Convergent Media and The Lost Experience

Henry Jenkins believes we are living in a culture of media convergence.  New and old media industries are in a position to where they must cooperate in order to maintain relevance.  Technologies are developing and consumers are becoming more active in their media consumption.  And according to Jenkins, "Consumers are learning how to use these different media technologies to bring the flow of media more fully under their control and to interact with other consumers.  The promises of this new media environment raise expectation of a freer flow of ideas and content."

The Lost Experience is an example of how active consumers can interact in this convergent media climate to create something wonderful. 

The Lost Experience was a multifaceted alternate reality game designed by the creators of the the ABC television program "Lost."  The idea behind this "game," was to utilize the large online community of fans, allow them to interact with one another, and provide them with additional content that would not be aired on television.  With this, many subplots, minor characters, and pieces of show mythology were able to develop,  thus creating a more enriched and comprehensive experience for the most dedicated of fans.

To an extent this is similar to any franchise tie-in, but in many ways it was much different.  First and foremost, it was free.  The whole experience was made up of several mysterious web pages, blogs, and videos that anyone with enough interest and internet connection could access.  It wasn't a product that was for sale.  It was crafted by creators of the show but completely propelled and circulated by users.

Also, the television program was designed to stand alone, and doesn't rely on any of the information from The Lost Experience.  The Lost Experience was created for avid fans of the show in order to give them more information and delve deeper into the story, while still allowing for casual fans.

I believe this is a great example of Jenkin's idea in action.  Various media platforms are working together, creating a positive experience, satisfying an audience, and allowing for their continued success.  Television may have to adapt and accept the internet as an integral part to their programming, but in the end, according the Jenkins, in will probably be to their benefit.