Innoventions is currently working on a research & development project, in Second Life, where we are testing educational applications.  Through the use of my social network (thanks to Association of Virtual Worlds), I met Heidi Hansen, aka Heidi Ballinger, the founder of Power Match, in Denmark. 

In addition to her responsibilities at Power Match, Heidi is also the Project manager at the University of Roskilde (DK), where is working on a four year project covering Virtual Worlds.   

I had the great honor and pleasure, of spending time with Heidi in Second Life.  She took me on a virtual tour of the Power Match offices, as well as some of her current projects in development.  The experience was enlightening, on many levels.  I left the experience with many ideas to our development project. 

The experience left me wanting more, about Power Match, Heidi and Second Life.  I visited the site for Power Match and visited Heidi’s blog.  As I was reading through the many posts, I came across a very interesting one, titled “Should I adopt my Second Life name to real life?” 

 

This question seemed easily answered, in my mind, but then I went to the New World Notes blog.  Heidi’s question stirred up a lot of interest from readers.  The quantity of comments intrigued me, as apparently many people had things to say, so I continued to read.  I wondered why Heidi would consider, giving up her real life identity, for that of her avatars.   

As I read, I learned that in Denmark, more people know “Heidi Ballinger” from TV and media, than “Heidi Hansen” the real life women.  The metaverse has caused a reversal in her branding, by not having the availability to use her real life name, in Second life.   

Now I could see her point, strangely enough.  I read the blog of Chris Brogan for tips and advice on social networking.  Why, because he is a “giver” and a real being, not to mention great advice.  As recent a post in June 2008, he says you may want to “transfer your real world reputation into the online world”.  I believe that to be Great advice.  I imagine he as well as other social media bloggers would find Heidi’s situation an interesting twist. 

It is apparent that Heidi is not the only professional with this issue.  Linden Labs, developers of Second Life, have a beta program.  This program allows for the submission of a Custom Vanity Names, now giving the option to use your life name.  At present, there is a $50.00 annual fee, if your submission is approved, but people like me find it worth the additional cost to maintain a common thread between my networks.  I do find it amusing, that I must “Pay” to use my own name, but to me worth it. 

What would you do under these circumstances?  Would you pay the additional fee for a custom vanity name?  If you already had a established and well known SL name, would you change your real life name? Do you enjoy having an alter ego?  Look forward to hearing others thoughts as I see this as an interesting topic, on the new frontier. 

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