In this article, we will present the relationship between virtual reality and retail, showing how this novelty, which is already seen as atechnology trend, can be inserted into one of the fastest moving sectors of the economy. Read until the end to position yourself at the forefront of the market!
What is virtual reality?
Virtual reality (VR) is the interface technology that has the ability to deceive the user's senses, making him or her feel like they are in an environment different from their own. This is achieved through software that emulates environments and scenes, combined with gadgets, such as VR glasses, which guarantee immersion of the senses.
A few decades ago, virtual reality was a technology that australia whatsapp users only present in very specific contexts, such as highly technological rides in Disney parks and highly complex simulators. However, like all technology, it became popular and is now present in many homes, along with cell phones.
Most people now have a good understanding of what virtual reality is, but it is still common to confuse this technology with augmented reality (AR). Unlike VR, AR does not promote immersion. Instead, this technology aims to insert elements into reality through gadgets such as tablets and smartphones.
What is the relationship between virtual reality and retail?
Retail has been undergoing a series of changes in recent years, mainly caused by the new consumer profile. In a society in constant transformation, people have been placing greater value onshopping experiencethan the product itself, and this has a series of impacts on the way it is consumed.
But there are still many other changes on the way, and virtual reality will be the leader of many of them. Here are some situations in which VR can play a role in the retail segment.
Improve the shopping experience
In some sectors, customers may have difficulty seeing how products can be applied in their daily lives. Virtual reality can help with this.
Imagine, for example, a person who goes to a home décor store to choose new accessories for their home. How can they be sure that the items they choose match the pieces they already have before making the purchase? VR can provide a way to do this, simulating the consumer’s environment and ensuring that they are making a purchase that meets their needs.
Personalization
User-centricity is one of the fundamental principles of virtual reality. In retail, there are a number of possibilities for customizing the interface to perfectly serve the consumer.
A makeup brand, for example, developed VR software that can show the different stages of applying the products they are interested in on the customer's face.
Streamline product disposition planning
The positioning of products in a store is one of the main criteria that influences sales. Therefore, planning this arrangement must be done carefully and strategically.
However, even with all the planning, it turns out that there are still things that are not in the best place, and then it takes a lot of effort to move products around. VR can optimize this process. With software that simulates the store, it will be possible to see how the products are arranged in practice before you start opening the boxes.
Optimize training
Virtual reality is already being used in training in areas that involve high risks, such as aviation. More recently, Brazilian traffic laws included hours of training in simulators before prospective drivers hit the streets. Retail training can also benefit from this technology.
The programs can simulate everyday life in stores, present difficult situations for employees to find solutions to, put them through challenges such as serving a large group that enters the store at the same time, or properly cleaning the environment and equipment. All in a more fun way and using fewer resources.
Offer a wider range of products
Some stores have a small physical space and offer a much larger mix of products than are on display. This can hurt sales, considering that if the customer doesn't see the products, they won't buy them.
VR also solves this issue, as the display can be expanded with the use of technology. The store can, for example, display seasonal products, but make items from other collections available for the customer to view through the virtual reality interface.