Use virtual to learn about the real! Big Blue is planning to roll out a new program to teach employees "cultural values, decision-making regimens, and required technical skill sets." Here's the nitty-gritty:

The program was created as a means to accommodate thousands of geographically dispersed new employees who work or reside in remote areas that are significant distances from centralized IBM facilities... One of IBM@Play's chief goals is to take advantage of the internet and its ability to bring people together as a social network, thus breaking down the barriers of distance and satellite office environments.

Employees that reside in remote areas, learning how to social. Via Second Life? Furries and James Wagner Au aside, this actually sounds intriguing. Brian Ashcraft

IBM Teaches Employees How To Socialize With SL [Guardian]