VR in the office? It could be a (virtual) reality

Speaking with BlueNotes on video, Cecil said ANZ was working on using VR for educational purposes for staff, including creating scenarios where they can virtually interact with customers or senior leaders.

" We’re looking at ways to take our teams… and give them an immersive experience while they’re learning."
Victoria Kanevsky, Contributing editor, BlueNotes

“We’re looking at ways to take our teams, who are spread across many locations, and give them an immersive experience while they’re learning,” he said.

“While it won’t replace traditional classroom learning, what it will do is enable them to visit environments and have experiences that are the best we could put together.”

ANZ is experimenting with a number of VR technologies, including Samsung Gear VR and similar headsets for training purposes, including Google Cardboard.  In the consumer digital space, developers at the bank are experimenting with both HTC Vive and Oculus Rift consumer headsets, with designs to also look into Google’s daydream platform when it is released later in 2016.

Cecil believes customer applications are a little further off but says global examples focussed on simplified transactions are an inspiration.

“Already companies like eBay are using virtual reality for purchasing on their site,” he said. “We’d like this technology adopted for some of the products we sell.”

“It may be that we’re able to link in with other providers… in the value chain.”

He also touched on how other sectors are using successful VR technology. Watch the video above to find out more.

Victoria Kanevsky is a contributing editor at BlueNotes.