There are a number of ways that you can bring your organisation or business to Second Life.

1. DIY

The Second Life client software can be downloaded from the Second Life website at no cost. After this, you need to create an avatar (character) and adjust its body and clothing features to suit your requirements. You will then need to acquire some proficiency in navigation, communication and inventory management.

To create an office, you will need to purchase/rent some suitable land and learn basic building skills or purchase ready made buildings or commission custom made buildings which can cost upwards of £5000 ($10,000). Once the office is established it needs to be furnished with corporate furniture, signage and product/service information and with methods for interested parties to communicate with you.

Although this can be done on a limited financial budget, the time overhead can be significant.

2. Using a specialist design agency

There are a number of design agencies that specialise in 'major builds'. This would be where a company wishes to build an HQ flagship building probably on a private island, much like IBM and other major players. You would need a budget upwards of £40,000 ($80,000) and some agencies are quoting a 9 month waiting list. Although the finished product can be very attractive and awe inspiring, one of the problems of having your own island is that after the initial PR to announce the opening unless there are constant marketing initiatives, visitor numbers may diminish and the company could be looking at a very expensive white elephant/ghost town.

3. New Horizons Business Parks

New Business Horizons has created the 'Blue Horizon' virtual business park which offers companies the opportunity to enter Second Life in a timely and cost effective manner to test and explore the business benefits before committing any major resources to the project.

The park houses state-of-the-art conference and social facilities as well as stylishly designed business premises branded with each company's corporate colours, logos, posters, brochures, corporate videos, web links, etc.

Engaging with other professionals in the park can also lead to meaningful business relationships in addition to your company’s specific needs being met. Already at least two companies on Blue Horizon have done business together in the real world.

For more details about the New Horizons Business Park, see our Packaged Solution for a full description of our unique and cost effective service.