"The Uses of Virtual Worlds in Commerce"
The world is changing from a conglomeration of individual nations spread around the globe to a world that is growing smaller and smaller through increased world trade and near instant communication. The corporate world has stepped across the oceans and looks to appeal to a broader audience. An example of this can be seen in the emergence of the virtual world "Second Life." They already boast 2.7 million US dollars per month through their partnership with companies like Coca Cola and McDonalds. Companies like these could use the emerging virtual worlds to test products online or solely devote their target audience to the virtual marketplace. It seems foolish to guess that the commercial world will not take advantage of the virtual world's gowing popularity and dynamic success in our chaning world.
Another interesting facet to the changing commercial world and virtual reality is the effect of geolocation. "Google Earth" will likely find its way into the virtual business realm as a way to add authenticity to business ventures in the virtual world. A company from Japan will precisely be able to locate the American business with which they are negotiating. The possibilities of the virtual world and business will not be able to surpass physical items like food products but will increase communication and productivity immensely. Now there is a more intimate alternative to the phone call, however the virtual world will never replace face to face interactions.