The metaverse is more accessible than ever, and this virtual world has exciting applications for the workplace. The entire team doesn’t need VR headsets to explore a virtual world, and space doesn’t have to be created from scratch. Seems interesting? Yes, look at the way how companies are changing with a virtual office in the metaverse.
A gateway to innovation-metaverse
Investments in artificial intelligence soared in 2021. Yet, there are still many obstacles, from finding an IoT architect to keeping momentum in a virtual office.
Microsoft and Facebook are making their marks in this immersive, engaging, collaborative realm that combines virtual reality, augmented reality, and holograms. Many startups cater to hosting virtual events or training sessions in the same vein.
By the end of the year, it sure seems to be a worthy investment. Why do businesses take a step towards the metaverse? How are they embracing this opportunity? Let’s check that.
The commonplace for all employees
Although most employees work in an office setting, they may reside on multiple continents or cities. Virtual workspace provides a shared experience whether people work from home, satellite offices, or in a central office. Also, companies can use these spaces to reduce travel costs by bringing customers and clients into the meeting spaces.
Virtual offices can be a valuable substitute for in-person interactions as a communication medium. Virtual office space can provide a sense of physical presence, facilitating information exchange.
A shared virtual workspace can also strengthen a shared culture. When corporate cultures are fraying because of the pandemic, virtual spaces foster a sense of community, promote trust, and instill a sense of responsibility.
Experimentation shows you’re open to learning.
Companies are focusing more on employee experience, and people are demanding more flexibility in their work schedules and locations. Sharing a virtual workspace allows people to work together while also providing flexibility.
The first step is for companies to be willing to experiment over the next 12-18 months to figure out which hybrid design works for them. Work routines can be changed measurably by creating a virtual workspace. By using a virtual office, managers can show employees that they are adventurous and willing to try something different.
In 2020, while the pandemic prevented travel, Accenture began experimenting with virtual reality. Having virtual lounges for 150 managing directors in 25 countries made them feel more connected and enabled them to enjoy face-to-face time in the comfort of their offices. To create a shared employee experience, it developed the “Nth floor.” The company launched its mixed reality platform AltspaceVR in March.
The result is a level playing field.
No matter how much we promise a hybrid approach to work, it’s easy to revert to the old ways. People managers often have more opportunities to meet with employees face-to-face than those who work remotely. Creating an equal access space is one way to level the field.
Remote workers should be able to access the same benefits—like promotions and one-on-one with managers—as their in-person colleagues. To remain competitive, companies need technology that is available to employees across the board.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion objectives may also be strengthened by establishing a shared space. It is easier for parents (especially new mothers and fathers) to communicate with colleagues and managers via virtual spaces.
Virtualization has already transformed most companies.
Virtual work will continue to be more fulfilling and fascinating by advancing technology. Sometime soon, we’ll have a team meeting on Mars’ surface. We will be able to experience virtual reality as if we were sitting next to someone sitting thousands of miles away. So, we’re already there.
No matter how we label it, companies have already adopted it, whether we call it the metaverse or not. The question now is: Are fully virtual companies equipped to deliver that experience and interaction we know are essential to sustaining a high-performance culture?
The goal is that work is something you do, not somewhere you go. In essence, that’s how you can envision the future of work. Lastly, community is also a significant factor in why employees join and remain with a company. If virtual means never meeting any of your coworkers in person and just resigning with a button click, that convenience is not freedom. Therefore, we must create an environment where people enjoy working, whether virtual or not.
