The opportunities to use online virtual worlds for educational purposes and to conduct business are growing rapidly. Small and large companies are seeing how they can expand their reach and the ability to sell products and raise awareness of their company through this online social networking medium. Offering classes and conducting meetings is both functional and interesting for their employees. In 2007, IBM saved $10 million dollars in travel and meeting expenses by conducting staff meetings and trainings via the virtual world Second Life.
Abraham Paiss & Associates helps businesses establish a presence on Second Life through the interactive sustainable village Etopia Island. Read about recent events on Etopia Island on their blog. APA Senior Principal Zev Paiss regularly teaches classes and facilitates discussions on a variety of sustainability topics, and provides meeting space for individuals and companies from all over the world on Etopia Island. (Approximately 65 percent of Second Life visitors are outside of North America.)
