Hive Wonderland
(Topia)
Quick-Start Guide
Navigating Topia is easy! Here are a few tricks to help you explore the space.
Getting In
Just a heads-up, Topia only works with Google Chrome Browser and Microsoft Edge.
Before you're even shown the door, you will be asked to allow Topia to access your microphone and camera. If you have more than one input, they will be in the pulldown menu.
You're then prompted to enter a Display Name.
There's no need to login or enter your email address, simply choose a name that will be your identifier in Topia.
The Basics
Being in Topia is just like being anywhere else in the world. Use this guide as you explore!
First, notice that you are represented virtually by your NB "Topi." You move Topi by pointing your feet and clicking! You can also move using the arrow keys, so be mindful!
Some objects contain links. When they do, your will turn into a pointing hand, like this one
If you ever experience a glitch, disconnection, or audio/video issue, take a breath, Refresh/Restart your browser. You will need to enter your name again, but it usually fixes the problem. Remember, that mantra is Take a breath, Refresh.
Now, let's take a look at the left side of your screen. See those icons? Well, they are everything you need while you're here in Topia. Let's take a look:
First, we have your Video and Audio Settings. You can also share your screen from here (more on that later).
Next, you can view all the Worlds.
Not to be forgotten is the calendar of Events.
Then, you can share your current Topia across social media to spread the word.
Finally, you can read all the secret messages being sent to you from other Topians.
So, here we are in the Video and Audio Settings. One of the nicest features of Topia is that we are always "present." In other words, unlike other conferencing platforms, you cannot turn your camera off.
But, you can Share Your Screen. This fills your camera window with your desktop view. This comes in handy if and when you are sharing anything in Topia.
As you can see from the screengrab, you can control all your devices from this tab.
Next in line is the Worlds icon.
This will show you other Topias that have a portal in your current Topia.
One of the greatest features is the Go To Portal button. Simply click on Go To Portal and your Topi will walk itself there!
Inter-Topia Travel!!
Huh?
That's right, you can travel to other worlds (Topias) through portals. Your will turn into a .
Click on Travel and you're off to a new world!!
From the Events button, you can view every event scheduled in the current and nearby Topia.
Similar to the Worlds directory, the Go To Event button will walk your Topi to the offering!
So, how do we send Messages in Topia?
Simple! Everyone's camera image features a little envelope. Simply click on the envelope to send a message to that person.
When someone sends you a message, you will notice the envelope on the left-hand side of the screen will glow red. Rejoice, you've got mail!
Go ahead and click the Share This World icon anytime.
The only way we can change the world is if everyone knows about the alternatives!
Plus, everything's better with friends!!
You've made it this far down the guide, so here's a little secret!
If you click on your own Topi, you'll find some fun!
Common Keyboard Shortcuts
While you can use either your mouse or the arrow keys to walk around in Topia, there are a couple of quick commands you might find useful, especially if you get lost.
These quickies will help you get a bird's-eye view of the Topia you inhabit. Bonus, they work on any website!
If you use a PC:
To ZOOM OUT:
PRESS
AND
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To ZOOM IN:
PRESS
AND
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To RESET:
PRESS
AND
If you use a MAC:
To ZOOM OUT:
PRESS
AND
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To ZOOM IN:
PRESS
AND
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To RESET:
PRESS
AND
Topia/Gathering Ettiquette
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You’ll need to join from a desktop, or laptop using Google Chrome Browser or MicroSoft Edge.
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Please include your preferred pronouns when entering your name.
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Use headphones/earbuds when possible.
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Please mute yourself during a workshop by clicking the microphone in your video box.
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To ask questions of the facilitator during a workshop, please send them a direct message by clicking on the blue envelope in their video box. (Your envelope in a circle on the left will turn red when you’ve got mail).
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If you are wandering in the event space and there is a broadcaster speaking, but you are not part of the workshop you can mute that broadcaster on your end by clicking their microphone in their video box.
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Click on the hexagons to explore shops, providers, and book one on one sessions.
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Be patient.
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Remember, Take a Breath, Refresh!