The Metaverse is presenting us with an opportunity of a lifetime
Over the past two years , the pace of innovation and change has happened faster than what we ’ ve seen in human history . Now , businesses are racing toward a future very different from the one they were designed to operate in , as technologies are reshaping human experiences .
We ’ ve already seen firsthand the positive implications of technologies like augmented reality / virtual reality ( AR / VR ) on businesses and the human experience . For example , we developed a virtual reality training tool for highway patrol to give cadets an opportunity to digitally experience what it would be like before they were deployed on the streets . Through a video game-style format , cadets can experience real-life scenarios of traffic stops on the highway , the dangers they may encounter and be more prepared for their first day on the job . In addition to being prepared for the job , cadets can also feel more confident in their skills and capabilities .
Looking ahead , we can expect that the lines between physical and digital will continue to blur . New research from Accenture ’ s Technology Vision 2022 found that by 2030 , the lives of human beings will stretch across several worlds , known as the metaverse . We will exist not just in the reality we all know , but also across numerous digital , virtual , and “ virt-real ” — worlds that are a combination of physical and digital worlds . Think about a team that is geographically distributed , looking to solve a problem for a client . Team members can work in smaller groups with colleagues in a physical office space , and then come together to collaborate , share ideas and collectively find a solution as a global team in a virtual setting .
Accenture currently operates its own metaverse , the Nth floor , where the company ’ s people participate in new-hire orientation and immersive learning or meet and socialize as teams . Through this experience , even before many new hires have had a chance to connect in person , they ’ ve been able to build relationships through this curated digital experience . We expect by August 2022 , 150,000 or more new hires at Accenture will work in the metaverse on their first day .
Similarly , business leaders who are shaping the workforce for the future are starting to see the possibilities as we explore new ways to interact , engage and co-create using these existing platforms . It provides us with an opportunity to shape culture , deepen connections within the workforce and give more access to leadership . While we ’ re still in the early stages of fully understanding the implications that the metaverse can have on a business , many efforts are already underway to reimagine the future of technology , as the metaverse applies across all segments and aspects of business . headquarters , arenas where visitors can play games and a digital showroom where they can outfit avatars with Nike products . The full experience crosses into the physical world too : By using the accelerometers on their phones , visitors can translate activity in the physical world into longer jumps or faster running speeds in NIKELAND games . Through this unique experience , Nike is redefining how consumers are engaging with its brand and transforming the way its loyal consumers shop for products .
As we move into this new multidimensional reality , we also need to ensure we are innovating with equity and inclusivity in mind . From these new experiences , we should seek out new opportunities to make a positive impact in our communities , and help those individuals who are underserved and underrepresented . Think about the impact we can make if a local community organization can source volunteers to lead a career workshop session in a digital space , tapping into people from across the country to help train and prep individuals for real-life interviews . At the same time , the organization can also activate local volunteers for an in-person drive to collect clothes and other items they may need for an interview . It ’ s a win-win .
In another scenario , organizations can take advantage of the metaverse to create more equal opportunities in the workplace . A team member with a physical disability may not have been able to join in-person meetings due to limited accessibility in the physical spaces . Now , these meetings can take place digitally , where all team members can participate and join together from the comfort of their own homes .
The possibilities are limitless . These are just a few examples of how we can explore the metaverse to empower our people , grow the capabilities within our organizations and make an impact in our communities in new , innovative ways . As leaders , we also need to think about how it impacts the way we operate our business differently , ensuring that the workforce is ready to embrace change and adopt a futureforward mindset . And while we have to move fast , it ’ s imperative that we do it in a manner that is authentic and with purpose .
Mark Noriega is Accenture ’ s Sacramento Office Managing Director and leads the Public Service practice , working with the State of California . In this bi-monthly content for Comstock ’ s , he shares insights on the latest workforce themes , trends and issues impacting California ’ s Capital Region .
We ’ re seeing a lot of adoption in the consumer space , with global brands like Nike leading the way . Nike recently announced its NIKELAND on Roblox showroom . NIKELAND has buildings and fields inspired by the company ’ s real-world
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