I just came across something I have dreamed about for some time – a game for email!
In prior posts, I talked about game mechanics, and how the entire 2Time approach could be seen as a game of sorts of improving one’s skill from White to Black Belt over time. I have also studied some of the work of Amy JoKim, and reviewed her presentation “Putting the Fun into Functional” at least once per year, wondering how her cool ideas could be used to help us manage time better.
Then I came across Baydin Inc, and their cool new app, in the form of The Email Game. At the moment, I have tested the Gmail version, which I think is the only one available… and it works wonders.
It prompts the user with an amusing count-down clock to drive towards a Zero Inbox, flashing up an encouraging graphic after each action. Once you have finished dispensing with each email, it gives you some statistics and a score for dealing with your email.
It’s the very first game that I have found that gives immediate feedback on how well the user is keeping their Inbox empty. This is a big leap forward folks, and thanks to the guys at Baydin (a small startup) for their insight and contribution.
Let’s hope they don’t stop!