Virtual reality has often been thought of as a concept only present in science fiction. While there have been attempts at VR in the past, it’s never really taken off. That, however, has changed dramatically as today we now have fully interactive software and hardware that emulates the idea of virtual reality. From the Oculus Rift to the Vive, there are many headsets to choose from along with equally interesting programs to explore.

Mostly, VR is centered around entertainment and the gaming industry, but this is only the beginning. In fact, businesses will likely find a future in virtual reality; if not selling the actual hardware, utilizing it as part of their company goals.

There are various ways to look at virtual reality and its potential integration with sales and business. An organization can develop hardware related to it (such as headsets), or virtual programs to showcase software. Not all businesses go down this route though, so how else can VR work with organizations?

For one, virtual reality can completely change how products are sold or pitched. Imagine you’re trying to sell an idea to investors. You could, in theory, use VR to demonstrate how this idea works, how a person interacts with it, how it’s used, etc. Versus a verbal play by play, virtual reality lets those investors get a far better in-depth look at the product’s intention. Say your product is a lawnmower. With VR, you could use digital representations of its hardware, its effectiveness, how it’s built, and many other things, all which help sell this concept to others.

The same goes for consumers too. VR allows customers examine products before purchase in a brand new way. Imagine selling kitchen appliances in a fully digitized kitchen, where a customer could walk around, see the stock, interact with the products, and see what they do before buying. Not only is it inventive and unique, it increases the odds for sale since the consumer knows exactly what they’re getting.

Companies could even use virtual reality as an entirely new training method. Depending on what the organization does, new employees could learn complex tasks within the safety of a virtual area. An employee could get a hands-on approach towards things like mechanical repair without concern for error. In the medical field, doctors could practice multiple procedures on digital patients. The options are limitless, generating an experienced workforce with better training, all thanks to virtual reality.

VR and its respective hardware still has a ways to go before we see its integration into everyday life. However, there’s no doubt it’s no longer a “far future” idea. It’s clear VR can play a larger role than just a new way to game. Only time will tell how companies truly utilize virtual reality, but that day is coming and it’s closer than we think.