Many still associate the term “virtual reality” with science fiction, but this connection is rapidly becoming a thing of the past. Virtual reality (VR) cleaved from fantasy decades ago, and is becoming more prominent in the real world with every passing year. But this doesn’t mean we’re heading toward a dystopian nightmare in which we spend all of our time glued to VR headsets. VR is revolutionizing many industries and, ultimately, making the real world a little easier to live in.

Wait, back up. What is virtual reality, exactly?

VR is a technology that provides a three-dimensional, immersive, computer-generated environment that can be explored and interacted with. Users become part of a virtual world or are immersed within a virtual environment and can manipulate objects or perform a series of actions. VR technology generates realistic images, sounds, and other sensations that replicate a real environment in an imaginary setting and simulates a user’s physical presence in that environment. Virtual reality experiences replace the real world with a simulated one.

How is it different from augmented reality?

Augmented reality (AR) is the blending of virtual reality and real life. AR applications blend virtual reality with content within the real world. With AR, users interact with virtual contents while simultaneously being able to visually see the real world and can distinguish between the two. AR technology functions by enhancing one’s current perception of reality. It adds to the reality you would ordinary see rather than replacing it.

What business applications of VR/AR are you most excited about?

So glad you asked! Here’s a list:

• Architectural design, engineering and construction
• Entertainment & Gaming
• Aerospace
• Residential and commercial real estate
• Museums
• Training and Education
• Military simulations and training
• Virtual travel

How will virtual reality affect my life?

VR/AR allows for “experiences” to be presented virtually, before they exist. In the architecture, engineering, and construction industries, designs, features, and components can be experienced prior to the start of a project. This provides a capability to experience and explore an environment (e.g., an office building, condo, aircraft, or cruise ship) prior to starting construction. This results in improved design, fewer change orders, faster development time and time to market, reduced costs and increased competitiveness and sales. In simulation and training, VR/AR allows for skills to be learned in a convenient and safe environment with the ability to present an unlimited number of scenarios. AR/VR training simulations of, for example, an offshore oil platform fire, chemical plant crisis, or a military operation can be experienced safely and effectively.

How can I learn more?

On February 21st, a panel of experts will be discussing virtual reality and how it will affect our work, communication, and daily lives. Panelists include:

Boaz Ashkenazy, Co-founder of Studio 216

Marianna Budnikova, Software Engineer at HoloLens

Forest Gibson, Co-Founder of Pluto VR

Heather Raikes, Creative Director at 8ninths

The panel will be moderated by me, Mary Jesse. You can read my author bio below.

Register for the Tech in Focus: Virtual Reality by clicking the button below.