When it comes to virtual reality (VR) videogames or experiences something often mentioned as a key factor that people should think about for success is storytelling, that it is the key to connecting with your audience. Although there is some debate about just how important that truly is in the great scheme of things.
Connecting, however, is one of the focal points of a new nationwide competition that has been announced by American companies Store No 8 and Thrive Global. The contest, entitled Innov8: V-Commerce, is being presented in collaboration with Accenture and is inviting companies and individuals to submit their ideas for developing “disruptive technologies and experiences that could help shape the future of commerce in virtual reality” and “with the mindset of creating a step-change in the consumer experience that makes shopping more mindful, more human, less stressful and more enjoyable.”
Submissions are open now and will be up until 4th August 2017, with selected ‘Innov8tors’ announced on 16th August 2017. with an invitation only gala event scheduled for some time in October Selected winners will be given development capital, mentorship and the chance to work with retail names such as Walmart.
“Virtual reality is rapidly transforming the way companies connect and engage with their customers and employees,” said Marc Carrel-Billiard, Senior Managing Director of Accenture Labs. “Accenture is committed to developing and investing in this powerful technology given the potential we believe it has to drive real business value. We’re excited to participate as a strategic innovation advisor to Innov8 and look forward to seeing the ideas that emerge.”
Katie Finnegan of Store No 8 explained her company’s involvement. “Virtual reality creates a presence, a mindfulness, that nothing else today can. We are looking to leverage virtual reality to drastically enhance the way people shop. Our first step is to identify the most innovative companies and minds in the space to help us on this mission. Innov8 will further define the future of commerce by inspiring and driving growth in the underlying ecosystem of technologies needed to bring shopping into the era of virtual experiences.”
“Right now, we’re in the middle of a cultural shift away from burnout and based on the connection between well-being and performance,” added Arianna Huffington, Founder and CEO of Thrive Global. “The companies that will win the hearts and minds of consumers are those that shape our daily lives by making everyday experiences, like shopping, easier and less stressful. Innov8 will focus the industry’s brightest minds and talent toward the development of virtual experiences that change the way we live for the better.”
More information can be found at the competition website at http://ift.tt/2vgdbRF, VRFocus will bring you more information on activities within the VR space as we get it.
via Mint VR