Researching Technology: Balancing Innovation with Real Needs

Imagine rolling out a cutting-edge XR or AI solution, only to find that no one wants to use it. It’s not because the technology is flawed, it’s because it doesn’t fit the actual needs of the people who rely on it. Great technology isn’t just about performance, it’s about purpose.

When researching immersive technology, I go beyond the specs. I work closely with stakeholders and end-users, ensuring the solution is not only innovative but also practical and beneficial. From deep-diving into technical requirements to crafting training programs and managing expectations, my approach ensures new technology is seamlessly integrated and truly supports those who use it.

When researching immersive technology, it’s easy to focus on numbers, performance, cost, and adoption rates. But true success comes from ensuring the technology genuinely supports the people using it. Before diving into specifications, I start by engaging with key stakeholders and end-users.

I ask them questions, observe their workflows, and identify pain points. It’s not just about what they want but also what they need. At the same time, I help them understand what’s possible and what challenges might arise. This early communication builds realistic expectations and ensures the solution is useful, not just impressive on paper.

Once I understand the needs, I evaluate different technologies using a structured approach. I conduct a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) to compare options. I check whether the product:

• Requires extra hardware to function properly
• Needs custom content or integrations
• Aligns with the organisation’s existing infrastructure
• Has strong third-party support and future-proofing

This step prevents unexpected roadblocks later, ensuring a smoother implementation.

No one likes Christmas morning with their brand new toy, However can’t play with it because there are no batteries. A common mistake when adopting immersive technology is focusing only on the device itself. But technology isn’t just a one-time purchase. it’s an ongoing investment of technology, content and people. I always ask, “Does it have batteries?” In other words, does the solution come with everything needed to function long-term, or is it just a piece of the puzzle?

I assess whether the budget covers more than just hardware. Does it include:

• Ongoing content creation for XR experiences?
• Maintenance and updates to keep the system running smoothly?
• Training and support so users can fully utilise it?

Without these, even the best technology can become useless over time. By planning for the full lifecycle, not just the initial setup. I ensure the solution remains valuable, effective, and sustainable.

Choosing the right technology is only part of the process. Change management is crucial to ensure people actually adopt and benefit from it. Even with the best planning, things don’t always go as expected. Hidden barriers can slow or even stop adoption. Are people avoiding it because they don’t have time, or because they don’t see the value? Do they hate it, or are they just afraid of failing with something new?

This is why ongoing support is so important. I focus on:

• Creating training materials and step-by-step guides
• Running workshops to build confidence and skill
• Setting up continuous support so users aren’t left struggling
• Identifying and addressing unspoken fears or resistance

Adoption doesn’t happen overnight. Regular check-ins and feedback loops help me refine the approach, ensuring the technology is not just available but actually used in a way that benefits the people behind it.

The real measure of success isn’t just whether the technology works. it’s whether it makes life easier for the people using it. By focusing on usability, expectations, and support, immersive technology becomes more than just an exciting innovation. It becomes a practical tool that enhances experiences and drives real value.

Thank you for reading, and if you found a part of this useful. Share so it can help others.

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