Thriving in Games Group (TIGG) Company Profile

Background

Overview

Thriving in Games Group (TIGG), formerly known as the Fair Play Alliance, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering safer and more inclusive gaming environments. Established in 2017, TIGG collaborates with game developers worldwide to promote positive player experiences and combat harmful behaviors within gaming communities. The organization operates globally, with its headquarters located in Irvine, California.

Mission and Vision

TIGG's mission is to empower game developers to create online spaces where players can thrive, free from harassment, discrimination, and abuse. The organization's vision is to cultivate a gaming landscape that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of all players.

Industry Significance

As the gaming industry continues to expand, the need for safe and inclusive environments becomes increasingly critical. TIGG plays a pivotal role in addressing these challenges by providing resources, best practices, and a collaborative platform for developers to enhance community health and player well-being.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Promote Safe Gaming Spaces: Develop and disseminate guidelines to help studios create environments free from toxicity.

Foster Inclusivity: Encourage diverse representation and inclusive practices within game design and community management.

Support Developer Education: Offer training and resources to equip developers with the tools to build positive player experiences.

Areas of Specialization

Trust and Safety: Implementing measures to protect players from harmful interactions.

Player Dynamics: Understanding and managing player behavior to enhance community health.

Inclusive Design: Creating games that are accessible and welcoming to all players.

Key Technologies Utilized

TIGG leverages research-backed methodologies and collaborates with academic institutions to develop evidence-based practices for promoting digital thriving. The organization also utilizes data analytics to assess community health and player engagement.

Primary Markets Targeted

TIGG primarily engages with game development studios, community managers, and industry stakeholders globally, aiming to influence the broader gaming ecosystem toward healthier and more inclusive practices.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a nonprofit organization, TIGG's funding is derived from a combination of grants, donations, and partnerships. Notably, the organization has received support from the Riot Games Social Impact Fund, which has been instrumental in advancing its initiatives.

Recent Funding Rounds

Specific details regarding recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed. However, TIGG continues to seek partnerships and collaborations to sustain and expand its programs.

Notable Investors

The Riot Games Social Impact Fund is a significant supporter, reflecting a commitment to fostering positive gaming environments.

Utilization of Capital

Funds are allocated toward developing resources like the Digital Thriving Playbook, hosting community events, conducting research, and providing educational programs for developers.

Pipeline Development

Key Initiatives

Digital Thriving Playbook: A comprehensive resource offering best practices for creating healthy online spaces.

Community Events: Regular webinars and workshops focusing on topics such as safety by design and inclusive game development.

Research Projects: Collaborations with academic institutions to study player behavior and community dynamics.

Anticipated Milestones

Playbook Updates: Ongoing revisions to incorporate new research and industry developments.

Event Expansion: Increasing the frequency and reach of community events to engage a broader audience.

Research Publications: Publishing findings to inform industry standards and practices.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

TIGG does not develop proprietary technologies but focuses on curating and disseminating best practices and research findings to the gaming community.

Significant Scientific Methods

Digital Thriving Framework: A set of principles guiding the creation of positive online spaces.

Community Health Assessments: Utilizing surveys and data analysis to evaluate and improve community well-being.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Matthew Soeth: Executive Director, leading strategic initiatives and partnerships.

Kimberly Voll, PhD: Co-Founder, contributing expertise in game design and community health.

Jeffrey Burrell: Board Member, providing governance and strategic oversight.

Professional Backgrounds

Matthew Soeth: Extensive experience in nonprofit management and community engagement.

Kimberly Voll, PhD: Background in game development and research on player behavior.

Jeffrey Burrell: Expertise in organizational leadership and strategic planning.

Key Contributions

Matthew Soeth: Spearheaded the development of the Digital Thriving Playbook.

Kimberly Voll, PhD: Conducted research influencing industry standards for inclusive game design.

Jeffrey Burrell: Guided the organization through significant growth and increased industry recognition.

Market Insights and Competitor Profile

The gaming industry is experiencing rapid growth, with an increasing emphasis on community engagement and player well-being. This shift has led to a greater focus on creating inclusive and safe gaming environments.

While TIGG operates in a niche sector, it collaborates with various organizations and industry leaders to promote its mission. Its unique position as a nonprofit dedicated solely to community health and inclusivity sets it apart from for-profit entities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop: Partnered to develop the Digital Thriving Playbook, combining expertise in child development and media.

Riot Games Social Impact Fund: Provided funding and support for various initiatives aimed at improving gaming communities.

Impact of Collaborations

These partnerships have enhanced TIGG's ability to reach a broader audience, develop comprehensive resources, and implement effective programs that promote positive player experiences.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

TIGG's focus on collaboration and research allows it to influence industry practices without direct competition. Its nonprofit status enables a focus on mission-driven goals rather than profit, fostering trust and credibility within the gaming community.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Roadmap and Future Directions

Expansion of Resources: Developing additional tools and guides to assist developers in creating inclusive games.

Global Outreach: Engaging with international developers to promote global standards for safe gaming environments.

Research Initiatives: Conducting studies to further understand player behavior and community dynamics, informing future strategies.

Opportunities for Expansion

TIGG has the opportunity to expand its influence by collaborating with more game studios, hosting international events, and advocating for policy changes that support inclusive gaming practices.