IBM researchers have linked Lotus Sametime, an instant messaging program, with several virtual environments. Called "Sametime 3-D," the project showcases what virtual environments can bring to the future of unified business communications.
With Sametime 3-D users can instant message a colleague and instead of merely chatting with one another, launch into an immersive 3-D environment directly from within the chat session. The program creates a virtual meeting space that can include presentation tools, fully functional avatars (virtual stand-ins) and access to 3-D objects in the avatar's inventory. The virtual meetings can also be recorded as text or video.
"The ability to easily integrate existing communication and collaboration tools in 3-D environments will allow businesses to clearly realize the ROI of virtual environments," said Colin Parris, vice president of Digital Convergence. "Extending the real-time connection between people into a 3-D medium enhances the experience and productivity of teams located across the country or the world."
Learn more:
Made in IBM Labs: IBM Moves Real-Time Communication and Collaboration into 3-D (press release)