TIGA, the trade association for video game developers and digital publishers in the UK, has announced Hao2 as its latest member. Hao2 is a social firm that designs, programs and sells 3D virtual world & virtual office software. 80% of Hao2’s team have disabilities including autism.
The excellence of Hao2’s products is to a great extent driven by the unique qualities of its autistic staff. This is due not just to the exceptional creative and development skills they bring to bear, but because Hao2 operates using the same products it sells, meaning its products are 100% tried, tested and effective for any organisation, including those employing people with disabilities.
Hao2’s products include a variety of virtual environments tailored for a range of purposes from medical training, project management, general meetings, education, vocational & professional training as well as virtual events. Hao2 also offers a range of 3D cloud services, which enable organisations to innovate and improve their performance.
The technology Hao2 uses includes a range of open-source platforms like OpenSimulator, Unity3D, AvayaLive Engage and Second Life. What all of Hao2’s products have in common is the application of avatars as ‘proxy’ 3D identities through which users can instantly connect with other people and immerse themselves in an online environment or experience.
The use of avatars is particularly effective for staff who find face to face meetings uncomfortable or otherwise unviable, thus removing barriers to productivity and helping people with complex needs apply their skills and fulfil their potential.
Nicola Herbertson, CEO of Hao2, comments:
“I’m very pleased to be joining TIGA and hope its community of developers, publishers, tech companies and service providers will help contribute to the future success and positive social impact of Hao2.
“The new technology and innovations we are seeing in the world of video games have huge potential not just to entertain but to transform the world for the better. One only has to see the level of interest being shown by tech giants like Sony and Facebook in how virtual worlds can enhance social and professional interaction, to see the impact this could have on us all.
“People with autism can be exceptionally creative both with regard to design and coding. Not only does virtual world technology free the creative potential of people with complex needs, but it also shows how they can have a valuable and fulfilling role contributing to future of this technology too.”
Dr Richard Wilson, CEO, TIGA, added:
“Hao2 is a wonderful company and with today being World Autism Day – designed to celebrate and recognise the skills and creative potential of autistic people everywhere, it’s a fitting moment for us to warmly welcome Nicola and her team to TIGA.
“Hao2’s products and services are great for a range of organisations, including those employing staff with complex needs. I’m also sure the expertise and experience Nicola has gained in setting up a flexible business catering for a range of needs will be of great value to other small business owners in the TIGA network.
“I look forward to seeing Hao2 at future TIGA events, and hearing more good news from on how it is helping people fulfil their potential and contribute to the future of our industry and economy.”
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About Hao2
Hao2.eu is a social firm dedicated to promoting inclusive innovation. We have developed partnerships with multiple organizations across Europe, the Commonwealth, and China. Since 2010, Hao2.eu has been researching the development and application of 3D virtual world technologies and we now offer a range of innovative 3D virtual world products and services which help organizations improve services, especially for people with disabilities.
Our innovative concepts and services have been recognized by several British and international associations. We were awarded South London Business Best Equalities Employer in 2010, qualified as a finalist in the URAC Care Consortium International Health Promotion Awards in 2011, and won the Nominet Internet Award for Most Innovative Business in 2012.
To get in touch please contact nikki@hao2.eu
You can also follow us on twitter: @Hao2eu
About TIGA
TIGA is the trade association representing the UK’s games development and digital publishing sector. We help developers and digital publishers build successful studios, network with the right people, save money and access professional business advice.
We also have traditional publishers, outsourcing companies, technology businesses and universities amongst our membership.
TIGA is 90% funded by independent UK businesses. 80% of our board members are developers and/or from UK owned businesses, and 50% of our board are UK business owners themselves. Since 2010, TIGA has won 16 business awards.
TIGA focuses on three sets of activities:
- Political representation
- Media representation
- Business services
It also means our members’ voices are heard in the corridors of power and positively represented in national, broadcast and UK video game trade media.
Get in touch:
Tel: 0845 468 2330
Email: info@tiga.org
Web: www.tiga.org
Twitter: @TIGAMovement
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TIGAMovement
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/tiga
For further information, you can also contact:
Dr Richard Wilson, TIGA CEO on: 07875 939 643, or email: richard.wilson@tiga.org
Drew Field, TIGA Communications Director on: 07720 643 344, or email drew.field@tiga.org