Virtual and Augmented Reality on the Job
You have probably already seen virtual reality in big-box stores and been aware of augmented reality since Pokémon Go at the latest. At the height of that craze, parks were full of people throwing virtual balls at virtual creatures using their phones or tablets. Now virtual and augmented reality are finding their way into the world of work.
What Is Virtual Reality?
Virtual Reality, or VR for short, is a world created by computers that humans can see with the help of screens, special rooms, or VR glasses.
It sounds almost unbelievable, but it is true. Our senses can be stimulated by 3D videos, which are often combined with audio. As a person you feel like you are in the middle of a virtual world. For example, you could be standing at a trade fair, put on the glasses, and suddenly be rushing through the rain forest on a roller coaster – at least as far as your eyes can tell.
A little tip: try out virtual reality glasses the next time you are at an innovation fair or an electronics store. If you get dizzy easily, make sure to sit down. The unusual sensation can make you lose your balance.
Was Is Augmented or Mixed Reality?
Augmented reality, or AR for short, blends the real world with a virtual one. With the help of technology like a smartphone or glasses, you can see computer generated content. The real world is thus augmented by images and videos.
Pokémon Go is a prime example of mixed reality. With the smartphone app you can add virtual elements to any place, whether your office, a mountain top, or a lake, and view them on your screen.
So, enough theory, let’s talk about the uses of AR and VR at work.
Onboarding with Virtual Reality
Virtual reality and augmented reality provide two ways for cutting down on the frequent business trips typical at international companies. Trainings that take place in the scope of onboarding and product rollouts no longer require a flight to a specific location. Often, simply putting on VR/AR glasses suffices to get the exact same information as your colleague on another continent.
What Are the Advantages of VR/AR Glasses at the Workplace?
- Time zone independence
- Travel cost savings
- Efficient use of time
