What is the essence of Second Life?

Last night at dinner I was asked to explain what Second Life is and how it can be used in organizations. Martin Heildegger (1953), a German Philosopher and author of the book Questioning Technology and Other Essays, advocates questioning the essence of technology. Don Tappscot, author of Wikinomics, talks about how technology is creating participatory platforms. Second Life definitely Tappscot’s description of a participatory platform. I would describe Second Life as an interface that allows global network that is sort of like a the capability to do webinars plus simulation. The non-linear experiential format of Second Life can be quite a bit different from a webinar or teleconference where the connection between participants in often limited to online chatting and communications. Gartner, Inc. warns that companies should not ignore the growing trend as having a virtual world presence will be a significant factor in businesses within the next five years.