ISN Virtual Worlds introduced V-Learning today at Virtual Worlds London. V-Learning is solution tying together traditional Web-based e-learning and the Second Life Grid, combining 2D user and course management tools, tracking systems, collaboration and media sharing tools, and testing with 3D options in the virtual world for VoIP collaboration, customized environments, and more for simulation, training, and teaching.
"We're targeting mainly large companies who have large HR departments, for instance, who often need to train their employees," explained CEO Mattia Crespi. "Another good application of it is for big companies with large salesforces spread out over the territory. It would be useful to use the V-Learning tool for training. You can re-create products and also simulate processes and services. With the platform to do learning, you can make good use of it. You really need to give practical solutions to companies. If you go to them with the precise solution that solves the problem and cut costs, like virtualizing some activities, then you provide something interesting to them."
The relationship with Linden Lab is developing, says Crespi, but virtual world developer has expressed interest in the V-Learning solution. The application is being shown off at Linden's first-floor booth at Virtual Worlds London. With Linden's increased interest in bringing in organizations to Second Life for enterprise-level use, the collaboration, along with the partnership with Rivers Run Red for Immersive Workspaces (formally announced today), makes sense.
It seems to be appealing to businesses as well.
"We are currently mainly working with the Italians. We're presenting the solution in London because we are also looking for partners to distribute elsewhere, mainly in the US, but also Europe and Asia," said Crespi. "We are currently talking to large banks and universities in Italy. I cannot mention names because the projects haven't started, but a number of large companies have expressed interest."
Users can select from several modules for V-Learning, ranging from just the traditional Web-based tool, which licenses for up to 1000 users at €10,000 or, on a per month basis, up to 100 users at €250/month. If businesses want a fully customized experience in Second Life, costs run at approximately €30,000. Crespi says ISN's current projects are in the €40,000 to €45,000 range.
Significantly, the V-Learning Web tools can work with any 3D environment, explained Crespi. Potentially it could be used as a training solution elsewhere, then. For now, though, he says the company is sticking with Linden Lab.
"First of all, I believe in the Second Life architecture and Linden Lab's vision as they are making the Grid grow," explained Crespi. "The actual learning platform, the Web part, could be integrated with any 3D virtual world. It's just a matter of adapting to another platform. We mainly work and develop on the SL Grid and chose to stick with Linden Lab. It's difficult to say now what the platform of the future will be, but we think Linden Lab is on the right track. We are sure that Linden Lab will develop all the functions needed by large companies that maybe aren't yet there. It's just really sharing and believing the vision they have."
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