Second Life Forums Archive - Help a Journalist - Second Life Case Studies needed

Jax Huskerdu

Registered User

Join date: 28 Jun 2006

Posts: 250

12-08-2006 07:45

From the moment I entered SL, I was blown away with all of the interesting and creative
content! I'm a shopaholic and as such have quickly become very familiar with SL designers and am in awe of several! I'v been to the American Aparel store in world and
frankly find it as dull and lifeless as in RL. Solid Tee after Solid Tee and no imaginaton what so ever. Branding in SL should remain just that...in SL! I live in NYC and work for one of the largest fashion brands in the Real World. The last thing I want to see is RL seeping into my favorite venue for escapism. I'd venture to say that the annoying presence of an H&M billboard or a McDonald drivethru would probably cause my aversion and disgust to carry through into RL. I'd stop shopping there too! Leave games to gamers. "Hey Madison Avenue, stay out of my SL!!! You're most unwelcome!"

bilbo99 Emu

Garrett's No.1 fan

Join date: 27 Oct 2006

Posts: 3,468

12-08-2006 07:48

Thanks John, what you point out with Dell is what is good about the commercial development. What Ishtara points out is the seemingly more popular view however.
I've not got around to visiting any commercial properties (other than SL resident designers) so cannot comment myself, merely reflect on others observations and opinions.
I shall follow developments with interest. It really all seems to hang on whether the big commercial companies get 'personally' involved.

Hmm, a Nissan water feature ..... <rubbing chin>

Kitty Barnett

Registered User

Join date: 10 May 2006

Posts: 5,586

12-08-2006 08:05

From a commercial company's point of view, SL has the one thing that the web currently lacks. If I don't clear my cookies or don't log out, Dell knows I've visited their site before, and whether I've purchased anything before in which case they'd also know name, address, etc; but if I do any of the above, or simply visit them on a friend's computer, they don't know anymore. We can't change our name in SL, we can't change our key, and most of us have far too much time and/or money invested in our avie to simply start anew, so once there's a link between the SL you and RL you, it's there to stay.

And while LL can't just share the information they have linking you from SL to RL, there's no such restriction for other companies. You'll end up buying your computer from the Dell sim, only to find that days later Printers-R-Us drops you a landmark to their sim and an attached note with your RL name saying that they're having a bargain on supplies for the printer that came with your Dell purchase.

There's nothing with that, but it turns SL into a strictly commercial platform, and not a form of entertainment.

ArchTx Edo

Mystic/Artist/Architect

Join date: 13 Feb 2005

Posts: 1,993

12-08-2006 08:09

I do not like being a walking billboard for a company in RL and certainly won't wear someones brand in SL. I avoid products with obvious lables, tags or symbols promoting a particular comany. I choose products to wear based on the quality, style and attractivness of the clothing rather then the brand name.

_____________________

VRchitecture Model Homes at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Shona/60/220/30
http://www.slexchange.com/modules.php?name=Marketplace&MerchantID=2240
http://shop.onrez.com/Archtx_Edo

Latonia Lambert

Registered User

Join date: 24 Jul 2004

Posts: 425

12-08-2006 08:09

I am an unusual woman in that I hate shopping both in RL and SL. So if I want something specific, I have been in world long enough to know where to go - Nonna Hedges is my favourite for wedding or special gowns for example.

In addition, I don't want to buy clothes with RL logos on them and I doubt many do.

Any RL designers coming into SL will have a hard job making the sort of clothes that most want.

Seola Sassoon

NCD owner

Join date: 13 Dec 2005

Posts: 1,036

12-08-2006 08:13

From: Strife Onizuka

I think it's great you are interested in doing research in SL.

The problem is you need to clear all research with Linden Lab first, you can't just come in and start asking questions.

http://secondlife.com/knowledgebase/article.php?id=062

That cannot be legally binding that they cannot write an article, unless a change in ToS states that we are not allowed to fraternize outside of SL or about SL without thier expressed written consent. It's a public platform currently. It'd have to be similiar to an NDA and since SL isn't in beta... well it's not supposed to be anyways, that wouldn't go over real well. Not to mention kill off any and all 3rd party ezines about SL like the Herald.

As for the little known hometown designers, that really all depends on how they come in. If they carefully either select the right person or do it themselves to recreate thier best fashions that appeal to SL consumers, more power to them, same with a large company for me.

IF the girl down the street creates blah clothes, then the sales will be blah for both RL and SL. If that girl down the street creates innovate and sexy or unique designs, both RL and SL sales could rocket. It's not only about product but embracing SL as a business and not as a sink for publicity.

_____________________

A severed foot is the ultimate stocking stuffer. - Mitch Hedburg

I saw a commercial for an above-ground pool. It was thirty seconds long. You know why? Because that's the maximum amount of time you can depict yourself having fun in an above-ground pool - M.H.

You know, I'm sick of following my dreams, man. I'm just going to ask where they're going and hook up with 'em later. - M.H.

Jax Huskerdu

Registered User

Join date: 28 Jun 2006

Posts: 250

12-08-2006 08:41

From: Shep Korvin

My own thoughts:

3. I don't really imagine that the skills required for designing avatar clothing, and the skills required for designing real-life clothing, are particularly closely-entwined. OK, being able to design neat SL clothing might be a good insight into general creative ability... but designing nice SL clothing is as much about understanding the technical curvature/texture-mapping limitations of SL avatars and being able to convincingly draw creases, shadows and folds as anything else... I run one of the most successful clothing brands in SL (judging from my turnover figures), but wouldn't have the *first idea* about designing clothing for real-life. I'm a graphics geek, not a seamstress.

Very true Shep!
I do have RL design experience and majored in Fashion Design. Let me attest that this is truly a different world! I have a small shop in Sokri and currently sell boots and furniture. I'm only (been in SL since late June 06) just at a point that I feel my goods are
of a high enough quality to sell to others, what with texture matching, subtle blending of shapes, etc. I've created a few clothing pieces so far, but I'm a seamstress, not a grapics geek! lol I'll be a better geek soon, but still have a lot to learn before I put my clothing textures out there. I doubt that RL companies will be putting in 10 to 14 hr marathon SL sessions like I did as a noob to learn all the the ins and outs of being a pixel designer.

Another point:
Living in NYC and traveling around the world as I do, I think it's fun to bring some of the trends I see into SL, (my friends from Vogue and Bazaar were actually V. impressed with my boots at my last coctail party) but what RL companies probably won't realize is the degree in which you have to exaggerate object to make certain details stand out in the same way the do here (ie. my heels are 30 to 50 per cent higher than the item that inspired this season's last (shoe shape) for me. I also have to jazz up the detail a bit more. Simple sells in RL, but in SL it just looks like you didn't give it your all.

Thanks to all you geeks out there who made me who helped to make me the hottie that I am.

Much love and respect!
Jax

BTW Shep, would love to pick your brain a bit as far as texturing goes. Mind if I IM you in world sometime for a quick meet?

Gillian Waldman

Buttercup

Join date: 1 Oct 2006

Posts: 697

12-08-2006 08:44

From: Shep Korvin

My own thoughts:

1. At the present time, most people in SL tend to dress *way* more outrageously and exhibitionistically than they would ever dream of doing in reality...

hehe - that's funny because I might be opposite of most female AVs on SL. I definitely don't wear the risque stuff that apparently sells so well (i.e. short skirts, thigh high boots, latex etc.)...I stick to things that are girly and flirty

No fantasies for me LOL.

Jax Huskerdu

Registered User

Join date: 28 Jun 2006

Posts: 250

Look for me in game

12-08-2006 09:57

From: Rachy Richez

Hi all,
If anyone is an SL fashion owner it'd be great to speak to them too.
See below for my official spiel on the subject.
Do please please get in touch. Message me, or send me an email to [email]rachel.arthur@btinternet.com[/email].
Many thanks!
Rach
aka. Rachy Richez

Rach,
If your in world this weekend, IM me. You can swing by my shop, and if you'd like, I'd be happy to run you through a few a my favorites in the game. Just let me know and I'll organise a tour for you 1st. lol

Carl Metropolitan

Registered User

Join date: 7 Jul 2005

Posts: 1,031

12-08-2006 11:47

From: Rachy Richez

In particular it is about the presence of RL fashion brands, and whether people want them here or not.

I have very low awareness of RL fashion brands in SL. I'd heard of American Apparel, but that was it. On the other hand I can name off a dozen SL desginers--and I'm a guy

Argus Collingwood

Totally Tintable

Join date: 5 Dec 2005

Posts: 600

12-08-2006 12:17

From: Rachy Richez

On an extra note... would you mind emailing me a pic of your SL self? It'd be amazing to put a picture of you beside your comments, I will email you in return a copy of the article once it has been completed.

I have much better photos in-game. IM me in-game and I'll send you a few and perhaps we can visit some of my favorite designers stores.

John Horner

Registered User

Join date: 27 Jun 2006

Posts: 626

12-08-2006 12:26

Ishtara Rothschild you made a comment on another thread yesterday about accommodating somebody in what you called your little Second Life novelty shop. I thought that so called solution was quite elegant and respecting your intelligence, having debated with you from time to time on these BBs, and having some time to spare I looked your "little" business up in world..........................

I think that as the Dell business does represent a quite acceptable use of the inter-activity of the Second Life platform, your Second Life business could, if duplicated in first life, make you a multi millionaire.

The two oldest businesses in the world, first and second. I actually do the other side of the same coin (one of the two). Lets see how it goes, look me up in world.

Regards

John

Help a Journalist - Second Life Case Studies needed
Jax Huskerdu Registered User Join date: 28 Jun 2006 Posts: 250	12-08-2006 07:45 From the moment I entered SL, I was blown away with all of the interesting and creative content! I'm a shopaholic and as such have quickly become very familiar with SL designers and am in awe of several! I'v been to the American Aparel store in world and frankly find it as dull and lifeless as in RL. Solid Tee after Solid Tee and no imaginaton what so ever. Branding in SL should remain just that...in SL! I live in NYC and work for one of the largest fashion brands in the Real World. The last thing I want to see is RL seeping into my favorite venue for escapism. I'd venture to say that the annoying presence of an H&M billboard or a McDonald drivethru would probably cause my aversion and disgust to carry through into RL. I'd stop shopping there too! Leave games to gamers. "Hey Madison Avenue, stay out of my SL!!! You're most unwelcome!"
bilbo99 Emu Garrett's No.1 fan Join date: 27 Oct 2006 Posts: 3,468	12-08-2006 07:48 Thanks John, what you point out with Dell is what is good about the commercial development. What Ishtara points out is the seemingly more popular view however. I've not got around to visiting any commercial properties (other than SL resident designers) so cannot comment myself, merely reflect on others observations and opinions. I shall follow developments with interest. It really all seems to hang on whether the big commercial companies get 'personally' involved. Hmm, a Nissan water feature ..... <rubbing chin>
Kitty Barnett Registered User Join date: 10 May 2006 Posts: 5,586	12-08-2006 08:05 From a commercial company's point of view, SL has the one thing that the web currently lacks. If I don't clear my cookies or don't log out, Dell knows I've visited their site before, and whether I've purchased anything before in which case they'd also know name, address, etc; but if I do any of the above, or simply visit them on a friend's computer, they don't know anymore. We can't change our name in SL, we can't change our key, and most of us have far too much time and/or money invested in our avie to simply start anew, so once there's a link between the SL you and RL you, it's there to stay. And while LL can't just share the information they have linking you from SL to RL, there's no such restriction for other companies. You'll end up buying your computer from the Dell sim, only to find that days later Printers-R-Us drops you a landmark to their sim and an attached note with your RL name saying that they're having a bargain on supplies for the printer that came with your Dell purchase. There's nothing with that, but it turns SL into a strictly commercial platform, and not a form of entertainment.
ArchTx Edo Mystic/Artist/Architect Join date: 13 Feb 2005 Posts: 1,993	12-08-2006 08:09 I do not like being a walking billboard for a company in RL and certainly won't wear someones brand in SL. I avoid products with obvious lables, tags or symbols promoting a particular comany. I choose products to wear based on the quality, style and attractivness of the clothing rather then the brand name. _____________________ VRchitecture Model Homes at http://slurl.com/secondlife/Shona/60/220/30 http://www.slexchange.com/modules.php?name=Marketplace&MerchantID=2240 http://shop.onrez.com/Archtx_Edo
Latonia Lambert Registered User Join date: 24 Jul 2004 Posts: 425	12-08-2006 08:09 I am an unusual woman in that I hate shopping both in RL and SL. So if I want something specific, I have been in world long enough to know where to go - Nonna Hedges is my favourite for wedding or special gowns for example. In addition, I don't want to buy clothes with RL logos on them and I doubt many do. Any RL designers coming into SL will have a hard job making the sort of clothes that most want.
Seola Sassoon NCD owner Join date: 13 Dec 2005 Posts: 1,036	12-08-2006 08:13 From: Strife Onizuka I think it's great you are interested in doing research in SL. The problem is you need to clear all research with Linden Lab first, you can't just come in and start asking questions. http://secondlife.com/knowledgebase/article.php?id=062 That cannot be legally binding that they cannot write an article, unless a change in ToS states that we are not allowed to fraternize outside of SL or about SL without thier expressed written consent. It's a public platform currently. It'd have to be similiar to an NDA and since SL isn't in beta... well it's not supposed to be anyways, that wouldn't go over real well. Not to mention kill off any and all 3rd party ezines about SL like the Herald. As for the little known hometown designers, that really all depends on how they come in. If they carefully either select the right person or do it themselves to recreate thier best fashions that appeal to SL consumers, more power to them, same with a large company for me. IF the girl down the street creates blah clothes, then the sales will be blah for both RL and SL. If that girl down the street creates innovate and sexy or unique designs, both RL and SL sales could rocket. It's not only about product but embracing SL as a business and not as a sink for publicity. _____________________ A severed foot is the ultimate stocking stuffer. - Mitch Hedburg I saw a commercial for an above-ground pool. It was thirty seconds long. You know why? Because that's the maximum amount of time you can depict yourself having fun in an above-ground pool - M.H. You know, I'm sick of following my dreams, man. I'm just going to ask where they're going and hook up with 'em later. - M.H.
Jax Huskerdu Registered User Join date: 28 Jun 2006 Posts: 250	12-08-2006 08:41 From: Shep Korvin My own thoughts: 3. I don't really imagine that the skills required for designing avatar clothing, and the skills required for designing real-life clothing, are particularly closely-entwined. OK, being able to design neat SL clothing might be a good insight into general creative ability... but designing nice SL clothing is as much about understanding the technical curvature/texture-mapping limitations of SL avatars and being able to convincingly draw creases, shadows and folds as anything else... I run one of the most successful clothing brands in SL (judging from my turnover figures), but wouldn't have the first idea about designing clothing for real-life. I'm a graphics geek, not a seamstress. Very true Shep! I do have RL design experience and majored in Fashion Design. Let me attest that this is truly a different world! I have a small shop in Sokri and currently sell boots and furniture. I'm only (been in SL since late June 06) just at a point that I feel my goods are of a high enough quality to sell to others, what with texture matching, subtle blending of shapes, etc. I've created a few clothing pieces so far, but I'm a seamstress, not a grapics geek! lol I'll be a better geek soon, but still have a lot to learn before I put my clothing textures out there. I doubt that RL companies will be putting in 10 to 14 hr marathon SL sessions like I did as a noob to learn all the the ins and outs of being a pixel designer. Another point: Living in NYC and traveling around the world as I do, I think it's fun to bring some of the trends I see into SL, (my friends from Vogue and Bazaar were actually V. impressed with my boots at my last coctail party) but what RL companies probably won't realize is the degree in which you have to exaggerate object to make certain details stand out in the same way the do here (ie. my heels are 30 to 50 per cent higher than the item that inspired this season's last (shoe shape) for me. I also have to jazz up the detail a bit more. Simple sells in RL, but in SL it just looks like you didn't give it your all. Thanks to all you geeks out there who made me who helped to make me the hottie that I am. Much love and respect! Jax BTW Shep, would love to pick your brain a bit as far as texturing goes. Mind if I IM you in world sometime for a quick meet?
Gillian Waldman Buttercup Join date: 1 Oct 2006 Posts: 697	12-08-2006 08:44 From: Shep Korvin My own thoughts: 1. At the present time, most people in SL tend to dress way more outrageously and exhibitionistically than they would ever dream of doing in reality... hehe - that's funny because I might be opposite of most female AVs on SL. I definitely don't wear the risque stuff that apparently sells so well (i.e. short skirts, thigh high boots, latex etc.)...I stick to things that are girly and flirty No fantasies for me LOL.
Jax Huskerdu Registered User Join date: 28 Jun 2006 Posts: 250	Look for me in game 12-08-2006 09:57 From: Rachy Richez Hi all, If anyone is an SL fashion owner it'd be great to speak to them too. See below for my official spiel on the subject. Do please please get in touch. Message me, or send me an email to [email]rachel.arthur@btinternet.com[/email]. Many thanks! Rach aka. Rachy Richez Rach, If your in world this weekend, IM me. You can swing by my shop, and if you'd like, I'd be happy to run you through a few a my favorites in the game. Just let me know and I'll organise a tour for you 1st. lol
Carl Metropolitan Registered User Join date: 7 Jul 2005 Posts: 1,031	12-08-2006 11:47 From: Rachy Richez In particular it is about the presence of RL fashion brands, and whether people want them here or not. I have very low awareness of RL fashion brands in SL. I'd heard of American Apparel, but that was it. On the other hand I can name off a dozen SL desginers--and I'm a guy
Argus Collingwood Totally Tintable Join date: 5 Dec 2005 Posts: 600	12-08-2006 12:17 From: Rachy Richez On an extra note... would you mind emailing me a pic of your SL self? It'd be amazing to put a picture of you beside your comments, I will email you in return a copy of the article once it has been completed. I have much better photos in-game. IM me in-game and I'll send you a few and perhaps we can visit some of my favorite designers stores.
John Horner Registered User Join date: 27 Jun 2006 Posts: 626	12-08-2006 12:26 Ishtara Rothschild you made a comment on another thread yesterday about accommodating somebody in what you called your little Second Life novelty shop. I thought that so called solution was quite elegant and respecting your intelligence, having debated with you from time to time on these BBs, and having some time to spare I looked your "little" business up in world.......................... I think that as the Dell business does represent a quite acceptable use of the inter-activity of the Second Life platform, your Second Life business could, if duplicated in first life, make you a multi millionaire. The two oldest businesses in the world, first and second. I actually do the other side of the same coin (one of the two). Lets see how it goes, look me up in world. Regards John

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