at $9.95 per month for 10 users and 100 pages, $24.95 for 25 users and 300 pages, $69.95 for unlimited users and 1,000 pages, and $199.95 for unlimited users and unlimited pages.

"Wiki market evolution is accelerating," said Peter O'Kelly, research director at analyst firm Burton Group's Collaboration and Content Strategies service.

"Incorporating familiar mainstream computing concepts and tools such as spreadsheets, calendars and a variety of document/page templates, and making them readily accessible in the 'wiki way', will lead to widespread wiki adoption in organisations of all types and sizes."