Augmented Reality is on its way…but to you or to a competitor first?

This astonishing simulation of what it might be like to live in a world enhanced by Augmented Reality demonstrates a future that’s much, much nearer than many of us realize.  In a day when A/R apps are commonplace, where as Apple apps or as promotional interactions on cereal boxes, even B2B marketers should look at the possibilities, especially since so much of the software and hardware is economical and off-the-shelf. It’s better to get a leg up on implementation of breakthrough tools now, rather than play catch-up later, even if you’re simply exploring the option with your digital or design agency to see if it makes sense.

Execution in the real world of marketing and sales has to be affordable, sensible and not just glitz and boilerplate.  So any consideration of this kind of technology has to ask the question, does it give me a real competitive edge? Can I do it in a manner that’s not perceived as superficial, but provides concrete and rewarding interaction that’s meaningful to my category and my customers?

Imagine an A/R business card that’s not just entertaining, but unlocks high-value content for your prospects?  What about a sell sheet or brochure that activates a 3D product demo? When companies like Boeing (where the term orginated) and others are exploring integration of A/R and virtual reality into their production and maintenance procedures, it’s time to speculate about how this technology could help your business present a more dynamic face to the world across its advertising and marketing.