With Facebook launching its latest headset for VR, what does this mean for the future of business?
We are now all used to using technology in our business – Zoom meetings, video conferences, online training; Covid 19 had made sure of it. Covid 19 has sped up our acceptance of technology as being core to business continuity and consequently business survival.
At Interact we have been using and installing communication systems for many years, in fact, we pride ourselves in being at the forefront of business communication technology. We like to keep our ear to the ground and we are always looking out for what will be the next trend. It’s our business to do this and keeps us ahead of the game.
So, our prediction for the next big influence for business: Virtual Reality.
In the past VR was out of the wish list of most businesses and individuals – the cost was excessive and the technology and computing power needed far exceeded what the average user had access to. Now that’s all set to change with the introduction of the affordable and easy to use Oculus Quest 2.
It’s lightweight, flexible and easy to use. In the past, you had to have ample space, unpack, plugin and keep the wires free. The Oculus Quest is the first headset to change that. It doesn’t require any cords, sensors or even a PC. With the Quest, you can just clear a spot in your living room, or even just stay seated and you are all set for your VR experience. We are naturally very excited about the positive response the Quest has had from the early testers.
This week the Interact team have been brainstorming how we predict VR will be used in the workplace.
He is our top four VR in the workplace predictions:
Training
Most of us learn better by doing. Just look at how pilots learn how to train by using flight simulators. Similarly, VR can be used in workplaces to teach staff by ‘doing.’ From teaching staff how to fry chicken at KFC or preparing rock climbers for tricky situations.
Recruitment
In our socially distancing world and with us having to recruit staff using email, video conferencing tools and phone calls, it is still be challenging to connect with a job candidate. It is far more difficult to tell if an individual is a good fit for your company based on a few emails and video calls. However, if HR mangers can incorporate VR into the job interview process, both the recruiter and the candidate can feel more connected and can have more honest exchanges.
Communication
Video conferencing tools such as Zoom and BlueJeans have been able to capitalise on the rise in flexible working and VR is a natural progression. Why stare at a screen of eight faces when you can sit with them around a virtual boardroom table, in a virtual office?
Product Development
There are barely any limits to how VR can be used to design, test and experiment with new products and services with no risk to staff and significantly reduced costs.
What do you think? Do you see yourself using VR in your workplace?
