The business landscape has drastically changed in the blink of an eye. As a result of the global coronavirus pandemic, governments have imposed travel restrictions and lockdowns. Brick-and-mortar shops have closed, and all enterprises suddenly have to manage an entirely remote workforce. In this article, we focus on how extended reality technologies such as augmented and virtual reality can help enterprises when it comes to managing their workforce.
Impact of Mandated Remote Work on the Workforce
To stay afloat in these challenging times, businesses must find efficient ways to collaborate and keep the remote workforce productive. Modern tech companies are more than equipped to handle this sudden transition to a completely remote work setting.
However, smaller companies are not prepared for such a large-scale transition. The majority don’t have the infrastructure and technology to do so. Some also lack training on how to handle remote work. They may not also have the necessary collaboration tools to meet the demands of their remote workforce.
With cities enforcing work-from-home policies, these companies are hastening to equip their employees with the tools they need for remote work to ensure business continuity. One way to do this is by utilizing technology and cloud-based productivity tools. For instance, companies are now relying on videoconferencing solutions, VR and AR tools, and VPNs to enable communication and collaboration within the remote workforce.
Utilizing XR to Ensure Productivity Amidst Coronavirus
To ensure productivity and a more effective remote workforce in times of coronavirus, companies are utilizing XR solutions like augmented and virtual reality apps. These tools enable an immersive collaboration where people can share ideas, content, and files in real time.
1. The Wild
The Wild is an immersive platform designed for architects and environmental designers. It enables them to work together in a virtual space and share content in real time. Moreover, there are tools for sketching and creating prototypes that allow architecture and design firms to maintain services even as they work remotely. Users can access The Wild on desktops, iOS, as well as HTC Vive, Oculus Quest, Oculus Rift, and Windows Mixed Reality.
2. VRtuoso
“The PowerPoint for VR”, VRtuoso is mostly used for immersive learning and sales. It provides tools for creating VR presentations and training using slides with 360-degree and two-dimensional content. Companies can use this for team presentations or for product presentations for customers. It allows users to get real-time feedback and works with any VR headset.
3. vSpatial
vSpatial is an augmented and virtual reality platform that seeks to revolutionize the way we work. To help businesses affected by coronavirus, they have now waived subscription fees. The vSpatial Workspace is free for use, including all its premium features.
Users can access the software on Mac, Windows 10, various Oculus VR headsets, Vive, Valve and Windows MR to provide an immersive experience that combines XR headsets with cloud-based virtual rooms. In addition, they can collaborate in real-time through avatars that are virtually in the same environment. Tools allow voice AI messaging, 3D presentations, and content sharing.
4. Hyperfair
Hyperfair, designed for enterprise events, enables businesses to enhance customer engagement. It’s a good platform to market products and services in 3D and VR. Customers and company reps can create interactive avatars that engage in an immersive environment. They can also integrate videos, PDFs, product features, slides, and other content into the environment. Remote teams can also utilize this software to chat, share content, and conduct training and presentations.
5. Spatial
Spatial transforms any room into a shared augmented workplace. Users can teleport realistic avatars and interact as if they were in the same place. Through this software, remote workforce can brainstorm ideas, share videos and files, and collaborate on projects using their PC, mobile phone, Quest, HoloLens or any AR/VR-equipped device.
Leveraging XR to Support Remote Work
To sum up, the business landscape can rapidly change in an instant. Because of this, it’s crucial for enterprises to implement solutions that can help them adapt more effectively. As the coronavirus pandemic pushes enterprises to enforce remote work policies, XR technology can serve as a solution for businesses of all sizes. By leveraging virtual and augmented reality, businesses can manage their remote workforce and also utilize tools for better collaboration.
