Superscape VR Plc, a Hook, UK-based firm virtual reality software provider, has developed technology that allows sales reps to create virtual retail stores and track rivals’ product placement, pricing and specifications. Optic, combining Microsoft’s Access database with Superscape’s Viscape virtual world simulation, was designed to let IBM Corp’s reps in the EMEA region monitor competitors’ offerings.
The Windows NT-based software enables reps to build virtual stores and walk through them, seeing where different products are placed and move them around, saving thousands of dollars on constructing physical models of shelving.
Superscape is also in talks with Oracle to use its technology for graphic representation of information stored in databases. Both the IBM and Oracle deals demonstrate the appeal of visualization technology in the internet retail market, but Michael Sachs, VP of Superscape’s Content Solutions Group, was unwilling to make any market estimates or forecasts.
Superscape will release more technology for the e-business arena before the end of the year which reduces download time for both single objects like products from a retail catalog, and environments, virtual worlds such as Optic’s virtual store. Dave Griffith, EMEA practice manager for Superscape’s Content Solutions Group, says that 3 Mb environments will be reduced to 400 Kb and 200Kb objects to 15Kb.
