BIG BLUE has announced a new project that integrates Lotus Sametime with multiple virtual environments.

Sametime 3-D reportedly offers participants access to full avatar functionality, 3-D objects and advanced presentation tools. In addition, users will be able to sign in with existing enterprise authentication tools, choose a meeting environment and share files.

IBM also plans to enable video recording, text chat captures and enhanced reporting capabilities.

Colin Parris, VP of Digital Convergence, explained that Sametime 3-D will allow businesses to “clearly realise the ROI of virtual environments”. According to Parris, extending the real-time connection between people into a 3-D medium “enhances the experience and productivity of teams located across the country or the world”.

It should be noted that IBM is pursuing similar integration capabilities between Sametime and a variety of other products – including the ActiveWorlds and UC2 platforms. µ