Transmedia: Storytelling and Beyond

Narratives and interactive experiences developed across different media platforms—each of which contributes something unique and valuable to the whole—have become standard fixtures in the contemporary digital landscape. The term ‘transmedia storytelling’ has enjoyed particular currency within academic circles while the media industry speaks in terms of multiplatform experiences. Much has been written on the subject in the academic and industry press, though new technologies and the pressure to do something innovative with the digital medium mean that the idea and practice of transmedia are in flux. While the debate over what to call this phenomenon remains unresolved, there is no denying its profound impact on the relationship between media producers, audiences/users, digital content and the devices used to consume and produce it. Naming conventions remain a contentious issue, however, there is also a need to examine other aspects of this emerging industry to ensure its ongoing sustainability. This call for presentations represents an invitation to introduce, highlight or clarify key questions concerning issues such as models for benchmarking, techniques for user engagement, value measurement, pedagogy and curriculum design, and evaluative techniques for complex and dynamic user engagement. Transmedia is, by its very nature, an interdisciplinary enterprise that draws from fields such creative writing, IT, film, television, media studies, economics, public policy, creative design, and education. Thus, the  project seeks to create a space for critical engagement that is enriched by the participation of academics, industry professionals and other stakeholders, as well as audience/users from across the disciplinary spectrum.

We are delighted to launch the project in Sydney with 3 one-day events organised around separate, yet related themes. We therefore welcome proposals for presentations, papers and panels on topics such as:

• Digital Interfaces
• (Re)Defining and understanding the meaning of transmedia/multiplatform production
• Social networking trends and their impact on transmedia/multiplatform development
• Cultural policy and the promotion of transmedia/multiplatform innovation
• Defining and measuring audience/user engagement
• ...

More information:
http://www.inter-disciplinary.net/research/research-nexus/digital-nexus/global-project-on-transmedia/transmedia-storytelling-and-beyond/