If anything, the last two years have taught us to appreciate the value that online spaces like Zoom can offer us. While we were all locked down and social distancing, conferences, concerts, and other events were held in virtual spaces. These events are usually hosted in person with thousands in attendance. This allowed anybody to connect no matter where they were. For many people, this was their first experience with immersive technology. Eyes were opened. However, as we move towards a world of virtual and extended reality systems, how will this help our businesses? Furthermore, how will this help the world?
Who is Evenness?
Evenness, an Extended Reality (XR) solutions provider originally from the Netherlands, is a platform-agnostic agency. They work with various selected XR platforms to create ideal, inclusive, and accessible environments for individuals to interact. In addition, Evenness has brought social initiatives to life, such as the virtual Gallery “RESPECT”. This gallery features the accomplishments of people of color throughout history.
The gallery strives to educate users and provide them with a platform to learn about history. Specifically, about the achievements of inspiring Black innovators, scientists, politicians, poets, artists, civil activists, peace makers, sportsmen, journalists, and creatives.
Helping Businesses
“XR via a browser or a VR headset is the perfect solution to interact in a more personal way with people from all over the world. I had an amazing opportunity to attend Evenness’ programs, such as InnoHUB – a virtual program for professionals & entrepreneurs to network. They learn from the brightest minds in the domains of Open Innovation, AI & Data!” – Ivana von Proschwitz, International Startups Coordinator at AI Sweden.
Those of us who had the experience of working from home can probably relate to this. Being able to work in an environment that is entirely your own is excellent. You don’t have to worry about your snacks getting stolen from the fridge, and you’re no longer stuck in rush-hour traffic. But you’re still sitting at a computer, at your desk or table, typing away and answering phone calls for 8+ hours a day. Work doesn’t have to and shouldn’t be this tedious.
Conventions, trade shows, job fairs, virtual meetings, workshops, or trainings all deserve to have their very own 3D office space. This doesn’t require the investment in expensive, clunky VR headsets. In democratizing XR & the Metaverse, Evenness is creating awareness and sharing their knowledge. They are helping prepare organizations for the remote & immersive “Future of Work”. Virtual reality settings can break the monotonous workflow, whether you’re at home or back in the office.
Accessible & Inclusive by Design – Helping the World
The United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are initiatives recognizing that ending poverty and other deprivations complement one another. This is possible when paired with strategies that improve health, education, reduce inequality, and encourage economic growth. Evenness has adopted 10 goals to align with their values: Sustainable Innovation, Excellence of Experience, and Accessible & Inclusive by Design.
The technology being used is accessible and inclusive for all by design. With the ability to host immersive virtual experiences and events, barriers that might have once hindered someone from attending a conference are now lifted. For example, those with mobility challenges would no longer need to arrange transportation. Those with hearing impairments can now use the devices they’re already accustomed to at home. They no longer need to rely on the event to provide for them. Additionally, navigating parking lots and large auditoriums with limited seating is no longer a factor in determining a person’s ability to attend.
These factors also come together to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions expected to run these events. By hosting events virtually, we contribute to reducing emissions by reducing the need for people to travel to the site. People would no longer need to travel by car, plane, or train. What typically requires a logistics team to configure is no longer needed. This includes audio and visuals, chairs and tables, or food and beverages. Every bit counts when working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This can be achieved directly or through the work of organizations participating in virtual conferences and events, such as Revo Technologies in Murray, Utah.
Now and the Future
After almost three years of actively researching pandemic-induced behavior changes, Evenness is establishing its presence in the US. They also continue exploring how people learn best in remote environments. With a focus on building their own Metaverse platform, they plan to develop a virtual marketplace. Here, innovators can share knowledge and digital upskilling. The ultimate goal is to make the platform accessible to everyone interested in tech, regardless of their socioeconomic background or physical abilities.
