By now, most of us have heard of the Metaverse–the next evolution of the Internet with its immersive and persistent convergence of the physical and virtual world. Consumer-focused companies like Nike and Procter and Gamble have already launched their own metaverse. So, as we at Unvired Inc. focus on mobile Enterprise Asset Management, our immediate thoughts were about the creation of a metaverse for Asset Management.

The building blocks are already there. Augmented Reality (AR) apps for repairing equipment are already there from our partner, SAP. In fact, Unvired itself has an app built for smart glasses for Warehouse Management. Digital twins, IoT, and Virtual Reality are already being leveraged for Asset Inspections and Repair. Blockchain and crypto are here.

So, we now need to have a bold vision and create the Asset Management Metaverse. There shall likely be multiple metaverses, created by leading Equipment vendors and software companies. Maybe, there may even be an industrial flavor. The following Use Cases may seed these metaverse(s):

• Repair/Assembly: The use of enhanced AR/VR, digital twins, and digital avatars of Subject Matter Experts could impart an almost in-person experience.
• Spare Parts Commerce: Various equipment vendors could buy virtual real estate and sell physical parts. In fact, they could even sell virtual parts, just like Nike is selling virtual sneakers. Blockchain-based transactions and cryptocurrency could enable commerce.
• Training/Simulation: The technicians can be truly immersed in an environment that is very similar to the real world which could make training, upskilling that much more effective.

In summary, we do not know the exact trajectory of the metaverse as yet. But, it is coming with all the investments being made. We are waiting with bated breath about the metaverse (s) for Enterprise Asset Management. Mobile and AR/VR apps are fun, but the metaverse shall be super fun.

Pl. write to me at sales@unvired.com or contact me if you would like to share your thoughts or discuss this topic