Sky News is going to provide virtual reports on Second Life.
Sky News is partnering with video-sharing site, SkyCast to launch a search for reporters on Second
Life to cover the 3D community. Members of Second Life will be encouraged to create video reports of news and events that are relevant to the virtual world and submit it onto Skycast's site. The best entries will then be shown on the Sky News website. The search is called a "reporters' challenge." Those wishing to take part are required to collect a Sky News microphone from Sky's virtual newsroom and submit a two-minute piece by Sep 30.
The move follows a recent announcement by Media production firm LivePlanet, that it is launching a subsidiary company, Virtual Worlds Productions, which will function as a news publisher exclusively covering events in online virtual worlds. Whilst many companies and institutions, including recruiters, universities and big brands, are rushing to acquire a plot of virtual land, business analyst group Gartner is warning companies about diving into virtual worlds as a new business tool, saying that many firms are unaware of the security and reputation risks involved.
However this sounds a good way to engage with Second Life. Sky is thinking how it can enhance the user experience rather than simply putting up advertising billboards. Good to see a brand creatively embracing a new medium in a positive way.
