Bridging the Gap: Connecting Ideas, Research and Business
Moderator: Tom Calvert, Credo Interactive
Panelist: Steve DiPaola, Simon Fraser University
Panelist: Adam Montandon, HMC Interactive
Panelist: Vincent John Vincent, GestureTek
Friday, March 28 – 9am

The morning session on day two of ICE08 was an excellent showcase of some great initiatives using interactive technologies that are being developed in places like academia and public-private partnerships.

The first of such projects was iVizLab, an initiative that creates socially engaging systems that enhance communication, collaboration and learning through real-time 3D animation, visualization, user interface and AI techniques. Among the interesting research areas of iVizLab that were presented included projects around 3D face-construction for communication and animation and . More information about iVizLab is available at their website.

The next presentation was by GestureTek, who create multi-touch interfaces and gesture-based digital interfaces for new interactive content. One of the more exciting projects being undertaken by GestureTek is the creation of joystick-like interface control through cameraphones instead of acceleratometer-based devices.

Adam Montandon from HMC Interactive shared with us some points on how they keep coming up with great innovative ideas:

• Make idea generation a game.
• Remove obstacles to idea sharing.
• Do not worry about the specifics of an idea at first.
• Change your environment constantly.
• Believe in your idea, no matter how crazy it may be.

In addressing the issue of finding great talent and innovative people, Montandon was clear: if you create an exciting environment where ideas are valued, you don’t have to look for great talent, because the talent will want to come work for you.