Small Business AR/VR Technology Leverage Tips

The time is ripe for small-medium enterprises to make use of technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to accelerate business growth. In 2019, Malaysia’s Minister of Human Resources M. Kulasegaran spoke explicitly about the importance of AR/VR tech in the future of the country’s various industries, according to an article by Inavate. Global spending on AR and VR was predicted to reach US$160 billion by 2023, and this value has only increased due to the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is AR and VR?

Although AR and VR are often used in the same phrase, there are differences between both technologies. Augmented reality refers to the projection of virtual information to enhance the viewer’s native environment. On the other hand virtual reality is used to refer to technology that transposes a viewer into an entirely simulated environment altogether. Regardless, augmented reality and virtual reality both centre around creating an immersive digital experience for the user. They bring real, measurable benefits to companies looking for ways on how to accelerate business growth, as well as other key metrics like conversion rates, retention rates, and profit margins. 

Here are some ways these twin technologies have been helping businesses both big and small. 

1. AR/VR for marketing

The most straightforward application of AR/VR would be to use them as part of marketing strategies. Social media platforms like Facebook already have in place the ability to publish augmented reality ads. Additionally, these immersive experiences help boost brand awareness, visually differentiate a business from competitors and make engaging with customers a possibility in the age of social distancing. Google is also rolling out a “view in 3D” mobile search result feature for e-commerce platforms. Provided your product is optimised to rank high enough on search engine result pages, this will allow consumers to use augmented reality to view your product as if it were right before their very eyes.    

2. AR/VR for talent recruitment

The use of augmented and virtual reality technologies allow businesses to not only connect with tech-minded job candidates, but also attract talent from a rising pool of working millennials–many of whom may find themselves more at home in digital settings. Using VR or AR as part of the hiring process allows companies to put complex, and otherwise unobservable concepts in plain sight. For example, a healthcare tech company may want to simulate the way their revolutionary  technology works in the human body.  

If the job requires employees to be based in a vastly different environment, immersive technology can also provide candidates with “first-person” insight into the setting of their possible workplace and living environment. This streamlines the hiring process and helps the candidate to manage their expectations and gain a greater understanding of their job scope and suitability for the position. 

3. AR/VR for employee training

Although AR/VR is presently most well known as a customer engagement tool, these technologies can also be used to enhance the workplace experience and boost employee engagement. As an employee initiation tool, virtual and augmented reality can be used to simulate on-site scenarios to allow employees to learn new skills without logistical or locational difficulties, or real-time pressure from customers or managers. The use of AR/VR for employee training becomes even more attractive with jobs that pose certain risks, allowing new employees to practise their tasks without fear of harm or injury. Additionally, AR can also be used to subsidise training costs. While an initial investment in specialised gear is often necessary, things like AR/VR headsets or even mobile apps are reusable, and will offset the costs needed for guided lessons or training 

Expanding opportunities with the best of tech

Choosing to implement new technologies at any company will not be without growing pains. Yet, setting aside a strong team, resources and ample time will bear the fruit you deserve. Leveraging the advancements in tech is the only way forward. Aside from the power of AR and VR technology, other tools are set to redefine the way you can do business today. Get started with our blockchain guide for retailers or have a peek at all you need to know about cloud technology!