Global multi-user virtual environments

Abstract

Research and development activities are facing a continuing globalization. Networks are getting more important than companies or institutes. Main reasons for this trend are: (Faster) access to new knowledge and technology and its improved transfer. Economic reasons. Use the particular advantages of multicultural work environments. Together with a steadily improving technology, the global information society is not far away. In particular, the networking and virtual environment technologies are making much progress and are ready to enable shared, distributed, cooperative activities. This panel addresses network infrastructure, systems, and applications related to multi-user virtual environments, especially the global (intercontinental/international) aspects of these issues. The panelists will summarize their "lessons learned," will highlight latest activities, and share with the audience their short/mid-term vision on global, multi-user virtual environments. The panelists intend to enrich their presentations with (multicontinental) live demonstrations. Furthermore, specific applications are showcased at "Digital Bayou" (Where No Man Has Gone Before).