A HOST of different businesses from all of Cornwall’s sectors gathered recently in Bude for a free ‘Immersive Tech Introduction’, led by the director of Ocean 3D.

These forward-facing businesses have shown they are determined to capitalise on the plethora of opportunities provided by fast-moving immersive technology. The session showcased the potential of how 3D photography scanning can be applied to disability, business, education, hospitality and property needs.

The session was part of a series of innovative cost-free ‘Immersive Tech Introductions’ for Cornish businesses of all sizes, types and sectors. These opportunities have been opened up via the Coastal Communities funding gained by the new wAVE project, led by Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Cornwall Museums Partnership and Falmouth University.

Across the next 12 months, organisations across Cornwall can join their colleagues to gain access to new technological knowledge and skills that could significantly boost the awareness, efficiency and success of their businesses.  

The January session was led by Chris Wood, director of Ocean 3D, a leading 3D virtual reality photography scanning business. Ocean 3D was the first business in the world, without physical premises, to be awarded the ‘Autism Friendly’ award by the National Autistic Society and is currently working with a number of NHS trusts.

Ocean 3D apply a pro-health, pro-accessibility ethos to help businesses become more available to people with autism, anxiety, reduced mobility and accessibility issues.

Chris said: “It was great to see so many Cornish businesses in attendance at this session in beautiful Bude, and it’s great that they realise that the potential for 3D photography scanning stems way beyond being an immersive and captivating marketing tool. It is also an incredible way to increase the accessibility of your business and we’re looking forward to seeing a number of the keen attendees capitalising on the new skills and knowledge.”

Amy Shakespeare, wAVE community project manager at Cornwall Museums Partnership, said: “We’re proud to be leading the wAVE project alongside Falmouth University on behalf of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly LEP. Our first session at the Bedruthan Hotel focussed on screenless browsing and it was a tremendous success with a full house on the day and the second session here in Bude saw a wonderfully diverse set of organisations in attendance. 

“Businesses from wide and far went home with a substantial amount of knowledge on how 3D photography scanning can be used to benefit their business. Throughout 2020, we will be covering different areas of the emerging immersive tech industry, showing how they can benefit Cornish businesses of all shapes and sizes, all free of charge.”

The next free session will take place on February 24 at the Budock Vean Hotel in Mawnan Smith and will introduce businesses to immersive marketing and the potential of VR video. The session will include a free lunch and free tickets can be booked via Eventbrite.