Introduction

From the first serviced office created back in the 1960s to now offices that are driven by technology, we have come a long way. Earlier workplaces were mere buildings held as permanent spaces to work and organize meetings, however, now technology-enabled services are shaping the work and work culture.

With the changing landscape of workspaces fueled by technology like sound masking, localized microphones, and other features associated with smart buildings, companies are becoming more responsive and reactive. One of the most recent tech trends to affect the workplaces is Virtual Reality.

Before exploring how VR can transform the entire work culture of a company, let us understand what it is.

What is Virtual Reality?

According to Investopedia, Virtual Reality allows a person to interact in an artificial three-dimensional space using electronic devices. It is a computer-generated simulation wherein a user gets a feel of a realistic environment.

There are enormous uses of VR technology including training and simulation. For instance, an individual applying for a driving license can now have hands-on experience of road driving through a VR setup. This has enabled learners to develop a little expertise before actually driving on the road, thus minimizing the possibility of an accident.

Let’s have a look at how VR is influencing the workplaces and transforming the company culture.

1. Virtual Office Tours

Virtual Reality enables clients to visit a business without stepping outside their homes. This is very valuable for companies who have international clients. A virtual office tour is a great tool to give an insight into the company’s culture to the clients.

2. Faster Product Development through Virtual Prototyping

Many companies are already using virtual reality technology to develop their product faster. For example, Raytheon helps its engineers and designers to interact with a digital prototype for product development.

Other industries could also use the same technology to fasten the prototyping process. This eliminates the need to work with clay models and the designers can view a life version of any design through a VR headset.

3. Organize Data Better

We live in a data-driven world and with access to so much data, companies need to keep their data organized for a positive impact on ROI. Companies can invest in a mixed reality room to manipulate data using a touch screen interface. Alternatively, VR headsets can also be used.

Integrating Virtual Reality for managing data can improve collaboration and is better for the environment.

4. Improved communication with the company

Remote working trends can be accelerated by using VR technology to connect to the employees through digital means.

VR technology can enable clients and remote workers to have a physical presence in collaboration sessions. This has the potential to enhance employees’ productivity, engagement in the work, and overall well-being of the employees. This has a significant impact on the company’s profits.

5. Virtual Reality Ad Options

With the rapid advancement in the advertising world, we can expect virtual reality ads and branded content to take over other types of ads. Many companies are developing technologies to allow marketers to develop virtual reality advertisements.

Youtube is one such platform that allows advertisers with virtual reality advertisement options. It recently integrated VR Technology in all the youtube videos allowing users to watch videos in virtual reality on both Ios and android.

Conclusion   

Virtual Reality is in its infancy and yet to be mainstream. Soon it will enter the mainstream and have a positive impact on workplaces. Its integration in the workplace promises improved employee engagement, better customer engagement, and increased profits.

Thus it is safe to say that Virtual Reality can transform a company’s culture by making it more personalized, engaging, efficient, and collaborative.

Authors Bio

Claire Mark is an investment and strategic planning consultant at  Alcor, a global investment bank. She’s best known for her insightful blogs on business growth, startups, small businesses, and investments. Claire also has a good network in the Finance industry, especially the investors’ community. Apart from her work, she loves to bake and go out for gadget-free nature walks.