Keas emerged from the shadows last week to reveal a gamified business aimed at motivating people to get in shape. George Kassabgi and Adam Bosworth, who previously headed up the Google Health programme, founded the company in 2008. To get people moving with the "Power of Play," Keas employs many of the game mechanics popularised by gamification, such as leaderboards, points, and team-based challenges. Complete weekly "to-dos" such as "eat only healthy snacks" and "get eight hours of sleep three or more times this week" to earn points. The game went viral among employees, with a reported 50 percent increase in physical activity among the nearly 60 percent who took part. In addition, the number of people eating fruits and vegetables has increased by a factor of two. Most importantly, 90% said they planned to keep playing the game. Despite its simplicity, the game remains enjoyable.

Manu Melwin Joy

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