This morning a colleague forwarded an email for viral site called “Simpsonize me.” Brought to us by Burger King, this site has everything you need for a great viral campaign.

Basically you upload a photo of yourself, and it creates a Simpsons character based on it. Now the technology is not perfect, I had to tweak mine quite a bit to make it look (a little bit) like me, but it was so much fun, I didn’t really care.

Shortly after finding this, I happened across a post called “T.I.M.E – 4 Things Every Viral Campaign Needs,” which explains timing, incentive, mystery and ease is what you need for a successful viral campaign.

So, using simpsonizeme.com as an example:

Timing: The Simpson’s movie is coming out today- great timing.

Incentive: You get to find out what you look like as a Simpson’s character – plus if you forward it along, your friends will think you are totally awesome.

Mystery: Ok, I can’t explain this one, the email with the link came from someone else spreading the word, but undoubtedly I’m sure they did a great job.

Ease: using a quick and easy-remember URL (www.simpsonizeme.com), plus first screen give clear instructions on how to upload your photo. Anyone could do it.

My favorite part – the viral component – a button to send to your friends that says “Clog up your friend’s inbox!” Love it!