Embrace the metaverse: it's closer than you think

Shane Deconinck

Shane Deconinck

Research Manager Security & Privacy Howest

03 July 2023

Ever thought about the benefits of immersing your brand in the Metaverse – but you’ve been put off by the apparent complexity and cost? Let's debunk those concerns. We'll explore how you can establish a strong presence in the Metaverse using the tools and resources you already have.

iStock-1471609215

Harness existing technologies: your passport to the metaverse

Entering the Metaverse doesn't have to break your budget. It's really about effectively using what's already available – a combination of AI, AR, VR, 3D modelling, the internet, and blockchain technologies.

Imagine your customers, as avatars, strolling through a virtual store in the Metaverse. This immersive experience – brought to life by augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) – allows them to interact with 3D models of your products. Their shopping journey is enhanced by AI-powered assistants that provide real-time guidance, personalised suggestions, and immediate answers to their questions.

With this dynamic, interactive setup, your customers are not just browsing, they're engaging – their attention is held much longer than traditional online shopping, and their connection to your brand deepens.

Now, consider the potential of blockchain. This technology allows you to offer unique digital assets or non-fungible tokens (NFTs), like special edition products or collectibles. Secured and owned by customers, these NFTs can be traded or showcased across different virtual worlds, creating an additional level of interaction and engagement with your brand.

Collaboration is key: assemble your metaverse dream team

Embarking on your brand's Metaverse journey doesn't necessarily require an army of experts at your disposal. The beauty of the Metaverse lies in its scalability – you can start small and grow your presence as you go. It's all about understanding your brand's needs and objectives and aligning your resources accordingly.

One of the best approaches is to have a Metaverse expert on board. This individual can act as a guide, helping your brand navigate the various aspects of the Metaverse. They contribute a broad understanding of the Metaverse's intricacies and know how to connect the dots between different domains, from virtual design and interactive storytelling, to AI and blockchain technologies.

Depending on your brand's scope and vision for the Metaverse, the level of involvement of other experts can vary. If you're envisioning a large-scale, highly interactive virtual space, you might benefit from a team of specialised architects, designers, and technology partners. On the other hand, if you're starting with a smaller-scale project, a Metaverse expert and a select few collaborators might well suffice.

The key here is to keep your brand's identity and objectives at the heart of your Metaverse journey. Ensuring alignment with your brand's values and goals is paramount – even while working with experts. You steer the ship, guiding your brand's direction and presence in the Metaverse.

Connecting the dots: blockchain in the metaverse

In the Metaverse, the power of blockchain technology emerges as a formidable ally. Blockchain introduces the essential layer of security, transparency, and interoperability that is crucial for transactions across various virtual platforms. This attribute enables your brand to maintain a consistent presence across diverse virtual environments, so that your brand experience is fluid and continuous, no matter where your customers are in the Metaverse.

Moreover, the interoperability brought by blockchain isn't just about secure transactions – it's a gateway to a more flexible, responsive brand presence. You're no longer confined to a single virtual world. Instead, you can swiftly move and adapt to where the action is. From a bustling virtual city to a tranquil digital retreat – your brand can be right there, seamlessly interacting with your audience.

Furthermore, blockchain introduces your brand to the fascinating world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Through NFTs, you can create and offer unique digital assets that provide an additional level of interaction and engagement for your customers. Exclusive digital merchandise, limited edition products, and virtual collectibles – these are just a few examples of how NFTs can add a distinct flavour to your brand's Metaverse presence, making it more appealing and immersive for your audience. The ability to create these unique, transferable assets not only enriches your brand image but also gives your customers something tangible to connect with, even in the virtual world.

Unleashing your brand in the metaverse

Entering the Metaverse isn't a privilege limited to tech giants with abundant resources. The Metaverse is a realm where any brand, regardless of its size, can carve out its unique space. By thoughtfully leveraging available technologies and resources, you can craft an immersive brand experience that not only catches your audience's attention but holds onto it.

With AI-driven virtual assistants, AR/VR integrations, engaging 3D environments, and unique digital assets powered by blockchain, you can build a brand presence that transcends traditional boundaries. The Metaverse provides a platform where your brand can forge deeper, more meaningful connections with your audience that foster a new level of brand loyalty and engagement.

Conclusion: shaping your metaverse strategy

Venturing into the Metaverse doesn't require a bottomless budget or building everything from scratch. Your brand's journey in the Metaverse will be just as unique as your brand itself. It's about navigating this new digital landscape strategically – understanding the breadth of tools and resources available to you and learning how to harness them creatively, leveraging the right technologies at the right time, and consistently staying true to your brand's values and vision – to craft a truly immersive and engaging customer experience.

Your Metaverse strategy should be a natural extension of your brand, a new frontier where your brand's personality shines and engages customers like never before. The Metaverse doesn't change what your brand stands for – instead, it provides a platform where your brand's identity can be experienced in new, immersive ways.

Ready to take the leap? Join our ‘Metaverse for Business’ programme today and arm yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively navigate and thrive in this transformative digital landscape. Step into the future of branding and customer engagement. Let's unlock the full potential of the Metaverse for your brand, together.

Get in touch!

Annelies Claeys

Annelies Claeys

Project Manager New Business