Virtual Reality Headset Use for Business

Virtual reality is one of the primary technology trends experiencing a boom of growth.

At first glance, VR may seem more relevant for video gamers and entertainment than for businesses, but this could not be further from the truth.

There are many ways businesses are already leveraging virtual reality headsets for internal and external processes.

What exactly is virtual reality, and how can businesses implement it? Today, we’ll dive into exactly what you need to know about virtual reality for businesses.

What is Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated experience that users can interact with through a headset on a 3D scale. Virtual reality environments are quite different than the natural environment you see in front of you. VR adds to our existing reality with the use of objects and holographic images, allowing users to feel truly immersed in their surroundings. You can use virtual reality simulations for entertainment purposes, such as movies and gaming, and business, military, and healthcare training.

You can break down virtual reality into three categories:

• Fully immersive: Participants are fully engaged in a simulated environment
• Semi immersive: These only engage users in a partially virtual environment
• Non-immersive: They emoves most of the simulated aspects altogether—think everyday entertainment devices that involve a screen and controller, like video games.

Though it may seem futuristic, the technology behind virtual reality was actually invented in the mid-20th century. The first virtual reality head-mounted display, The Sword of Damocles, was created by computer scientist Ivan Sutherland in the 1960s. Since then, technology has improved tremendously, and these days virtual reality can feel just as authentic as the real world.

How Does Virtual Reality Work?

By utilizing a special headset—usually referred to as a head-mounted display, or HMD—virtual reality simulators display an altered environment to users. These headsets provide a physical lens through which users can view the simulated reality.

The headsets work in conjunction with a software source that generates images. In addition to headsets, virtual reality sometimes employs gloves, goggles, and treadmills designed to enhance the user experience. Virtual reality requires both hardware and a software component to function. The software creates the environment, while the hardware piece makes it possible for users to immerse themselves in this digitally-generated space.

But what really goes on behind the scenes? How does this technology provide such a realistic, intense experience for participants? Essentially, VR “tricks” the brain into thinking that what it sees is real.

VR does this by fully engaging a person’s senses, causing them to believe that each movement they take, every object they perceive is something authentic to their actual environment. For instance, 3D images can move with the user’s body, giving them the illusion of manipulation and control.

What are the Major Components of a Virtual Reality Headset?

There are several components included in a virtual reality headset. Headsets are fitted with a head strap that allows users to easily adjust the set around their heads. They also have a lens through which users can view the simulated environment. Some contain multiple lenses that might display both computer-generated images and real-world, physical images. Sensors and cameras are also built into HMDs.

What Should I Know Before Buying a Virtual Reality Headset?

VR headsets come with several benefits, and they can be an incredibly wise investment, but there are some things to consider before making a purchase.

First, you’ll want to keep your overall objective in mind. What do you intend to do with your HMD? What role will it play in your business? Will customers/clients or employees use it?

Pinpointing your goals for the headset will help you narrow down your options, prioritizing the most important features for your specific needs. As discussed previously, there are three main types of VR, and the headset you buy will depend on what kind of experience you’re looking to provide for your users.

Once you’ve defined and laid out your must-haves, there are some basic parameters you’ll want to research, regardless of what you’ll be using your headset for.

You must consider the resolution. Higher resolution displays make for a better, more realistic viewing experience, while low-resolution displays hinder the VR scope. Choose the correct display as well, as different displays offer different viewing experiences, and you must settle on one that matches your business needs.

The main types of HMD displays include OLED and LCD. OLED displays generate light, while LCDs use liquid crystals to transmit light. Of course, you’ll also need to account for the price. Entirely immersive VR systems tend to be more expensive than semi- and non-immersive systems, so you’ll need to decide on the correct fit and whether or not it fits into your budget.

Can I Use VR for Work?

You can absolutely use virtual reality for work. In fact, VR technology has become an increasingly helpful tool for businesses to communicate information and onboard trainees. It’s been advantageous during the pandemic as companies sought alternatives to in-person collaboration. VR has enhanced the professional world overall, providing new experiences and opportunities for virtual engagement.

What is the Purpose of VR in Business?

VR technology has fundamentally changed how we interact with the digital space. As such, businesses may use VR to fill any number of purposes, and the possibilities are—nearly—endless.

One of the most common uses for this technology in the workplace is training. VR simulations can, for example, introduce employees to realistic scenarios in which they’ll be expected to interact with customers. They might create a crowded retail environment in which trainees can navigate large numbers of people, thus becoming accustomed to dealing with the public before they’re thrown into the real thing.

VR can also benefit those working in construction, enabling architects to display their designs and work with clients to create various plans and ideas. Generally, clients appreciate viewing lifelike models of their product ideas. Architects can also benefit from learning more about how a particular design might look once it’s brought to full fruition. Overall, VR technology is a lifesaver for those working in creative industries because it offers a glimpse into the final product before it’s finalized.

Another upside to VR is that companies can hold virtual meetings and interviews. In the era of COVID, it’s become even more critical for businesses to find innovative solutions for keeping employees connected around the globe. Virtual reality simulations mimic actual conference rooms, providing an immersive experience with which current and potential employees can fully interact. These realistic environments are key to assessing mood and body language where individuals can’t interact physically.

The true value of VR lies in its ability to bridge the gap between conception and reality. Businesses can utilize this technology to imagine, create, and ultimately deploy solutions for many purposes.

Teksetra is Here to Help

Virtual reality allows businesses to train new employees in a safe, educational environment and test products and scenarios virtually before being used in the real world. In short, VR technology may be suitable for your business if you’re looking for a good “practice” model that will enable you to try things out before committing to them. This advanced prototyping eliminates many of the errors that fly under the radar until it’s too late for them to be corrected.

Teksetra can help your business get started with VR implementation today. Contact us to learn more about our services and what virtual reality can do to meet your company’s unique goals.