Extended Reality for Business

Since the economic turbulence caused by the pandemic, the world has reassessed the way it works. For many, the drawn-out days of commuting to and from an office have since been replaced by the integration of technology, namely augmented and virtual reality. But what’s next for the world of work — and are we on the brink of another cultural shift in the way businesses operate across the world?

Well, you could say that shift is already well underway. Because through the introduction of extended reality (XR), global businesses have completely transformed the way they operate. But before we go any further by telling you how, let’s start by unpacking the term ‘extended reality’.

Extended reality, otherwise known as XR, is a catch-all which refers to virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and, sometimes, mixed reality (XR). It’s a platform that combines all immersive technologies to change the face of entertainment, marketing, training, remote working and many other aspects of our working and social lives.

With all that said, XR might not be a fit for every type of business. So without further ado, let’s zoom in a little closer.

Is XR right for your business?

Investing in the hardware and software required for extended reality isn’t cheap. But if it aligns with your corporate goals
and objectives, it could be the smartest investment you ever make. So before you make the leap to technology, here are some points to consider.

Does XR already exist in your sector?

If another organisation in your sector is already using XR, assess how they have implemented the technology and whether it improves their offering. By researching its current use, you might also gain a stronger sense of skills required to operate and maintain the software and equipment. With that said, if XR isn’t currently used in your sector, maybe taking a lead could make business sense. Let us know if you want a second opinion.

Is your service or product right for XR?

Although XR has made significant strides in business, it’s current potential might not be developed enough to add value to your product or service. In most cases, XR is used to replicate products, scenarios or events costly to replicate in real life. And while the technology can be used for a multitude of bespoke reasons, it’s worth checking its capability before making an investment.

Is your business capable of integrating XR?

Introducing extended reality into your business isn’t a quick fix. It’s something that takes time and will need to be steered by a clear vision throughout the entire integration process. As well as investing in hardware and software, you’ll also need to think about training staff to use XR as well as adapting processes for smooth integration.

If you require any more advice on any of these points, feel free to book a call with me.