Lazar, Jonathan, and Jenny Preece. "Classification schema for online communities." AMCIS 1998 Proceedings (1998): 30.

This paper explores the classification of online communities based on four key characteristics: attributes, supporting software, relationship to physical communities, and the sociological concept of boundedness. By examining various classification schemas, the study aims to highlight similarities among online communities that can inform their design, management, and the selection of appropriate research methodologies. The classification schema presented offers insights into improving the development and structure of online communities across different domains.