For businesses adapting to today’s “new normal,” it may seem as though reality itself has shifted. Many companies are struggling to minimize costs without losing their capacity to take advantage of new opportunities. They also have to remain flexible to respond to a rapidly changing environment and increasing customer demands. This is why they need, like never before, the benefits that extended reality (XR) has to offer.
What is Extended Reality (XR)?
Extended Reality (XR)
Extended Reality is an evolving umbrella term for all immersive technologies. This includes ones we already know today—augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) plus those that may emerge in the future. All immersive technologies extend the reality we experience by either combining the real and virtual worlds or by creating a fully immersive experience.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality adds digital elements to a live view, often used by a smartphone camera. Examples of AR experiences include Snapchat filters, Pokemon Go, Houzz’s App, and Home Depot’s App.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality allows a complete sense of immersion for the user and shuts out the physical world. Using VR devices such as Pico G2 and HTC Vive Focus Plus, users can be transported to a variety of different environments, such as the middle of Antarctica or the pilot seat of an airplane.
Mixed Reality (MR)
Mixed Reality combines elements of both AR and VR, allowing real-world and digital objects to interact. Microsoft’s Hololens is a notable example of an existing mixed reality device. This device uses sensors and advanced optics that allow users to touch, feel, and move holograms in a way that feels natural.
How XR Benefits Businesses in Remote Learning
Improved Communication and Collaboration
Development teams can use XR technology when collaborating on projects, even when they aren’t together in the same city, let alone the same room. For example, in the field of innovation and design, remote team members can collaborate on complex visual data in real-time, allowing complex products to be co-designed simultaneously. This interconnectivity simplifies communications between remote teams and improves efficiency and quality control as the work continues.
Safer Training Environment
One of the best uses of XR technology in business is as a training tool. This is particularly true when it comes to individuals who work in potentially hazardous environments, such as those in the military, and those in the oil and gas industries. With immersive XR experiences, trainees can simulate these environments without being at risk. This technology speeds up the onboarding process for new employees, and recruits may take advantage of learning opportunities from a variety of compatible devices.
Reduced Training Costs
Remote learning with XR can help reduce corporate training costs. Rather than funding employee travel to training centers or operational sites, XR-based training can occur remotely — right at home. Additional costs can be cut in places where training involves expensive materials and equipment, with XR replacing the need for any physical material. Trainers themselves can also be part of the XR programming, so businesses can reduce faculty spending.
High Engagement and Knowledge Retention
Using XR for remote employee training makes the learning process more enjoyable and engaging. You can also enhance XR training with game elements. For example, an individual may earn experience points for correctly connecting and activating a virtual machine. Immersive experiences are also more interactive and memorable than traditional teaching methods, allowing for greater retention of knowledge.
Final Thoughts
When you embrace XR technology in business, your company will be able to deliver unparalleled experiences that people will never forget. With immersive technologies, employee training can be an efficient, exciting process that increases knowledge retention and reduces overall costs. Even more, XR allows employees of hazardous industries to train in safer environments. With extended reality at the core of your business, you can build a culture of digital transformation by using immersive technologies in employee training and continuously within remote workplaces.
Interested in getting started?
Start using ArborXR free today. If you have any questions, visit our website or email us at support@arborxr.com.