If you think back over the span of your life, how much has technology changed? The answer is a lot.
But the changes to the internet and technology over the years go beyond function and fun like Zoom and TikTok. Some innovations could change what our world looks like and how you interact with people.
Case in point: the metaverse.
If you’ve only heard of the metaverse in relation to Facebook’s recent name change to Meta, that’s okay. It’s still an abstract, future concept.
But it is becoming a reality nonetheless.
Elements of the metaverse are starting to impact workplaces, and there’s a lot of buzz about it in the media. Businesses should think about how they may adapt to working in the metaverse. Further, how will it impact the meaningful, core human elements of business and work?
What is the Metaverse?
A singular, united metaverse is not a real thing—at least not yet. It’s a concept, and it’s actually not that new. The term “metaverse” was coined by author Neal Stephensen in his 1992 science fiction book “Snow Crash.”
The metaverse is the conceptualization of the next wave of the internet, marked by a virtual, 3D environment in which digital avatars interact in real-time.
Here are a few examples of technology that are part of the metaverse:
- VR or AR Goggles: VR refers to a 100% virtual world; AR is more subtle. With AR glasses, you might be able to look at the menu in a restaurant and see images or videos of the items.
- Virtual spaces: Digital avatars can live, work, socialize, and buy things all in a virtual 3D world. Think of it like playing The Sims, but integrated with real-life tasks and events.
- Cryptocurrency: Since the metaverse is virtual, crypto will be the main currency.
Think of the metaverse like a video game: the player (a real person) has an avatar (a digital person) who can interact in a virtual, 3D environment to play games, complete tasks, buy things, or interact with others.
Working in the Metaverse
There are many applications of the metaverse. If youre curious what a typical day in the metaverse might look like, here’s an idea:
- Attend a mixed reality work meeting through a VR headset.
- Relax with a blockchain-based game.
- Manage your cryptocurrency financial portfolio.
Working in the metaverse will likely be the biggest change. Mark Zuckerburg laid out Facebook’s vision for virtual workplaces, appealing to many people who now work from home due to the pandemic.
Here’s how the metaverse may impact workplaces:
- Virtual workplaces: Digital avatars can interact with each other to mimic real-life workplace interactions.
- 3D spaces: Professionals such as engineers or designers can create digital 3D models—no need for tangible prototypes.
- Mixed reality (MX) client meetings. For example, a client is able to use VR Goggles to test out a new product while speaking on the phone to the sales agent.
How Businesses Should Respond to the Metaverse
WFH during the pandemic has paved the way for new technology to replace traditional offices. It’s likely that more and more businesses will integrate virtual spaces for employees to work in the metaverse.
But technology can’t replace the human element.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, people are looking for connection. People are eager to socialize and find their community after so much time apart.
At Launch Workplaces, we’re obviously big advocates for working together in a community because we believe that coworking spaces can help build knowledge and networks, which are essential for professionals in any field.
The desire for connection and community is one reason people are seeking out coworking spaces, even when given the chance to work from home. We previously wrote about how the human element is your true competitive advantage, and how it’s the most important thing to prioritize.
That said, technology can help with connection and community. It just depends on how it’s used.
So, as people start working in the metaverse, businesses will need to stay focused on that human connection—it’s the core of any successful business or organization.
If you’re looking for an innovative workspace where you and your team can get great work done, book a tour of your local Launch Workplace today.
