Purpose: If collaboration and knowledge sharing lie at the core of providing added-value to either services or products can we improve this process? The purpose of this paper is to suggest that it can be improved and this lies in how we develop the systems that support collaboration and knowledge sharing. This can be achieved within the development process, focusing on the knowledge sharers and developing from within. Design/methodology/approach: The underpinning has been the examination of traditional system development methodologies, the emergence of social computing and its underlying approaches and ethos. The approach draws upon knowledge management concepts, overlaid onto the purpose and motivation for knowledge sharing. Findings: The paper continues the premise that better systems are derived from fully engaging with the systems users. Although existing methodologies have this at their heart, the systems produced still fall short. The argument presents how developing systems from within can improve the likelihood of success through the adoption of social computing practices. It shows that the involvement of those expected to collaborate or share through the proposed system in the development process, enhances the collaborative relationships and increases the probability of sharing through engagement and empowerment. Originality/value: This paper frames how a known problem in systems development and the greater sensitivity of knowledge management systems may be overcome. It highlights how the collaborative and inclusive nature of social computing practice can serve to bridge the sociotechnical divide through the reduction of barriers and providing alternative bridges.