Digital badges can be interesting when the effort and competition make them valuable. Likewise, optional electronic check-in services are best when you get something of value in return (going beyond the proof that you checked-in). Perhaps, it is for this reason that I just haven’t been able to get into virtual gift giving and collection. But add some automation and simple engagement to make these gifts more dynamic, and I start to see the point. Gowalla and Nike seem to be taking this idea in interesting directions. I especially like the Gowalla feature that allows users to contribute to an item’s history before dropping it for someone else to find, and the possibilities for live sporting events.
In addition to other findings this month, which are continuations of previous subjects and included further below, the Chicago White Sox have created a virtual tour specifically targeted at its corporate partnerships for U.S. Cellular Field that is worth sharing. [Shameless plug: EYEPLY can merge physical and digital infrastructures, enhancing in-venue media networks using mobile augmented reality, advanced pointing search, and other location-based platforms. Check it out!]
Virtual Good Placements, Pick-ups, and Contributed History
Partner-Targeted Virtual Venue Tour
Chicago White Sox Corporate Partnerships
More Stunts, Gesture Interface, and Crowdsourcing
Nike and CityScape Media “Can You Beat Kim?”
