Strategy Analytics: Immersive Experiences Driving Virtual Worlds

Business Wire, March 10, 2008

New Report Explores Business Drivers for First Wave of 10 Million Visitors

BOSTON -- Strategy Analytics, a leader in the analysis of digital media user experience, has announced the release of a new report, "Exploring Business Drivers for Virtual Worlds and Emerging Media," which examines the critical success factors and underlying nature of the behaviors responsible for the growing adoption of virtual worlds around the world.

"From wireless operators like Orange and Telefonica to universities around the world, we are seeing a revolution in experimentation as companies attempt to gain loyalty, stickiness, and effectiveness through this new medium," said Harvey Cohen, President of Strategy Analytics.

This report explores:

* the nature of the immersive experience that differentiates it from those offered by other digital media;

* aspects of the virtual world experience that deliver benefits to the user, and how they vary with different experiences intended by the sim sponsors;

* benefits gained by sim sponsors (Belgacom, Dublin, The Gap) when effectively implemented

Through insights gathered in Second Life, this Strategy Analytics report assesses key concepts in the virtual world experience and the potential for competitive business advantages.

"Consumers find virtual worlds a powerful experience for entertainment, education and information when effectively implemented. Whether they are virtually touring town centre Dublin, surfing at the Weather Channel sim, or applying for a job at Belgacom, the experience is immersive and compelling," said Kevin Nolan, Director of the Strategy Analytics Digital Experience Labs.

The report examines the factors transforming the viewing experience of the Web into the immersive experience of virtual worlds, the competition for users' time and drivers for adoption creating the potential for long run growth.

The chart, "Feature/Benefits Value Development," may be seen at www.strategyanalytics.net/default.aspx?mod=PressReleaseViewer&a0=3834

About Strategy Analytics

Strategy Analytics, Inc. - a global research and consulting firm - provides timely insights and strategic business solutions to companies operating at the convergence of information, communications and entertainment technologies. With worldwide headquarters in Boston, MA, and principal offices in England, France and Germany, Strategy Analytics focuses on market opportunities and challenges in the areas of Automotive Electronics & Multimedia, Digital Consumer, Wireless Strategies and Enabling Technologies. For more information, see www.strategyanalytics.com