In a few years time we’ll go to work in the Metaverse. Or will we? This new space, this merge of different technologies, is on the rise. The use of VR technologies, immersive digital worlds and avatars that meet, speak and collaborate. We’re just in the beginning of the development of what will be the future of the internet. Exploring what the space could be used for: entertainment, meetings, conferences. But also training, product development and virtual offices.
Yesterday, I went on a trip to Mars in two minutes (courtesy of imitera). I also had the opportunity to host an evening dedicated to the JobTech Metaverse – exploring how immersive technology will come to shape the future of work.
We started off with an introduction to the Metaverse by pioneer Tomas Bendz at Around The Corner, followed by a virtual tour and hands-on examples from Katarina Noén (she/her) on how Ericsson are using the Metaverse for HR and internal training (ranging from how to build power skills or safety training when climbing up a telephone pole, to how to spread knowledge about the company’s sustainability mission). Lisa Boldt-Christmas shared how Hyper Island are training the next generation of XR professionals, and then Peter Säll at Imitera shared his view of what the labour market can learn from the gaming industry when it comes to using VR technologies.
The Metaverse is an opportunity, as Tomas Bendz so nicely put it. Right now we are just pioneering what is to come – trying it out, putting the tech to the test, and exploring what types of content can be enhanced through an immersive environment. Putting yourself in the shoes to try out a different occupation, meeting colleagues in a virtual office instead of having Zoom calls, safety training to lower accidents in the workplace.
We’re just getting started. What is to come is something we’ll build together. So be curious. Put on a VR headset and go visit Mars. Or the Amazons, or the depths of the ocean. Experience for yourself what it means to be totally immersed in a digital world. And understand what that experience really adds to your interpretation and understanding of the whole situation. What kind of content could you or your company bring to the table that would generate business or societal value in VR?
Thank you to The Park (and the rock star team of Helena Rex, Mikael Ahlström and Ebba Pecaza) for hosting us in your new co-working space dedicated to the Metaverse in Hammarby sjöstad. And to Olle Lundin and Lars Sjöström at Swedish JobTech for presenting this event together with us at Svenska Nomader; the fourth joint JobTech event this year! And also to Tankesmedjan Futurion and Hack for Earth Foundation for co-hosting the series together with us.
I’m all set to continue exploring and creating new experiences and values in the Metaverse going forward. So let’s continue the conversation! Ping me if you are up for a coffee and a journey of exploration in the beginning of next year ☕️
