DefenseWeb Launches Army OneSource Virtual Community in Second Life
SAN DIEGO, CA, January 05, 2010 - DefenseWeb® Technologies, Inc., a premier software developer and systems integrator for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal government agencies, recently launched the Army OneSource virtual community.
The first private, secure, computer-based environment of its kind created on the Linden Lab® Second Life® platform provides information, services and much-needed outreach to service members’ families not located near bases.
“With the Army OneSource virtual community in the Second Life virtual world, geographically dispersed Soldiers serving abroad or here at home and their Families have an interactive alternative to access information and resources, stay connected and build a strong support community,” said Cy Calvo, Project Manager at DefenseWeb. “The rapid and extended deployments many of our service members face today mean more family members are in greater need of information and services, but may not be close to a military installation. This program can enable them to meet within an environment with which they are already familiar and comfortable using in order to link up with the right programs and services as well as other family members in similar situations to offer support and friendship.”
The virtual world community facilitates interactive social networking and learning through:
- E-learning and collaboration tools
- Computer-based training
- Live media streaming
- Joining or creating special interest groups
- Participating in and holding special events
- Training and outreach services
Army OneSource members can gain access to the virtual community through the Army OneSource web portal. Once Army Soldiers and Family Members register, they can log into the environment to create and customize their own digital persona, known as an avatar. Using the avatar, participants can navigate the community and communicate with others via text or voice chat. A number of meeting spaces have been developed in support of the virtual community including the Exchange Plaza, Parade Field, Family Medical Center, Army OneSource Community Center, Fitness Center, Historical Museum, Outdoor Amphitheater, Vehicle Test Range and Wild Life Refuge.
“One of the features unique to this secure environment is the Survivor Community, an invitation-only area created for Family Members of Soldiers who lost their lives. It provides survivors with an online support allowing them to network with other Family Members of Soldiers who have died,” said Tonya Bowers, Vice President of Military Family Programs at DefenseWeb Technologies. “Dedicated spaces and activities within this special section support a variety of interests, including a Soldier Tribute Monument for lost loved ones, a main lodge with a lobby and large meeting space, a crafts and quilt project room, a Library and Book Club, and a non-denominational Chapel for reflection and meditation.”
The overwhelmingly positive response from Soldiers and their Families so far may pave the way for similar social media initiatives in the near future, said Bowers.
About DefenseWeb® Technologies, Inc.
DefenseWeb Technologies, Inc. (www.defenseweb.com) provides software solutions for Federal health care, well being, and Family Readiness organizations. We develop and deliver innovative enterprise-wide web portals, clinical information applications, case management applications, community and collaboration systems, and online training applications. Leveraging our expertise with government and healthcare information security standards, we address the needs of military service members and their families. DefenseWeb is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Humana Inc. (NYSE:HUM).
© 2010 DefenseWeb Technologies. All rights reserved. DefenseWeb® and Xtendable® Server are trademarks of DefenseWeb Technologies Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Cindi Clark / DefenseWeb Technologies
Email: cindi.clark@defenseweb.com
Phone: 678.705.7191
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