We humans are social creatures that thrive on face to face interaction and communication.   Tom Erickson, interaction designer and researcher in the Social Computing Group at IBM’s Watson Labs defines social computing as providing an online place, application or service that have some of that “life” to them. 
His new report provides a though-provoking analysis of what is “social computing,” how does it differ from “social media,” and what is its impact on the way we work, live and play.

Erickson’s report and interview discussions provide insight for digital designers and developers like Manning, but also important ideas for those in online marketing and communications.  He likens digital designers to architects and urban planners who are creating public spaces to encourage people to interact, communicate, and live together.  He suggests that we look at online spaces in terms of the interaction they support and promote.

It’s a compelling analysis well worth the investment of time.

Meet our newest Project Manager!

We’d like to formally introduce our newest interactive project manager, Laura Nash. Laura joined us mid-September after completing a cross-country move from Seattle, Washington. She’s got years of experience producing digital media from concept development through post-launch strategy. Her production background includes work for Random House, Disney Online, Penguin Books, and Discovery Networks. In her spare time, Laura loves directing and stage managing theater.

As Interactive Project Manager at Manning, Laura will provide leadership on individual projects as well as overall creative vision and direction. She is especially well versed in app development and promotion. Oh, and if you aren’t sold on her yet — Celine Dion once sang her Happy Birthday. You’ve got to admit that’s pretty cool.

“A Girl Story” is a unique new inspiration for a philanthropic campaign.  It’s based on a series of short animated YouTube clips that are seamlessly linked together.  The film series progressed scene by scene as donors made contributions to the Mahindra Foundation to help provide education to under-privileged girls.  This engagement is really an innovative alternative to the traditional passive video solicitation that non-profits have used in the past.

What’s not to love about the Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup season?  The Answer: The Chicago Sun-Times coverage of where the Stanley Cup Trophy has been over the summer.

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President Obama’s inauguration day was captured in an innovative interactive photo mosaic using thousands of user-submitted images by the Washington Post. Zoom in to see all the different perspectives on that day. You can also click and drag the image to pan around.