• Cross-Socialization

    Posted on November 30th, 2006 by and currently 4 commenting.

    The December/January issue of Fast Company has a very intriguing piece entitled The Wisdom of Gamers by Lucas Conley. It’s intriguing because it touches on the new strategy that other industries are using to tap into the collective problem-solving skills in the gaming community. Here’s my favorite part:

    Stanford’s Byron Reeves, using video clips of medical samples, had players of Star Wars Galaxies diagnose cancer to advance their standing as “doctors.” After 20 hours of training, players got it right 60% as often as a pathologist; 35 of the best players, on average, actually beat the pro.

    Brilliant. Engaging a community on their own terms to help solve problems for the greater good. The lesson here is to not limit yourself with some sort of silo mentality when dealing with a specific community. Thinking laterally not only could have benefits outside of what that community is used to, but by engaging them on their level, it gives them a greater sense of being as well.

    Can you say ‘win-win?’

  • Gammo

    Now we just need to find the study drawing parallels between playing UT2K4 and increased productivity in the workplace.

  • http://i-never-knew-it-could-be-like-this.blogspot.com/ msugal86

    this is just a pet peeve of mine, but pieces are “titled” not “entitled”.

  • http://brainsonfire.com Spike

    Sorry about that, msu. Blame it on the Dallas Independent School System. That always seems to work for me!

  • http://brandautopsy.typepad.com/ johnmoore (from Brand Autopsy)

    DISD, eh? The Richardson Independent School District rulz!

    Go Richardson High School Eagles! Go Westwood Jr. High Warriors! Go Spring Creek Elementary Golden Eagles! I am so into supporting my RISD!!!!!!!!!!!!