How to Maximize the Transformative Impact in the World of VR and AR Technologies – Ep 046

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VR and AR Technologies

In this episode, I talk with Mike Lawless, P.E., FPE, LEED AP, vice president of Innovation at IMEG, about the transformative impact of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, the groundbreaking IDEA Program, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) through MEG, an internal chatbot.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

VR and AR Technologies

VR and AR Technologies

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Mike:

  • Is the main goal of IMEGโ€™s innovation to achieve the specific improvements that IMEG aims for?
  • Can you tell us more about your internal AI chatbot and how it’s changing the way your team works?
  • Employees often find and use tools on their own, which can be hard to control, but with your AI strategy, are you setting boundaries while still providing necessary support?
  • Where do all these great ideas come from in IMEG’s idea program, and what impact has it had on the company?
  • How does sharing success stories compare to announcing new tools via email, considering the challenges of implementing innovation?
  • How have VR and AR technologies specifically changed client interaction with construction projects?
  • How has using virtual and augmented reality improved client satisfaction with your technology compared to traditional 2D prints?
  • Do you have any specific hardware recommendations or examples you’d suggest to show what’s available?
  • How does your team evaluate ideas from the idea program to ensure they align with the company’s vision and goals?
  • How does your structured approach ensure ideas align with your objectives throughout their development?
  • How has the use of 360-cameras benefited a product or client?
  • How do 360-cameras offer clients an immersive experience that balances efficiency, ease of use, and cost compared to drones?
  • What advice would you give engineers aiming to make a significant impact in the construction industry through innovation?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Maximize the Transformative Impact in the World of VR and AR Technologies:

  • Implementing ideas into action is essential for achieving real impact. Engaging and motivating team members throughout the organization is vital to ensuring that innovations are embraced and effectively utilized.
  • IMEG launched an AI chatbot named Meg to enhance internal information access. Meg promptly answers queries and assists engineers in accessing technical data in SharePoint, improving team efficiency and supporting ongoing learning initiatives.
  • IMEG provides employees with a curated AI tool named Meg for accessing reliable information within controlled boundaries. This strategy maintains data integrity while supporting staff inquiries, boosting operational efficiency and consistency.
  • The Idea Program at IMEG gathers innovative ideas from teams across the company, empowering members to develop and implement them into impactful projects. This initiative fosters a culture of innovation, enhancing collaboration and driving significant outcomes throughout the organization.
  • Sharing success stories through IMEG’s IDEA program is more effective than announcing new tools via email in addressing the challenges of implementing innovation. These stories inspire teams with practical examples, promoting a culture where innovation is embraced and effectively utilized across the organization.
  • VR and AR technologies have revolutionized client interaction with construction projects at IMEG. These technologies enable immersive visualizations and collaborative decision-making in virtual meetings, resulting in faster resolutions and enhanced project outcomes.
  • Virtual and augmented reality have greatly boosted client satisfaction compared to traditional 2D prints. Clients find these technologies provide clearer project understanding and better visualization, leading to higher satisfaction levels with enhanced interaction and immersive experiences.
  • For virtual reality, the Quest 3 headset is recommended due to its wireless capabilities and superior immersive experience compared to older VR technology, making it ideal for various projects.
  • IMEG evaluates ideas from its innovation program using a structured filter aligned with the company’s vision and goals. This ensures resources are directed to initiatives that effectively utilize technology across the project life cycle, enhancing overall project outcomes.
  • At IMEG, the structured approach ensures ideas align with the company’s goals by evaluating each initiative against specific criteria. This prioritizes projects that best support strategic objectives, optimizing resource use and fostering innovation in line with long-term goals.
  • The use of 360-cameras has benefited clients and projects by enabling real-time visual assessment and decision-making. Teams can collaborate effectively, enhancing efficiency and client satisfaction with timely, informed decisions based on current project conditions.
  • 360-cameras offer clients a cost-effective and user-friendly way to capture detailed visual data and conduct real-time inspections, surpassing drones in simplicity and affordability for immersive experiences.
  • Prioritize investing in your team’s skills and adoption of new technologies. While advancements continue to shape the construction industry, focusing on empowering and training your people ensures they can effectively leverage these innovations to make a meaningful impact.

More Details in This Episodeโ€ฆ

About the Guest: Mike Lawless, P.E., FPE, LEED AP

IMEGMike Lawless is the vice president of Innovation at IMEG Corp, where he plays a pivotal role in steering the company’s strategic vision and the development, implementation, and promotion of innovation initiatives within the construction industry. With a strong educational background from Bradley University, holding both a Master of Science (MS) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering, Michael’s expertise is instrumental in guiding IMEG Corp toward transformational changes.

At IMEG, Michael is dedicated to gathering and vetting innovative ideas both internally and externally, ensuring the firm invests its resources intelligently and remains proactive in response to the evolving needs and trends of the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry. His leadership ensures that IMEG is at the forefront of delivering innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations, thereby enhancing the outcomes for end users. Michael’s strategic approach and commitment to innovation make him a key player in driving IMEG Corp’s success in the construction sector.

About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.

structurecareNick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with six years of experience in the repair and restoration of existing structures, and host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH), where he brings valuable insights and expertise to listeners worldwide.

Nickโ€™s interests lie at the intersection between the built world and technology, and he can be found looking for the ever-changing answer to the question, โ€œHow can we do this better?โ€ Nick can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about the use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.

Sources/References:

IMEG Corp
IMEG Corp: Innovation โ€“ Design & Delivery
Meta Quest 3
Bushman Panoramic
Illumagear
Connect with Mike Lawless, P.E., FPE, LEED AP, on LinkedIn
Send Mike an Email

We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how you maximize the transformative impact in the world of VR and AR technologies.

Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.

To your success,

Nick Heim, P.E.
Host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast

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