Dr. Neil Hair

Forget webcam weddings, panda cams, or birthcams, the latest trend from cradle to grave is being initiated by the British. Chanterlands Crematorium, Hull, UK, is setting up a webcam service so that those who cannot physically attend may do so and pay last respects online. What I like about this story (other than it reminds people to celebrate life) is the ingenuity of the service provider. They saw the need, and catered to it. I estimate total costs of this service to be in the region of $1000 all in (including server equipment, computer and cam etc). It will be interesting to see whether this includes a premium charge for the service or whether its being used as part of the augmented offering. Old technology, new uses. I'd like to see this level of ingenuity at RIT – theres very little stopping us from webcasting lectures live over the internet, if we can do it on our way out so to speak, there are no excuses here.