Procreation and Interprefy partnership

Procreation and Interprefy partnership

by | Business, Corporate, Featured, Services, Virtual Events

Procreation are delighted to announce their new partnership with Interprefy

For twenty years Procreation has been providing clients with translation, captioning and sign language services. This has been for live, pre-recorded and edits of events across the full spectrum of hybrid, in-the-room and fully virtual. 

Over this time we have worked with a number of superb third-parties, seamlessly integrating their solutions into our range of products.

“With the steep rise in the demand for hybrid solutions and event apps, plus the adoption of inclusive event technology, it made perfect sense for us to formalise a long-term partnership – and Interprefy was the obvious choice.” Matt Francis, CEO

By integrating Interprefy into our multiple event offerings, we can offer a more modular, time and cost-effective solution to all of our clients – old and new.

If you need an event app, or a hybrid or fully virtual event solution that incorporates any translation solutions, get in touch today – we can definitely help!

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How does Blockchain work?

How does Blockchain work?

by | Blockchain, Business, Corporate, Cryptocurrency, Featured, Web3

Blockchain use cases are vast and varied, but to understand how blockchain works, and how useful it really is, we need to first look at the technology that surrounds it, and how this fits into the new emerging digital landsdcape. The term Blockchain is used daily in the media, but many individuals, and businesses, are uncertain what this technology does, how it can be used, and the impact it will have on our lives. Web3, NFT’s, cryptocurrencies and the metaverse are all part of the story, so here we dive into a few basics around this technology, how it will not only drive the next evolution of the internet, but change many aspects of our everyday lives.

What is blockchain?

Blockchain is a digital technology that allows for the creation of a secure and decentralized ledger of transactions. What does that mean? In a blockchain network, transactions are authenticated through a process called consensus. This involves multiple participants in the network, known as nodes, working together to verify and validate each transaction.

To authenticate a transaction on a blockchain network, the following steps are typically followed:

  1. A user initiates a transaction, which is broadcast to the network.
  2. The transaction is received by multiple nodes on the network.
  3. Each node independently verifies the transaction, ensuring that it is valid and complies with the network’s rules and regulations.
  4. If a transaction is deemed valid by a majority of the nodes, it is added to a block of transactions, along with a unique code called a “hash.”
  5. The block is then added to the existing blockchain, forming a permanent and immutable record of the transaction.

This process of consensus ensures that transactions on the blockchain are secure and cannot be altered or tampered with once they have been added to the blockchain. It also ensures that the network is decentralized and not controlled by any single entity.

Blockchain is often used in the context of cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum and Bitcoin, and NFTs (which we go into in a moment), but it has many other potential uses. Some use cases for blockchain technology include:

• Financial transactions: Blockchain can be used to securely record financial transactions, such as the transfer of money or other assets. This can help to reduce fraud and improve the speed and efficiency of financial transactions.

• Supply chain management: Blockchain can be used to track the movement of goods through a supply chain, providing a transparent and immutable record of each step in the process. This can help to improve the efficiency and accountability of the supply chain.

• Identity management: Blockchain can be used to create secure digital identities, which can be used to verify the identity of individuals or organizations online. This can help to reduce identity fraud and improve the security of online transactions.

• Voting: Blockchain can be used to create secure and transparent voting systems, allowing for the secure and transparent recording of votes. This can help to improve the integrity and trustworthiness of elections.

• Medical records: Blockchain can be used to securely store and manage medical records, providing patients with greater control over their personal health information and allowing for more efficient sharing of this information among healthcare providers.

virtual networking

What is an NFT and how are they used?

NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, are a type of digital asset that is created on a blockchain network. They are unique and cannot be replicated or replaced, which makes them valuable in many different contexts.

One of the key ways that NFTs are used with blockchain technology today is in the creation and trading of digital collectibles. These are unique digital assets, such as art (check out Bored Ape Yacht Club) , music (such as Royal), virtual items (for example Gucci Vault Land and Gucci Town), and virtual real estate (one example being Ethereum Towers), that are authenticated and verified on the blockchain. This allows for the creation of a secure and transparent marketplace for these assets, where they can be bought and sold by fans and collectors.

Another common use for NFTs is in the creation of decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. NFTs can be used as collateral for loans or other financial transactions, providing a unique and verifiable asset that can be used to secure these transactions.

A growing area for NFTs is as digital tickets for events. Instead of physical tickets, event organizers create unique NFTs for each attendee. These NFTs are then used to verify the identity of the attendee and grant them access to the event or series of events. As well as making event ticketing more efficient, this also helps reduce fraud and improve overall security.

NFTs in events can also be used as digital souvenirs or collectibles. Event organizers can create unique NFTs to commemorate the event, and these NFTs can be sold or given to attendees as a way of remembering the event. This helps to increase engagement and create additional revenue streams for event organizers.

The use of NFTs with blockchain technology allows for the creation of unique and verifiable digital assets that can be traded and used in a wide variety of contexts.

virtual networking

How does this work in relation to Cryptocurrencies?

One well-known blockchain brand is Bitcoin, which is a cryptocurrency that uses blockchain technology to securely record and verify financial transactions. Bitcoin was the first successful implementation of blockchain technology, and it remains one of the most well-known and widely used cryptocurrencies today. Other well-known blockchain brands include Ethereum and Solana, which are popular platforms for building decentralized applications, and Ripple, which is a blockchain-based payment network. There are also many other blockchain companies and projects, each with their own unique features and applications.

While Cryptocurrencies are not in themselves NFT’s, they can be used in conjunction with NFTs in a few different ways, including:

1. Decentralized financial applications

NFTs and Crypto can be used together in the creation of decentralized financial applications. NFTs can be used as collateral for loans or other financial transactions, and these transactions can be facilitated using Ethereum or other cryptocurrencies. This can help to create a more secure and efficient financial system, and can enable new types of financial services.

2. Digital assets collectibles

Another way that NFTs and Cryptocurrencies can be used together is in the creation of digital collectibles. As we have mentioned above, NFTs can be used to authenticate and verify the ownership of unique digital assets, such as art, music, virtual items, tickets for events and in some cases virtual real estate. These assets can then be bought and sold using Ethereum or other cryptocurrencies, creating a secure and transparent marketplace for these assets.

The use of NFTs and Crypto together has the potential to offer many benefits, such as increased security, improved efficiency, and the creation of new types of digital assets and financial services.

virtual networking

What is Web3 and how is it used?

Web3, also known as the “decentralized web,” is a term that refers to the use of blockchain technology to create decentralized applications and services. It has widely been acknowledged as the next iteration of the internet, leading us into a new way to experience the digital world, beyond the two dimensional websites and apps of today. The metaverse is a series virtual worlds, accessed via a browser or through VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) experiences. These are predominantly being built in Web3, and although still at a very early phase, it is widely thought these platforms will become the primary way in which we interface with Web3 applications.

Web3 applications can be used to improve various aspects of business, and some potential use cases for Web3 include:

• Supply chain management: Web3 applications can be used to create decentralized supply chain management systems, allowing businesses to track the movement of goods through the supply chain in a transparent and immutable manner. This can help to improve the efficiency and accountability of the supply chain.

• Financial transactions: Web3 applications can be used to create decentralized financial services, such as peer-to-peer lending platforms and decentralized exchanges. These applications can offer greater security and transparency compared to traditional financial services, and can help businesses to reduce costs and improve the speed of transactions.

• Data storage and management: Web3 applications can be used to create decentralized data storage and management systems, allowing businesses to store and manage data in a secure and decentralized manner. This can help to improve the security and accessibility of business data, and can enable businesses to comply with data protection regulations.

The use of Web3 in business has the potential to offer many benefits, such as increased security, improved efficiency, and enhanced transparency.

virtual networking

Should my company be using blockchain?

There are several potential reasons why a company might want to use blockchain technology. Some of the key benefits of using blockchain include:

• Increased security: Blockchain technology offers a high level of security, as it uses advanced cryptography to protect the integrity of the data stored on the network. This can help to prevent data breaches and other security incidents, making it an attractive option for companies that handle sensitive information.

• Improved efficiency: Blockchain technology can help to improve the efficiency of many business processes, such as supply chain management and financial transactions. This can help to reduce costs and improve the overall performance of company operations.

• Greater transparency: Blockchain technology allows for the creation of transparent and immutable records of transactions, which can help to build trust and improve accountability.

• Enhanced customer experience: The use of blockchain technology can improve the customer experience, for example by making financial transactions faster and more secure. This can help to build customer loyalty and drive business growth.

Overall, the use of blockchain technology can offer many potential benefits for companies. However, it is important to carefully evaluate the potential costs and benefits before implementing any new technology, to ensure that it aligns with your company’s goals and objectives.

In conclusion

As you can see, the potential applications for blockchain are vast and varied, with many technologies involved to create new and exciting use cases. The technology is constantly evolving, and it is likely that we will see more and more creative and innovative uses emerging which will make blockchain even more powerful as a tool for businesses in the future.

Procreation builds immersive 3D worlds for workplace solutions, virtual and hybrid events.

Contact us to find out how we can help you embrace the Web3 and Metaverse future.

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Unmissable features for Virtual Events: Network Café

Unmissable features for Virtual Events: Network Café

by | Business, Corporate, Education, Virtual Events

Virtual Event Feature spotlight – Networking Café

Virtual Event platforms and technology have become more and more sophisticated in recent times, and here at Procreation we are pioneers in this field so we’re always moving things forward.

We create and handcraft the very best experiences for our clients and with that comes a string of excellent features that can be used within a virtual or hybrid event. 

Here we’re putting a spotlight on the Network Café feature that is available on our platform and to all of our customers.  It’s a powerful and easy to use tool that increases and enhances networking capabilities, and is an excellent way to add further engagement opportunities during your virtual and hybrid events.  Read on to find out how it works.

What is the Network Café?

With our Network Café, attendees  can meet up with people they want to talk to, share information, and discover new connections.  And your cafe can be built in a way that is totally tailored to your audience’s needs, and works within the parameters and structure of your event.

Network Cafe

How does the Network Café work?

Here are a few details on the ins and outs of the Network Café including things you can do with it and how it works in practice…

  • Themes and topics

Assign themes and topics to specific tables so that attendees can see what is being discussed, in detail, and join a table that’s relevant (or interesting) to them.

  • Multiple cafes

We know that every virtual event or virtual experience is unique – as it would be if it were in person.  Therefore, multiple cafes can be created across a single ‘experience’ or event to cater for the most complex set-ups.  This includes various content tracks, topics and discussion areas and physical ‘zones’ within a virtual venue or environment.

  • Optimum size

In our experience we’d say no more than 8-10 people per table is ideal to encourage interaction.  Our tip?  Think of this as you would a live event.  If you think it would work in person, then these numbers will almost certainly work well online too.  Remember, small groups and conversation are key when it comes to networking so be sure not to overcrowd a networking table.  We would say that it’s better to have smaller numbers across several tables and with high quality conversation rather than a crowded table that perhaps doesn’t allow those who want to talk, to do just that.  The beauty of the Network Café is that the flexibility of the set up is totally open so you can decide how it works best for you, your audience and the style of your Virtual Event.

  • Attendees choose for themselves

Attendees choose which table to join and will enter into a group video meeting on their chosen table.  This may sound simple when it’s put into layman’s terms (and it is!) and the joy of this set up is that it’s easy to use, accessible to all and really does encourage attendees to get involved with topics and people that inspire them.  The engagement results speak for themselves.

  • Assign facilitators

In order to keep discussions focussed, it’s important (as you would do in real life), to assign a facilitator to keep things on track.  Depending on the nature of your event, facilitators can glean some excellent insight when they are able to be involved in the discussion first hand.

  • Text chat

Cafes and tables all have separate text chat. This means that conversation and interaction can happen on every level and can be kept private if required.

  • Time of the essence? No problem

If your event has a timed element to it, the Network Café can be set to a specific time limit.  Speed networking is a commonly used practice at many business events and has been for several years.  It can not only be fun, but it is often a highly productive form of networking when the ice must be broken quickly!

  • Keep in touch with all tables

With our Network Café, there is the ability to ensure that all tables remain in touch; with each other or indeed with a central source such as the conference producers and hosts.  Global notifications are easy to create and push out across all tables to ensure key messages such as time keeping, or something else logistical, is managed centrally and the event remains on time and on track.

  • Send invitations

You can easily invite contacts you are keen to connect with to join you in the café.  It’s really simple to use and, because of this, it gets used well!  Many of the teams who have used this excellent feature have said that it breaks down many of the existing barriers of traditional networking and that it’s something they’d like to do more of moving forward.

virtual networking

Why should I consider this feature?

The Network Cafe is an intuitive and great way to strike up conversations with people you want to connect with, or about topics you want to learn more about. Feedback from our clients say this is better than face-to-face as it is a more structured way to find and collaborate with like minded people outside of more formal breakout sessions, roundtables or masterclasses.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this article on our Virtual Event Feature Spotlight – Networking Cafe. Want to know more?  Contact one of our team today to arrange a chat – we’d love to show you just how the Network Café works and how it could be integrated to make your next project a huge success.

Book a time with one of our team to discuss your next project

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Gen Z in the workplace: what you need to know

Gen Z in the workplace: what you need to know

by | Business, Corporate, Education, Virtual Events

Gen Z – the next generation of workers

Gen Z is the next generation of workers and leaders, and they are already making their mark on the workplace. Data shows that by 2025, Gen-Z workers will make up 27% of the workforce. Gen Z (also known as “iGen”) have grown up with technology and it has shaped their lives in many ways – from what they buy to how they communicate with people. Their use of computers, tablets, smartphones and other devices means that they expect everything to be fast, easy-to-use, visually appealing and social by nature. The same can be said for how they want to work. Let’s take a look at some key characteristics that set Gen Z apart from previous generations.

Digital transformation

Generation Z are considered the most entrepreneurial generation yet

Gen Z (or those born between 1995 and 2010) are hailed as the most entrepreneurial generation yet. They’re also the most diverse and connected generation in history. Gen Z has been described as “digital natives,” meaning they never knew a world without technology (they were born into it). And because of that, Gen Z is the most digitally savvy generation to date.

This group grew up during a time of massive global change—a time when people around the world were becoming more connected than ever before thanks to technology like smartphones and social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter. Thanks to these factors, Generation Z has a unique perspective on life: they know nothing but being connected 24/7; they believe that everyone deserves equal rights; they expect everything from their employers (and bosses).

“When it comes to certain values, attitudes and expectations, there may be some significant differences in how members of different generations approach their lives, especially in the space of work.”

Forbes, 2021

They will bring strong digital skills to the workplace

You’ll notice that the landscape of Gen Z workers is already different from that of previous generations. Because they’ve grown up with digital skills, Gen Z will bring a certain level of digital fluency to their new jobs.  Gen Z is a highly savvy workforce.  When starting their first job, almost every Gen Zer will be skilled and knowledgeable in the digital space.  They will be accomplished at social media and easily able to learn sophisticated programs that they’ll need to do their job.

To illustrate how important digital skills are for today’s workplace, here are some examples:

  • Writing code for web applications or mobile apps
  • Designing websites and landing pages using HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript
  • Creating graphic design images using Adobe Photoshop or InDesign
  • Developing computer programs (web apps) by writing in C++/JavaScript/PHP

It’s therefore vital for employers to have up to date workplace technology that supports this skillset or it’s likely they’ll be disappointed.

Generation Z

What does Gen Z want from work?

Gen Z want autonomy, project-based work and flexible hours

  • They’re more likely to work for themselves than previous generations.
  • They’re more likely to take on freelance work
  • They’re more likely to be self-employed
  • They’re more likely to start their own businesses
  • They’re also more likely to work remotely
  • According to McCrindle Gen Z’s are expected to work 18 jobs across 6 careers and live in 15 homes in their lifetime
  • A study found that 58% of Gen Z workers were willing to work nights and weekends if it meant achieving a higher salary.

They expect their work to be purposeful and meaningful

While Gen Zers may have grown up in a digital age, they still want a real-world job that has meaning. A recent study by Gallup found that 70% of college students said they would rather work for a small business than a large corporation because of the opportunity to make an impact on society. It’s also important for them to see how their work impacts others—62% said being able to do so was important. They want it all: flexibility, creativity license, purposeful careers with lots of opportunities for growth and fostering relationships with co-workers who feel like family members.

They need a strong employer brand

A strong employer brand is essential to Gen Z’s success. This means not only knowing what you are looking for and posting job openings, but also showing that you care about your employees and understand their needs and cater for these.

Gen Z employees want regular feedback and development opportunities

They need to know how they are doing, and what they need to do to improve. When it comes to feedback, 60% of Gen Z workers want direct, frequent communications and check-ins with their supervisors for performance evaluation.  They also want to know how their performance is measured, so that they can track their progress over time. This all adds up to a desire for regular conversations around career growth and development plans.

How employers can adapt for Gen Z

Companies need to provide a good experience for Gen Z or risk losing out on talent and innovation.  Whether you’re an employee or a company looking to hire new talent, there are key things you need to know in order to attract and retain Gen Z:

An experience worth sharing on social media

According to LinkedIn CEO Jeff Weiner, “Gen Z needs to see their career as something worth sharing on social media.” Understand that this generation of workers grew up using social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram (two sites where employers can post jobs) so it’s imperative as an employer or employee that you create content that will resonate with them!

Flexibility

It’s important that your workplace offers flexible work environments so that employees can balance both personal time with work obligations whenever necessary (especially since half of all millennials have children).   According to recent research by Rainmaker Thinking, over 46% of Gen Z won’t take a job without flexibility.

Facilitate collaboration

Workplaces should also offer collaborative spaces where teams can meet online face-to-face instead of relying solely upon e-mail correspondence between colleagues who may live far apart geographically speaking; this helps promote team building activities by providing opportunities for one another outside of normal working hours which ultimately improves productivity levels within departments around campus too!  Being set up for hybrid working is a must.

In summary

Companies need to be prepared for the challenges and opportunities that Gen Z brings to the table. They will bring a fresh perspective and different expectations from previous generations, so it’s important that businesses are ready for them. The good news is that using means like Virtual Events, Hybrid Events, Virtual Experience Centers and collaborative online workspaces, there is still time for companies large and small to prepare for this generation takeover!  Through continuous education, training programs, collaborative online workspaces and career development opportunities, employees can evolve with the company as needs change over time.

Contact Procreation today to discuss how our market leading collaborative workplace solutions can help your organisation engage with Gen Z and the future workforce.

Book a time with one of our team to discuss your next project

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Understanding what the Metaverse really is

Understanding what the Metaverse really is

by | Business, Construction, Corporate, Education, Marketing, Virtual Events

Do we really understand what the Metaverse is?

There’s been lots of discussion about the Metaverse in the last year or so, with businesses scrabbling to stake their claim in it, but it’s clear that it’s still very unclear to many what it actually is. While many technologists may have a good handle, in their own mind, as to what it’s about and the possible future applications, the rest of the world still don’t really understand what the Metaverse is, and what it really means.  Many don’t know what impact it’s likely to have on our daily lives personally or professionally.

“There has been, and will continue to be “a growing focus on integrating the digital and physical worlds using the Internet.” 

Verified Market Research

Frequently asked questions

There are lots of questions, and here are a few that we’ve heard more than once so you’re not alone if you’ve asked yourself any of these…

  • What is the Metaverse?   
  • Is it owned by Meta (previously known as Facebook)?  Or is it owned by someone else?
  • Is it a game like Minecraft, Roblox or Fortnight?
  • Will we all start walking around with VR headsets on and have chips in our arms?!

In short, there are many questions unanswered and many developments continually unfolding. However, the Metaverse is not something that’s going to happen overnight, but change is most certainly coming and it is important to recognise how it will affect our lives so we can use it to shape our future. Here’s our (hopefully simple) take on what the Metaverse is and what it is likely to mean for us as a species moving forward.

What does it all mean?

First let’s look at the wording.  The word “Meta” is derived from the Greek μετά, which encompasses a wide array of meanings, such as “with”, “after”, “alongside”, “on top of”, “beyond” and “greater than” (BBC, 2021). The word “Metaverse” was first coined in 1992 by Neal Stephenson in his science fiction novel Snow Crash, where two parallel worlds – physical and virtual, exist as one.

What the Metaverse will actually be in the future hasn’t been decided yet and it will be guided by technological advancement and its subsequent adoption (or not) in the world. However, if we were to use the information available right now and the technology being used, the widely recognised definition of the Metaverse is as follows:

The Metaverse is… “A persistent (always on) simulated digital environment with a blend of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality, Blockchain, and other technologies. These technologies are used to develop highly immersive 3D virtual world experiences for an unlimited number of users. The Metaverse enhances the internet experience by creating a virtual world in which users can, among other things, conduct business & training, learn, socialize, engage in immersive games, buy and sell virtual real estate, and enjoy immersive entertainment.”

the metaverse

Still lost?!  It’s okay if you are!

To put it simply, the Metaverse is an aspiration. It is not a singular thing or action,  company or platform, but a term that can be described as the next major wave of computing and networking.  

The Metaverse is the next phase and evolution that started with Supercomputers (1960’s), to personal computing (1980’s), the internet (1990’s), smart phones and cloud computing (2007…). Next up, the Metaverse.  It’s not a video game or virtual reality in its own, but it is a blend of several technologies that will enrich the internet as we know it.

What is the Metaverse?

This remains to be seen, and will develop in time, but it is likely that the Metaverse will combine immersive experiences, augmented reality and 3D experiences that are continually changing and affected by the people who use them. The Metaverse will allow humans to interact in a unified way, creating an individual sense of presence, experiencing virtual worlds simultaneously, using hardware that has yet to be invented, and on platforms that are far more sophisticated than the ones we know today.

An important part of this development is interoperability which Wikipedia defines as “the ability of computer systems or software to exchange and make use of information.” 

The internet as we know it is interoperable; meaning you can take one ‘thing’ (i.e. an image) from one platform (i.e. Facebook), upload this to another platform (i.e. Instagram), turn it into a video using a video editor (i.e. iMovie) and upload it as a presentation to your website or YouTube (as an example.)  The Metaverse is likely to be similar, insomuch that different technologies and platforms will be able to talk to each other, seamlessly and safely, but in a more sophisticated way than we’ve ever seen before.  

We can group together technologies that we often categorize on their own such as social media, the internet, mobile and live streaming and understand that these technologies are the result of the enhanced capabilities of the internet as it’s evolved.  For example, Facebook started as a platform on personal computers, and although successful, only saw hypergrowth when mobile became commonplace. We can expect a similar level of jump in the type of things we do, and how we do them, when the Metaverse matures.

metaverse

How will the Metaverse change my life?

There are many elements that will affect the Metaverse’s development and movement from a ‘concept’ to reality for the everyday person.  Things that we can expect to change?  Here are a few thoughts to get you thinking:

  • The hardware and devices we’ll use.  We weren’t designed to spend our lives on a screen, and this is likely to change.  Items such as high quality cameras and scanners may be incorporated into future buildings and public areas which then allows us to interact with technology differently to how we do today. Wearable technology will improve such as smart glasses from the likes of Snap and Magic Leap, plus Meta’s next Quest 3 headset is destined to raise the bar in 2023. Do you remember before smart watches were even a thing? 
  • Computing power. To do more, computing power needs to exceed what is currently available. The scope of this ranges from bandwidth and infrastructure to the devices we use, and beyond.  This enhanced capability and will support higher quality real time rendered worlds and avatars, and faster networks and connectivity between larger numbers of people.
  • Platforms. We’re all used to several platforms that we use on a daily basis, but they will evolve, there will be new ones, and they’ll work differently and better.  From workplaces, training and social spaces, to entertainment virtual worlds and much more.
  • Experiences. People will be brought together in real time to virtual spaces, but with a level of presence not yet possible, and the ability to make eye contact, making each Metaverse experience an authentic and engaging one.
  • Payments, financial security and privacy. Payment ‘rails’ will make sure that there are robust networks for payments in this new era.  Decentralized platforms like Web3, NFT’s, blockchain and crypto such as Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL) and Polygon (MATIC) are just some of the new technologies that are part of the development of The Metaverse.

Finally, the content that occupies the Metaverse will define how we use it, and we will define what content we need to interact successfully in the Metaverse.  Technologist Matthew Ball likens the Metaverse to a Shopping Mall in this great example…

  • The Metaverse – The Shopping Mall – the ecosystem
  • The hardware – the escalator
  • The shops – the virtual platform/s

But in order to work, the Shopping Mall (or the Metaverse) needs real people to enter it and interact and it needs the right infrastructure to operate.

When will it arrive?

Well, although much of the Metaverse we refer to here is a vision of something in the future, many technologies are already here and being used today, albeit for professional applications. Platforms such as Nvidia’s Omniverse and Epic Games’ Unreal Engine have been used to successful effect in manufacturing and city planning with the creation of ‘Digital Twins’ – a real time, virtual copy of a city, factory or piece of machinery, allowing businesses to optimize efficiency and perform sometimes dangerous training within the safety of a virtual environment. Similar game engines are being used by Johns Hopkins University to perform spinal surgery enabling surgeons to see inside a patient’s bone and perform game changing operations. Procreation’s ImmersivePro platform is being used by a number of organisations as an ‘always on’ Virtual Experience Centre to host daily huddles, regular conferences and run training programmes with an integrated LMS. While these examples are not truly connected in one virtual world, they use elements of what is imagined to be the future Metaverse. More importantly they provide real world examples of how this technology can be applied.

In conclusion

It is just the beginning for the Metaverse, and it’s unlikely that one day it just ‘switches on’, but it’s certainly a space where individuals, businesses and organizations will come together to collaborate, explore, learn and create in multiple ways. 

“While we are at the early days of the Metaverse, it will advance very quickly. If companies don’t act now, they’ll find themselves operating in worlds designed by, and for, someone else.”

Paul Daugherty

Group Chief Executive – Technology & Chief Technology Officer, Accenture

The technology behind the Metaverse and its subtle but colossal shift could change everything about how we interact with each other online, how we work, how we create, and how we live.  There are indeed many unknowns ahead, but it’s anticipated that the Metaverse market will reach $824.53 billion by 2030 from $27.21 billion in 2020, (Verified Market Research, 2021).  Now that’s not to be sniffed at.  Watch this space.  It’s an exciting time.

What do you think about the Metaverse? Have you started your journey yet, and if so what have you discovered so far?  We’d love to hear your thoughts…

Get in touch with our team to discuss your next project, whether it’s virtual, hybrid or how we can help you get started in the Metaverse.

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How to create your own Virtual Environment

How to create your own Virtual Environment

by | Business, Construction, Corporate, Education, Marketing, Virtual Events

Designing your own Virtual Environment

A Virtual Environment is a fun way to engage with audiences, whether for a product launch or large-scale event. From e-learning and online education to product demonstrations, this technology enables you to immerse your audience in any location in the world with realistic sights and sounds.  The great thing?  You can also create Virtual Environments that are totally made up; the only limitation is your imagination!  Virtual Environments have the ability to engage audiences like never before, and in a way that can’t be replicated in real life.

What is a virtual environment?

A Virtual Environment is a computer-generated world that can be explored, interacted with, and experienced by an individual. Virtual Environments can be used for a variety of purposes, including business, entertainment, training and education.

Virtual Environments have several advantages over the real world in terms of hardware capabilities.

For example: it is possible to create virtual environments that are much larger than any inhabited place on Earth.  Love a specific venue in real life, but can’t go there because the building doesn’t have enough breakout rooms or a big enough plenary?  No problem!  

It is also possible for individuals to experience events in these environments at any point in time (for example: walking through New York while it’s snowing). Additionally, because they exist only within computers or other devices that connect to them via the internet, they don’t require physical space like traditional cities do. Virtual Environments are becoming increasingly popular thanks partly due their ability to allow users to interact with each other even though physically separated from one another.

Two people in a meeting

The logistics of creating a Virtual Environment

You now have a basic understanding of how Virtual Environments work, so you’re ready to create your own. We’ll provide you with some tips on how to plan your very own Virtual Environment, as well as the benefits and limitations of creating a custom-tailored experience.

The most important aspect of creating a Virtual Environment is deciding on its content. You’ve got plenty of options; you can make it look like a walk through of an art museum, a conference center, or an interactive educational sports stadium; you could even build one that’s designed based on a specific setting such as space, under the sea or in the middle of a major city. It all depends on what kind of message or experience you want to convey and what your objectives are.

Once you’ve decided on the type of Virtual Environment (or multiple types), it’s time to think about what exactly should go into the environment. When planning your content for your virtual environment, Virtual Experience Center or Virtual Event, we recommend thinking about what people need from it first.

 

  • What will they be doing? If they’re trying something new or learning something new, then make sure you’re providing clear instructions and guidance along the way with any necessary resources (such as introductory videos, instructional hot spots and welcome messages).

A bespoke Virtual Environment is a fun way to engage with audiences, whether for a product launch or large-scale event

A Virtual Environment is a fun way to engage with audiences, whether for a product launch, e-learning programme or large-scale event. Live streaming, breakout sessions and interactive educational content are all great ways to get your message across in a memorable way.

Onboarding employees is another good use of the technology when new employees can be quickly brought up to speed, remotely, in an environment that replicates their current or future workplace.

Two people in a meeting

Product demonstrations in a Virtual Environment

Using a Virtual Environment for product demonstrations is a great way to show off your products. Whether you are selling a product or service, a Virtual Environment is a great way to showcase your product or service. You can create a Virtual Environment for your product or service and set it up in the same way that you would if it was real life.

It’s also important to remember that when designing your own Virtual Environment, it needs to be user-friendly and easy to navigate through.  With this in mind you’ll make sure your users have an enjoyable and engaging experience when visiting the platform.

Virtual Experience Centers

Virtual Experience Centers (VECs) allow you to engage audiences wherever they are and provide on demand content all year round. They are customised around your brand, offering a truly unique experience for your target audience.  Again, a Virtual Experience Center can be created in a realistic setting, such as a showroom or laboratory, or one that is more conceptual.  The choice is yours!

To conclude

When it comes to designing your own Virtual Environment, there are a few key things that you want to keep in mind.

  1. First of all, what is the goal of this experience? What do you want people to take away when they visit your space?
  2. Secondly, how do we create an emotional connection between the user and the brand?
  3. Finally, how can we make sure that users have a productive and informative experience while they’re exploring our products or services? 

Need some help with a custom Virtual Environment for your next event, product launch or learning programme?  You’re in the right place!  Contact one of our experts today for a no obligation chat or a demo of Procreation’s market leading Virtual Event solutions.

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