Harold - totally agree with you on this.

I think the whole scavenger hunt approach is much more manageable as well for organizations that don't hire en masse.

I wrote a brief article that outlines some ways of using web 2.0 tech in orientation programs that lean more to the informal (although the emphasis was on using technology). Perhaps it will spark ideas for some of your readers: http://www.hrvoice.org/new-tools-for-new-hires%e2%80%a8the-web-2-0-awaits/.

Holly