There's been a LOT of hype about the metaverse in recent months. I'm rather skeptical of the idea that we will somehow "live in the metaverse". However, I do see lots of opportunities for B2B services to take advantage of Virtual Reality technology.
The Metaverse is Not NewFirst off, the idea of the "metaverse" really is not new. In fact, it could be said that the internet itself is a metaverse. It's a virtual place where people meet socially, shop, provide products and services, learn etc.
And the word "metaverse" itself reminds of me of how hosting was "reinvented" by the phrase "the cloud". Really, the "metaverse" is a rebranding of virtual reality technology. It's essentially a much more immersive internet.
Examples of How B2B Services Can Utilise the Metaverse
Showcasing PrototypesImagine a truck manufacturer allowing its customer base to view new prototype trucks from all angles, even allowing them to step inside the cabin, look down at the dashboard, see how much space is available to the driver, their view out of the window...then they can even drive the truck on a virtual road an experience the handling of the vehicle. This would be possible in the metaverse. Truck manufacturers could save millions on developing one physical prototype after another. Their virtual prototypes would allow the manufacturer to get instant feedback from their customer base so that they could further refine it. Moreover, such a manufacturer can spot issues themselves via virtual test drives of these prototype vehicles. This is just one example of how products can be "created" via 3D modelling but only exist in the metaverse. Once a product has gone through enough prototyping in the metaverse, it will be ready for actual production in the real world.
Training and SupportSticking with the motorworld, imagine a mechanic training course that could allow students to pop the hood of a car and look around the engine - all from their own home. Moreover, they could look around ANY engine. They could lift up a virtual spanner and fit a new battery, change the oil etc. This kind of virtual environment is a quick way for students to familiarise themselves with where things can be found in the engine, the techniques involved in replacing parts. This kind of training can be done asynchronously in that the student can learn in their own time rather than in a lesson.
The Virtual OfficeImagine a virtual office where each worker is at their desk in a virtual environment. They can share documents, call quick meetings, communicate with each other - as if they're in a real office (when they might be thousands of miles apart). Such environments could help speed up workflow, and remind each worker that they're part of a team, and that they can call on their colleagues for help at any given moment.
These are just some examples of how the metaverse will help B2B services in the future. Saying that, the metaverse will just be another tool in the toolbox. It's important to separate the hype from reality.
Article kindly provided by prombgaming.com