Look Before You Leap: Issues and Challenges in Managing a Virtual-World Presence

by Anjali Kaushik

Virtual worlds are a hot topic right now. These 3D, interactive Web environments can deliver an immersive experience that is much richer than what we currently experience with the traditional Web. As a result, virtual worlds are emerging as communal places for a wide range of activities, including, of course, highly popular MMORPGs such as World of Warcraft. IT departments in many enterprises are now being asked to explore how their organizations can embrace virtual worlds and create, deploy, regulate, and monitor these new applications. But do virtual worlds offer any real business value, or are they only good for fun and games?

In this issue of Cutter IT Journal, we will investigate this intriguing new space in cyberspace. You’ll discover how IBM’s Virtual Business Center went from a cutesy attention getter (virtual cappuccino, anyone?) to a full-fledged technology showcase that effectively, and cost-effectively, demonstrates the company’s most complex enterprise solutions to prospective clients. You’ll also hear about the dark side of virtual worlds — avatar harassment, phishing attacks, even money laundering — and what your organization can do to manage the risks. Is it time for you to take the virtual plunge? Join us and find out!