For me virtual reality, at least up until now, was something that exists only in fiction books, expensive Hollywood productions or most recently in the form of popular computer games that drive teenagers mad.
What I would have never thought though is that I would be discussing about virtual reality in a PR context. Well, what can I say…never say never, and always be open for the unexpected!
However, for IT professionals or any PR practitioner who considers him self a tech- savvy the idea of virtual reality and particularly Second Life is not at all new. In fact, from the little research I did, I think that Second Life is here to stay and stay for good.
Professionals nowadays discuss constantly about the impact of and how to capitalize on new technologies whether it is about social networking, podcasting, RSS or any of the so-called Web 2.0, or even for some Web 3.0 platforms, and how these affect communication. But, what’s next? Which do you think would be the future of the Web in the years to come? Paul Anderson, Technical Director of Intelligent Content Ltd., says that the "next step in the development of the Web is advanced 3D graphics...and Second Life is currently the easiest way to explore the implications of 3-D at an early stage."
From a PR perspective Second Life also offers great opportunities for businesses and institutions to capitalize on. Product development and testing, building brand awareness, advertising, product placement, market research are some of the aspects that Second Life can provide.
Some of the innovative businesses that are starting to explore the potential of this world are Adidas, Nissan, Reebok, Reuters, and CNET Networks.
Check out the 'reality' of Second Life...
More on Second Life
Reuters Second Life
Apple's Second Life
Business Week
The Coming Virtual Web
Big Spenders of Second Life
