Wired has an article about how Hollywood pros–and I don’t mean the

actors–are using custom away messages on their Instant Messenger apps

to display their work availability. Basically, producers can now add

every gaffer, DP, grip, best boy, craft services schlub, lighting

director, etc. they would ever consider working with to their buddy

list, and have a quick rundown of who is available for a new project.

We’ve been trying to work out some ideas here at TR for enhanced career

services, probably with DICE, and I can’t help thinking that something

like this might be useful if married to our Contacts feature,

especially for our contractor and consultant audiences. Not sure how

this would work exactly. Just spitballing here.