‘Virtual’ meaning (Computing): ‘not physically existing as such but made by software to appear to do so’
‘Virtual’ meaning (Computing): ‘not physically existing as such but made by software to appear to do so’
We live in an age where VR (virtual reality) is common place & the term VR a natural part of modern dialogue. From the science fiction vision of Oliver Stone & ‘Wild Palms’ in the early 1990’s, to the gaming generation of the 2000’s; we have seen VR become an ever present part of our lives. However, most people who interact with VR, do so in a purely entertainment platform. The question is, how can this fully immersive format be transferred to commerce & marketing?
Virtually Smart Ltd by it’s very nature, is a VA (virtual assistant) service provider. Virtually Smart Ltd’s name draws consumers to the nature of the way in which the business is run; virtually. A high proportion of VA’s work solely in the virtual world & or rarely make verbal/physical contact with their clients. But how do other companies utilise VR as part of their marketing strategy & or within commerce?
Recent research suggests that there is an ever increasing demand for virtual experiences by consumers. Consumers can already have a VR rendering of a new kitchen, a bespoke house, a one of a kind car; the list is endless. So, how can this format help the marketers’ target an ever digital based market? & where does VR support this?
The gaming industry is estimated to be worth $108.4bn worldwide in 2017 & with consoles being linked to payment accounts, in game purchases are common place. It is within this format that brand related purchases could become a part of the immersive experience of VR.
“They (marketers) have the chance to create immersive brand experiences in a virtual capsule, unhindered by the constraints of the physical world. Whilst this may sound like a distant reality, marketers are already thinking about the potential of this technology for augmentative gaming experiences.” gdsgroup.com
We are all aware that to remain competitive in business, you need to remain on top of your game when it comes to analysing the competition. So how could utilising cutting edge technologies help to secure your place as a company to be reckoned with & to retain a loyal customer base? With a fully immersive customer interaction with your product or service, your customer base can experience first hand what it would feel like to be part of the brand they are considering investing in.
Considering the use of VR as part of your marketing strategy could make the difference between your business remaining current & becoming digitally outmoded & outdated. IKEA are one of the many companies resorting to a VR experience linked to an e-commerce capability:
‘IKEA has done an incredible job of being one of the first retail companies to launch a very well-executed VR site that actually incorporates e-commerce into the experience through its IKEA virtual reality store.’ forbes.com
Allowing the consumer the ability for full immersion in a product, to understand how it’s appearance, its contours, shapes & textures prior to purchase could change a consumers life & outlook; allows IKEA to create a greater conversion rate.
So, what does this mean for you & your business? Are you prepared to make the investment in VR & do your market projections warrant it as a viable option for your business sector? Considering the use of VR as part of a marketing strategy is a considerable investment, however, with research suggesting that the consumers needs are becoming ever more demanding prior to making a purchase, is VR something your business can pass by without taking a look into the possibilities?
