Must Play

Death Of Gamification Greatly Exaggerated

These "death of gamification" articles are becoming popular. The irony of that in the scope of the content game we play can't be overlooked, but let's put that discussion on hold. Instead lets discuss the fact that gamification is NOT monolithic. 

Gamification, the use of game theory in marketing or other non-game enterprise functions, takes many forms such as:

* Active - earning points for social rewards.

* Passive - forming an ecosystem with algorithms reinforces play.

* Real Tie - we will play in real time when predictive analytics and big data become more common.

I got criticism speaking of "badges" at a Meetup recently. The person made it sound like I was equating all gamification with badges. Not so, I am keenly aware of the many different variations of gamification. 

A website's taxonomy (its navigation) is a form of gamification. Website designers are developing paths and rewards or "passive" gamification. When I reward your behavior with an instant redeem coupon we've moved into real time gamification and when I keep track of your "points" we've moved to active gamification. 

Great gamification happens without you ever knowing it. What is a red light but a convention, a game, we all agree to and play by daily. Our rewards are not having car crashes and being a good citizen. Make no mistake, red lights and green lights are games and we "win" by arriving home in time for dinner safely. 

NO gamification is not now nor will it ever be "played out".  

Chaos Means Brands Matter, Brands Mean Badges Matter
As chaos, or the perception of chaos, increases we pattern seeking humans look for signposts, maps and ways out of the forest. Many say they despise social media badging with a, "Badges, we don't need no stinking badges," attitude.

Badges are meaningful icons, icons with a story of legitimacy behind them. Badges are earned, competed for and so cherished. This post shares how Librarian created badges to help define digital expertise among teachers.

When you learn something new you've worked hard. Everyone knows we are in the "constant learning" world. Luckily it is easier to learn new skills, but it can be hard to identify those new skills on your LinkedIn profile.

Badges like the ones Librarian created are great examples of how to create meaningful icons that help define personal branding and makes a conversation about who knows what easier and more universal.

So who needs some "stinking badges"? Chances are you do :). M