The importance of networking

Networking has always been an integral part of our lives. Since Cave Age people have been getting together and communicating. In small villages there was always a central place where people gathered during celebrations. Later, churches have played a key role in getting people together at least once a week. Nowadays pubs and malls are the new meeting points. This is where young people spend a significant amount of time. The other “place” that people spend a lot of time is the internet. And there is a clear reason why – networking. Not in the computer sense. They are networking with people that are far away or hard to reach. In a variety of ways – e-mail, social network sites, instant messaging, you name it.

But there is still something missing. In public places it is considered rude and impolite to approach someone unknown and strike a conversation with him/her. In virtual communication the non-verbal communication is lost. But it’s vital for successful relationships. It looks like there’s no perfect solution. We are still working to find one though. We call it “The Networking Table”.

Picture this: You’re enjoying your favorite drink at the bar and you’re spotting that cute chick or guy over there. Wondering if she or he is waiting for a classmate or the special one? Going there and asking could make you look stupid, right? Why don’t we just use some technology to find out? Now imagine the tables and the bar counter were active displays. They would let you check your mail, browse the bar menu, play games with other guests or just enjoy some soothing warm colors. If we get back to our example – let’s just select the spot that our object of interest is sitting and send him/her a “ping” – a flower, a smile or any other funny image. If he/she smiles and responds then we’re in the game, right? It’s non-intrusive, delicate and funny. If he/she ignores it, nothing’s lost, right? See this other cute one over there? Let’s try again.