Vector Image of David Galiel

January 7, 2015
David Galiel, Elbowfish

David Galiel believes that more playful work is more satisfying work and that a more playful life is a better life; and, that appropriate technology and experience design, focused on creating constructive communication, connection and community-building, can change the world. In this highly entertaining discussion, David will share his unique insights into how entertainment, education and everyday experience intersect. He will also talk about how emerging developments in technology-mediated human interaction empower an architectural approach to creating virtual civic spaces. Come learn how David succeeds in applying game-inspired approaches to improving work, converting customers to fans, and harnessing the power of community, and how his company, Elbowfish, creates fun games that make people think.

About the Speaker

David Galiel is CEO & Producer at Portland games studio Elbowfish. He co-founded the company in 2012, with his daughter, game designer Leana Galiel. Elbowfish designs, develops and publishes meaningful games, across all media, featuring local talent. The company also offers Playful Design consulting to select clients. David has more than 25 years of broad-based experience as internet entrepreneur, senior executive, strategic consultant and mentor. In addition to his pioneering work in virtual reality and massively multiplayer online (MMO) games, David has designed and led integration of interactive entertainment into film, television and education productions. Over his varied career, David has worked as transmedia storyteller, online community developer, new media advisor to government agencies, strategic online consultant to US Senate & House campaigns, nonprofit leader of a global peace organization and professional composer & performing musician. His pro bono work ranges from director of the Boston Computer Society’s Virtual Reality Group in the 1980’s, to executive committee member of the nation’s first Creative Economy organization in 2003. Most recently, he was co-organizer of Portland Games for Change and advisor to ChickTech, a Portland-based nonprofit that supports women in technology careers. David moved from Boston, MA to Portland, OR in 2008.


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