The technological developments that have occurred in the last few decades, particularly, have transformed the methods of marketing that were used earlier by B2B marketing. Augmented reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) have radically altered the traditional ways of marketing. AR and VR technologies using various tools such as apps or VR glasses respectively have reshaped the B2B marketing landscape.
What is AR?
Augmented reality is the technology that adds digital layers such as sounds, images, and graphics to the real world. It does not create an artificial environment rather by adding various features it transforms the perception of the existing environment. However, this diffusion of the real world and digital features is apparent and does not completely blur the boundary between the two. AR is experienced through applications. Most common examples of this include ‘Pokémon Go’ and ‘Pair’; the app that allows you to see how the new furniture will look like in your house without having to buy it.
What is VR?
Unlike AR, virtual reality gives you an illusion of being in a whole new computerized world. The three-dimensional allows the user to experience the virtual world where they can interact with people and perform different actions which give them the perception of the real world. It can allow you to fly an aircraft or land on mars by merely sitting in your room. It gives you an escape from reality and helps you live in a utopia that you have always wanted to live in and helps you experience the risky tasks that are difficult to be experienced in the real-world. This technology is widely used in the field of medicine, arts, architecture, sports, etc. Virtual reality is experienced through various tools such as virtual headsets.
What is the Big Shift?
The inception of AR and VR technologies in the marketing world has allowed companies to put themselves out in the market in an enhanced manner. The AR/VR technology provides a personalized experience to the customers. They can see the product in its entirety and can make sure if it tailored as per their needs. The live demos facilitated with AR/VR technology are more intriguing as compared to the presentations which in turn attract more customers. For example, an architect can present his construction model through VR and the contractors can experience seeing the building or walking in it which will allow them to analyze it more thoroughly. Being multisensory in nature, it is more appealing to the customer’s emotions. This experience facilitates fastening the decision-making process and as a result of which the sales cycle is shortened. In addition to that meetings can be held, and products can be tested in a digital environment.
The inception of VR and AR has catered to the needs of our digital needs of the current technological era. It allows companies to organize digital training sessions. Other than selling your products you can help them learn. For example, students pursuing medical can exercise complicated procedures before doing the actual surgery.
Various emerging technological trends or profound assistance from an expert social media agency helps the businesses to flourish. Similarly, AR/VR helps in building virtual stores. Online shopping has always been undermined as the buyers prefer to first see the product in real. However, these technologies allow you to build a virtual store that eliminates traditional reservations regarding online shopping. Moreover, it gives the buyer a feeling of shopping in real. Likewise, incorporating technologies like these differentiate your products and your brand from your competitors. The experience gained through AR/VR cannot be replicated through another medium. Hence, this experience will engage the buyers on a deeper and personal level that will help you built a powerful connection with your customers.
If you are selling your products in a trade show or an event where multiple companies are present to compete with yours, AR/VR is the best way to win the crowd. Offering a near-to-reality experience of viewing your products can help you outshine the rivalries. Other than being a marketing tactic, it is a fun-filled experience that cannot be overlooked.
Incorporating AR And VR In B2B Marketing is likely to embrace the future of digital marketing. These technologies help you present your products, solutions, and services in an innovative and amazingly engaging way. This break from traditional methods of marketing has provided the business world with new dimensions that facilitate the sales cycle and blurs the regional differences that have hurdled the expansion of business around the globe.
