Virtual reality systems are getting a lot of press in the entertainment sector, but they may be able to show real advantages in business as well. Virtual reality systems such as the HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, and Microsoft HoloLens are targeted towards either creating an entirely virtual reality or augmenting real, existing surfaces with virtual features. In terms of business, this creates a rather unique opportunity: the ability to create an entirely virtual office.

Improving Collaboration

One of the major issues for remote workers is losing the ability to effectively collaborate. Remote workers often feel as though they don't have a presence in the office, but VR could change this. VR could be used to connect remote workers in a shared environment where they can see and interact with each other as though they were all in the same room together. This will make collaboration intuitive and fast; further, everyone would always know whether their collaborative partners were busy or available. 

Creating a Workspace

A virtual reality system doesn't have to be entirely virtual; you don't need to load into a virtual office. Augmented reality systems, such as the Microsoft HoloLens, can also be used to simply create a virtual workspace that users can overlay onto their own desk. This will allow for the sharing of documentation easily in a visual matrix; rather than having to understand text or phone descriptions, users would be able to actually see what the others were working on. This would also give employers the ability to standardize work spaces.

Easier Conferencing and Training

Finally, VR doesn't have to be used for all work that a remote worker completes. Instead, VR and augmented reality may simply become the preferred method of communication and conferencing. Rather than having to utilize video chats for complex discussions and demonstrations, three dimensional meetings and conferences can more easily convey the messages in the same amount of time. This could be very important for hands-on training that remote workers may find challenging.

The technology for a virtual office is not far away; in fact, a virtual office could easily be created with the development kits that are available now. There are multiple VR devices coming out for the consumer market this year, and though they may be expensive now, it's likely the price points will shift later on. For more information about the future of staffing, contact the employment solutions experts at OneTech today.