Friday, January 21, 2011

BigDoor Opens Up Game Mechanics Service

Seattle-based BigDoor, the developer of game mechanics platforms used for "gamification" of web sites, said Thursday that it has opened up its platform, making it free to users. The firm had originally charged websites which wanted to use its API, which makes it easy for sites to reward "badges" for accomplishing certain tasks. Badges and other rewards have recently become a popular way to promote usage of web services and sites. BigDoor CEO Keith Smith said in the firm's announcement of the move that the firm has always had a goal of making the platform free, with plans to generate revenue through optional, value-added services. BigDoor is venture backed by the Foundry Group and the Founder's Co-Op.