What are Makerspaces, Hackerspaces, and Fab Labs?

Abstract

Makerspaces, hackerspaces, and fab labs each developed independently but have appeared to converge towards a similar structure and use. Each can be characterized as a community workshop where members share access to tools in order to produce physical goods. At present, researchers are divided on whether to treat the three concepts as distinct or synonymous, meaning that clarification is needed for research to move forward. The present analysis uses content analysis on the self-definitions of makerspaces, hackerspaces, and fab labs to locate similarities and differences between the three organization types. The results are clear that the three are substantially similar, although differences are explored.

Keywords: Makerspace, Maker Movement, Hackerspace, Fab Lab