At an Innovate Carolina Signature Series event at the Innovate Carolina Junction, industry leaders and UNC faculty explored how augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) technologies are transforming the way organizations operate, train employees and engage customers. Once viewed as niche tools, these technologies are now gaining traction across industries including health care, finance, retail and education.
Presenters included experts from Fidelity Investments, the Hussman School of Journalism and Media, Kenan-Flagler Business School, and UNC School of Nursing. Panelists highlighted a wide range of practical applications, from immersive data visualization and employee training simulations to virtual collaboration spaces and customer engagement experiences. XR technologies—an umbrella term encompassing AR, VR and mixed reality—are enabling organizations to interact with data in new dimensions, simulate real-world scenarios and create shared digital environments that enhance teamwork and connection.
The discussion also emphasized the advantages of immersive learning, including improved engagement, reduced distractions and the ability to safely practice complex skills. In particular, AR/VR tools are proving highly effective for teaching interpersonal and communication skills by placing learners in realistic, emotionally engaging scenarios.
While organizations can choose between off-the-shelf tools and custom-built experiences, experts encouraged leaders to evaluate their goals, budget and technical capabilities when adopting these technologies.