Exploring new territory

IBM announced it will integrate a virtual world platform into Lotus Sametime, a collaboration software that will be used by the US intelligence agencies to discuss topics like terrorism.

Analysts believe the move may lead to increased adoption of virtual worlds nationwide, as IBM may encourage other users of Sametime to go virtual, reports IDG News Service.

IBM's partner in the project is Forterra Systems. Its virtual worlds platform, On-Line Interactive Virtual Environment (OLIVE), has been used by organizations to hold meetings and develop new products.

For its part, IBM has become a kind of corporate expert in the realm of virtual collaboration. Virtual world Kaneva partnered with IBM for server support. And in July 2007, IBM released employee guidelines for virtual conduct.