When people mention "virtual world," most people think of online or virtual games. However, it is also a term used by surgeons to operate in dangerous or hard-to-reach places in the body. Virtual world technology may be used for many applications. There are many terms and acronyms used in the virtual world that can confuse new users of the software. Understanding these terms allows you to more easily find and use the appropriate software.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Avatar

An avatar is an icon or image a person uses to represent himself or herself in the virtual world. An avatar can be a detailed movable animated person or animal, or a simple clip art picture, depending on the software you use.

I recommend: WiseGEEK has an article that helps you understand what an avatar is.

External application

An external application is a small application or program that works inside the framework of the Internet browser but has to have certain software or information downloaded to function properly.

I recommend: Microsoft explains external applications in detail.

Lightweight

In the virtual world, 'lightweight' describes software that runs on older computers or computers with less memory. Lightweight software generally consists of smaller files or programs that use less of your computer's resources than regular software.

I recommend: Find more information about lightweight software at Business Wire.

MMO

MMO, or MMOG, is a term used in the virtual world that refers to 'massive multiplayer online.' This is also used as MMORPG, which means massive multiplayer online role playing game.

I recommend: PCMag provides more information about MMOGs. Learn more about MMORPGs at Knowledge Rush.

Middleware

Middleware is computer software that joins software and applications. Middleware allows two or more computers to use the same software at the same time. It also runs a lot of computer processes at once across the network.

I recommend: Read a detailed article about what middleware is and how it works at ObjectWeb.

Haptics

Haptics is the experience of having touch-back or visceral sensations from a virtual world environment. The sensors in haptics work with controllers, joysticks and touchscreens. With haptics, the user is sent vibrations or alerts through the control to make them react more realistically.

I recommend: Immersion has information about what haptics is and how it works. Read more information about haptics at WebMediaBrands.

The virtual environment is no longer a place just for Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPG or MMO). Today, there are tools for doctors to use virtual hands and instruments connected to robots that work with patients. The goal is to lessen the day-to-day doctor exposure to radiation. In fact, there are tools for almost every industry to build models or reality before major real-life expenses for a project.

Of course, games are still a big industry. Children’s virtual games and communities are online. Big business has moved in, like IBM, Toyota and DELL. They own virtual buildings and do actual business in the virtual world. Consider the following when investing in the virtual world.

1. Go to virtual sites to do business or to create avatars for chatting.

2. Play MMO virtual games online.

3. Use the virtual environment for industry tools and streamlining.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use a virtual web site for business and fun

Virtual websites can be the alter ego of businesses where real-money transactions and interactions take place. Chat room users create avatar characters to represent themselves.

I recommend: At Second Life, real business transactions in big dollars take place. Weighty matters involving big companies and decisions take place every day on Second Life. If you decide to join the community, treat it like a real business decision. At There, you can create an avatar as well. You can hang out, chat and do business on this site. At imvu, you can buy tools to make a virtual chat room yourself.

Build your own online-world MMO or introduce your children to the virtual world

MMOs are quite popular among some people. You can even introduce your children to computer technology through online games.

I recommend: Build your own virtual-online MMO with HeroEngine software tools. Sign your kids up for Secure Fantage for those rainy days when they can’t get out and play. This is a virtual website for kids.

Look at virtual world tools for all kinds of industries

Doctors use virtual tools to ease stressful jobs. Other companies are offering virtual applications for city planners and engineers of all kinds.

I recommend: Immersion offers virtual tools to the medical field. SENSICS is an innovative company making practical, accessible virtual applications available to all kinds of industries. These are user-friendly and cost-effective tools. WorldViz has created a turnkey solution to train first responders for disaster situations. A local university hospital commissioned this company to create a simulation program for virtual training in an immersion environment.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  It looks like fun and games, but set up a virtual site for your business as you would any other business decision in your company. Work with a business consultant to make sure you put your money to its best use.