From Eric Kruske, Simulations Art Group, Microsoft

Fellow artists, writers and creative-heads:

I was fortunate enough to attend Collision: AIGA Conference for Converged Media in New York City a week or so ago.

First off, a little explanation, for those unfamiliar with the term: "Converged Media" refers to the merging of one or more technological mediums for a multi-dimensional experience. The question asked: "When television, web, wireless and countless other technologies [eventually] "collide" how will we design new consumer experiences?"

OK, I have to say: what a great conference. Two and a half days of mind food, all killer, no filler. Twenty speakers, ranging from MTV and VH1 creative directors, to interactive designers from Sony Design Center and Apple Computers, to professors at MIT and London's Royal College of Art.

Takeaways:
People are looking for EXPERIENCES - "what can it do for me?"
1. can shift moods (music is a great example)
2. adrenaline hit - REALISM is the key (i.e.: Extreme Sports and Outdoor Adventure)
3. ease of use i.e.: (PDA's, cell phones)
4. power - increase users' capabilities, give them power

New, cool technologies are emerging due to convergence. Things like the "webpad", a medium-sized handheld device that you use in addition to your television to interact with WebTV programs. Of course, there were many more mind-expanding ideas and technologies explored/discussed. I've tried to touch on a few.

Send your conference reviews, questions, and answers to Collision Program Director Alice Twemlow.