Imagination knows no bounds in the realm of Virtual Reality.
Ed or's Note
Victors Trailblazing AR & VR T he landscape of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is being shaped by influential leaders who are driving innovation, pushing boundaries, and shaping the future of these transformative technologies. These leaders come from diverse backgrounds, spanning tech giants, startups, research institutions, and academia. They are visionaries who understand the potential of AR and VR to revolutionize industries, enhance human experiences, and reshape the way we interact with the world. Their contributions extend beyond mere technological advancements; they are also champions of collaboration, driving partnerships, and ecosystem development to accelerate the adoption of AR and VR on a global scale. Through their leadership, they inspire creativity, foster talent, and cultivate a culture of innovation that fuels progress and propels the industry forward. From groundbreaking hardware advancements to pioneering software solutions, these leaders are at the forefront of development, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Their influence extends beyond their respective organizations, shaping industry trends, setting standards, and charting the course for the future of AR and VR. Through the latest edition of The 10 Influential Leaders Shaping AR/VR in 2024, we recognize the contributions of these influential leaders who continue to drive the industry forward, shaping a future where the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds blur, and immersive experiences become an integral part of our everyday lives.
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How Augmented and Virtual Reality are Shaping Remote Collabora on Articles Unlocking the Potential How Augmented Reality is Revolu onizing Industries The Future of Work 30 16 CXO The Digital Leader’s 20 Changing Skillset for All Industries Ibrahim Jilani A Tech Luminary Shaping Consumer Technology Pioneering Tampere’s Journey to the Ethically Safe Metaverse Profiles Ken Hubbell Redefining Educa on Through Technology-Driven Solu ons Teppo Rantanen 26 22
May, 2024 Pooja M Bansal CONTENT DESIGN SALES TECHNICAL FOLLOW US ON WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON CONTACT US ON Editor-in-Chief [email protected] SME-SMO
Company Name Brief Barry Prewitt Design Services Process Manager Barry is an experienced Project/Process Manager with a demonstrated history of managing software development projects. Anton Ebert Senior Key Expert XR technologies Anton has passion for digitalizing education, developing VR services, communicating to lots of interesting people and a "slight" adiction to technology. Siemens Healthineers www.siemens-healthineers.com Stryker www.stryker.com Alicja Jaworska Partner Executive Search & Interim Manage Executive Partner Chair & NED at Neumann Executive certificated in Coaching and Mentoring at Cambridge Management and Leadership School/ member of the Association for Coaching and Healthcare & Ethics Committee VRARA. Neumann Executive www.neumannexecutive.com Drew Holbrook Manager - Extended Realities (XR) Drew works for Gulfstream Aerospace in the Business Technology organization’s Extended Realities (XR) group. He has a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from N.C. State University and currently in 16th year with Gulfstream Aerospace. Gulfstream Aerospace www.gulfstream.com Erika Flowers Erika Flowers Erica is a strategist and design leader with a drive for creative productivity. 25 years experience in hands-on contribution, 10 years of strategic experience leadership in organizations across the entire innovation, product, and service capability maturity spectrum. NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration www.nasa.gov Featured Person Ken Hubbell Chief Executive Officer With over 20 years of experience in the EdTech industry, Ken is a pragmatic futurist who designs for tomorrow and builds for today. Ibrahim Jilani Global Director of Consumer technology Ibrahim is a Global team builder and business leader. He specializes in developing new services/products, opening new customer segments, increasing customer loyalty, growing top line revenue and profitability. UL Solutions www.ul.com/solutions Soffos Inc. www.soffos.ai Haydar Vural Chief Digital Officer (CDO) Haydar is CDO of Karsan Automotive, producing for the world's leading automotive companies, including its own brand, in its state-of-the-art facilities in the commercial vehicle segment. Karsan Automotive www.karsan.com Roman Axelrod Founder Roman is the founder of XPANCEO, a multidisciplinary team of almost 50 world - class scientists, engineers, and accomplished executive leaders ready to disrupt the conventional reign of silicon era technologies and propel humanity towards the next generation of computing. XPANCEO www.xpanceo.com Teppo Rantanen Executive Director Teppo, from TMT focused partner specializing in Digitilization and Internet of Things, especially from the point of view of Value Creation and New Ecosystems into public sector implementing Smart cities and digitilization activities. Tampereen kaupunki - City of Tampere www.tampere.fi
Ibrahim Jilani A Tech Luminary Shaping Consumer Technology With a rich history spanning 130 years, UL Solu ons has developed a robust process for risk management, priori zing employee safety and the development of innova ve services.” Cover Story “
eet the esteemed Global Director of MConsumer Technology at UL Solutions, Ibrahim Jilani. He has an impressive career spanning over 18 years with the company. As the industry leader for Consumer Technology, Ibrahim leads UL Solutions endeavors in pioneering new technology and innovation across a diverse spectrum of manufacturers. Ibrahim's expertise includes a wide range of sectors, including AR/VR/MR equipment, Audio/Video, Batteries, Consumer Electronics, Robotics, Data Centers, and more. Ibrahim's leadership extends beyond mere management; he plays a pivotal role in shaping UL Solutions mission to address global industry challenges through product evaluation, testing, and certification. Ibrahim is a recognized leader in his field. He represents UL Solutions in various industry trade groups and serves as a key liaison for manufacturers, regulators, and retailers worldwide. His dedication to excellence has earned him the prestigious Mark of Excellence—a UL Solutions program that recognizes employees who exceed expectations—award on five occasions, a testament to his unwavering commitment to driving positive change and mitigating risks in product safety and regulatory compliance. With a master's degree in computer engineering from the University of Illinois and certification as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Ibrahim brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role at UL Solutions. His contributions have not only elevated the company's standing in the industry but have also made a lasting impact on global safety standards and technological innovation. Early Exposure to Engineering Engineering has been a significant part of Ibrahim's life since childhood, influenced by his mechanical engineer father, who holds several patents in various products, including home lighting. Ibrahim was actively involved in learning about his father's innovations, participating in construction reviews and testing of designs. This early exposure fueled his desire to study computer engineering and be part of consumer technology advancements.
Ibrahim believes that innova on is the catalyst for significant transforma on, as it meets and redefines consumer needs, crea ng opportuni es for mass adop on. Upon joining UL Solutions in 2005 as a project engineer in appliances, Ibrahim embarked on a career journey that led him to support the latest innovations in industrial, commercial, and consumer electronics. His role has involved ensuring that these innovations reach the market in safe and reliable ways, mirroring his childhood experiences aiding his father with product launches. Addressing Industry Needs Post-Service Delivery Ibrahim underlines the importance of customer satisfaction, ease of doing business, and loyalty at UL Solutions. The company is dedicated to providing an exceptional customer experience by treating both new and existing customers with respect, ensuring expeditious service delivery, and maintaining timely and relevant communication. Post-service delivery, UL Solutions remains available to address industry needs, fostering ongoing growth and advancement in consumer and commercial technology markets. Key performance indicators, including customer surveys, delivery times, and effective communication, are closely monitored to gauge customer satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. UL Solutions continuously enhances its software and websites to facilitate easier customer engagement, and engineers and technicians undergo training to become proficient in customer service. By prioritizing initiatives aimed at increasing customer loyalty and enhancing the overall consumer experience, UL Solutions remains committed to meeting and exceeding customer expectations. Commitment to Safety, Security, and Sustainability As a third-party entity, UL Solutions supports integrity and impartiality in assisting manufacturers worldwide as they introduce their latest innovative products to market. Ibrahim emphasizes the company's commitment to ensuring safety, security, and sustainability in consumer technology by collaborating with manufacturers before product launches. UL Solutions, alongside its parent standard development company, UL Standards & Engagement, evaluates the need for new standards and certification programs to safeguard public safety. One significant example of this proactive approach is in the field of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) equipment, collectively known as XR Equipment. Market research data and customer requests indicated a shift towards mainstream commercial and enterprise use of XR equipment in recent years. This raised concerns about potential health and safety effects on users and the safety of various components and system design of XR equipment. Recognizing the need for safety standards, UL Standards & Engagement and UL Solutions announced plans to develop a safety standard at the end of 2019. Stakeholders, including manufacturers, research firms, and hospitals, were invited to contribute to the development process. A technical committee comprising over 30 organizations worked on the safety standard from 2020 onwards. In April 2023, the first edition of UL 8400, the world's first accredited consensus Standard for AR, VR, and MR Equipment, was published. A significant milestone occurred in January 2024 when the United States Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) added UL 8400 to the workplace safety standards list. This underscores the “
team members whose primary language is not English, ensuring comprehension and buy-in. Ibrahim highlights the significance of being mindful of cultural differences regarding holidays, workplace norms, and the time of year. Understanding these factors contributes to more effective communication and fosters a harmonious work environment across regions and cultures. Emphasis on Continuous Improvement As one of UL Solutions' first certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belts since 2010, Ibrahim spearheaded companywide initiatives from 2008 to 2011, focusing on improving response times to customers through effective project management. This involved consistently tracking key deliverables, communications, and promoting best practices across the global engineering workforce. Continuous improvement was emphasized to ensure optimal project delivery efficiency and customer satisfaction. Transitioning to business leadership roles from 2012 onwards, Ibrahim concentrated on enhancing processes and measuring results within innovation initiatives. Acknowledging the importance of allowing innovation to develop, he emphasized monitoring market research data, aligning it with technology trends, and utilizing available data to anticipate future safety, security, and sustainability risks proactively. These efforts were aimed at maintaining UL Solutions' commitment to excellence and staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of consumer technology. Listening to Customers for Product Roadmaps As a tech leader, Ibrahim shares the importance of continuous learning and staying informed about emerging trends and technologies at UL Solutions. This involves a multifaceted approach, including: Ÿ Listening to customers: Gathering insights from customers about their product roadmaps and future technology launches. Ÿ Attending trade events and industry symposiums: Participating in events to stay updated on industry developments and network with professionals. Ÿ Involvement in standards and industry groups: Participating in working groups for various standards and industry publications to stay informed about regulatory requirements and importance for CIOs and IT executives to ensure XR equipment provided to employees is certified to UL 8400 to meet OSHA requirements, that can help to mitigate workplace risks and protect employees, UL Solutions is the first OSHA-approved National Recognized Testing Laboratory for UL 8400 Safety Certification and can assist manufacturers in achieving this certification. Welcoming Feedback and Diverse Ideas When building and leading global teams to ensure cohesion, collaboration, and effective communication across different regions and cultures, Ibrahim emphasizes several key strategies. At UL Solutions, where the work has a global impact, collaboration with professionals worldwide is essential. To facilitate this effectively, Ibrahim underscores the importance of respecting all cultures, welcoming feedback, and being open to diverse ideas. Clear articulation and reiteration of messages are crucial, especially when working with
industry trends. Ÿ Engagement in trade associations: Involvement in manufacturing, retail, safety, and technologyrelated trade associations to stay connected with industry peers and gather insights. Ÿ Reading market research reports: Absorbing information from numerous market research reports and studies to understand market trends and industry preferences. This comprehensive approach ensures that UL Solutions remains abreast of the latest developments in consumer technology. In cases where emerging technologies present new challenges, such as artificial intelligence, UL Solutions engages with industry stakeholders to formulate hypotheses about safety requirements and validate these hypotheses through feedback and collaboration. This information informs strategic planning and decision-making processes, enabling UL Solutions to offer services that address market needs effectively and competitively. Ultimately, the goal is to provide safety, security, and sustainability services that align with market demands and contribute to the advancement of consumer technology. The Crucial Role of Third-Party Evaluation and Certification Ibrahim believes that innovation is the catalyst for significant transformation, as it meets and redefines consumer needs, creating opportunities for mass adoption. As a third-party entity, UL Solutions aligns its innovation with market and regulatory demands. When new technologies require trust or face safety concerns, the role of third-party evaluation, testing, and certification becomes crucial. Ibrahim underscores that innovation should never compromise safety, security, or sustainability. UL Solutions prioritizes transparency, demonstrating that customer innovations are safe, secure, and sustainable. To foster innovation, UL Solutions cultivates a culture of growth among its teams, seeking individuals who are naturally curious, creative, and continuous learners. This environment encourages exploration and discovery of new technologies, with the aim of enhancing transparency and trust in products, software, and systems. Ultimately, this approach allows UL Solutions to support innovation while ensuring consumer safety and confidence. A Legacy of Safety With a rich history spanning 130 years, UL Solutions has developed a robust process for risk management, prioritizing employee safety and the development of innovative services. As a third-party entity, UL Solutions plays a crucial role in reducing the risk associated with its customers' products, thereby facilitating the launch of safe new products into the market. As an example, in the case of XR equipment, UL Solutions aims to minimize the risk associated with prolonged use. By leveraging accredited safety standards like UL 8400 and collaborating with CIOs and technology executives who prioritize safety certification, UL Solutions helps ensure that innovative products enter the market safely and at scale. This approach aligns with the company's commitment to promoting safety and mitigating risks associated with emerging technologies. Ensuring Effective Execution Ibrahim mentions the importance of regular communication and check-ins with various leaders and internal stakeholders to align on long-range planning at UL Solutions. The company employs rigorous and robust ongoing To facilitate this effec vely, Ibrahim underscores the importance of respec ng all cultures, welcoming feedback, and being open to diverse ideas. “
and annual review processes to stay on task, pursue long-term strategic goals, and deliver on yearly budgets effectively. Regular presentations, to educate the market, endusers and staff, internally and externally, are conducted by Ibrahim to share his vision for the future of consumer technology. Feedback from both the organization and external partners is actively sought to ensure that UL Solutions remains on the right track. This collaborative approach helps in maintaining alignment and guiding the company in the direction that best serves its goals and objectives. Guidance from an Expert In offering advice to aspiring leaders, Ibrahim says it is important to maintain mental agility and continuous learning. He encourages aspiring leaders to actively engage in executing projects and commitments while consistently expanding their knowledge base. Ibrahim suggests focusing on technical subjects and becoming an expert in one or two areas, alongside developing public speaking skills and overcoming personal doubts. Ibrahim suggests aspiring leaders to find their voice and contribute to addressing industry challenges by leveraging their expertise. Ibrahim emphasizes the need to balance technical leadership with business acumen, ensuring alignment with company and industry needs. By serving as a bridge builder between technological innovation and market demands, aspiring leaders can contribute to the advancement and safety, security, and sustainability of the world's products, software, and systems. At UL Solu ons, where the work has a global impact, we strive to reduce risk that could cause loss of life, injury, or property damage. “
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Unlocking the Potential n the not-so-distant past, the concept of interacting I with virtual objects superimposed onto our real-world environment seemed like something out of a science fiction novel. However, with the advent of augmented reality (AR), this futuristic vision has become a tangible reality, poised to revolutionize various industries in profound ways. From enhancing customer experiences to streamlining complex industrial processes, AR is unlocking a world of potential across multiple sectors. Augmented Reality Defined Before delving into its revolutionary impact, let's first understand what augmented reality entails. Unlike virtual reality (VR), which immerses users in a completely digital environment, AR overlays digital content onto the real world, enhancing our perception of reality. This augmentation is typically experienced through devices such as smartphones, tablets, or specialized AR glasses, which blend virtual elements seamlessly with the user's physical surroundings. Transforming Retail and E-Commerce One of the most noticeable areas where AR is making waves is in retail and e-commerce. Traditionally, consumers relied on static images or descriptions when making purchasing decisions online. However, AR is changing the game by allowing shoppers to visualize products in their own space before buying. From trying on virtual clothes to previewing furniture placements in their homes, AR is enhancing the online shopping experience, reducing returns, and increasing customer satisfaction. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 16 How Augmented Reality Industries isRevolutionizing
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Revolutionizing Education and Training In the realm of education and training, AR is revolutionizing the way we learn and acquire new skills. By overlaying educational content onto real-world objects or environments, AR brings learning to life in a highly engaging manner. Students can dissect virtual anatomy models, explore historical sites from their classrooms, or conduct virtual science experiments—all within the comfort of their learning environment. Similarly, in fields such as healthcare and aviation, AR is facilitating hands-on training simulations, allowing professionals to hone their skills in a safe and controlled setting. Enhancing Field Service and Maintenance For industries reliant on field service and maintenance, AR is proving to be a game-changer. By providing technicians with AR-enabled smart glasses or mobile devices, companies can deliver real-time assistance and guidance, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency. Technicians can access relevant information, such as schematics or repair instructions, overlaid onto their field of view, enabling them to perform tasks with greater accuracy and speed. This not only saves time and resources but also minimizes the risk of errors, ultimately leading to higher customer satisfaction. Optimizing Manufacturing and Design In the realm of manufacturing and design, AR is streamlining processes and driving innovation. Designers and engineers can use AR to visualize prototypes and make real-time adjustments, speeding up the product development cycle. By overlaying digital models onto physical objects, manufacturers can assess design feasibility, detect potential flaws, and optimize production workflows. Furthermore, AR-powered assembly instructions assist workers in complex manufacturing tasks, reducing errors and ensuring consistency across production lines. Reviving the Entertainment Industry Entertainment is another sector witnessing a renaissance thanks to AR technology. From immersive AR gaming experiences to interactive museum exhibits, AR is breathing new life into traditional forms of entertainment. Theme parks are incorporating ARenhanced attractions, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. Moreover, live events and concerts are leveraging AR to deliver captivating visual spectacles, creating unforgettable experiences for attendees. Fostering Remote Collaboration In an increasingly interconnected world, AR is fostering remote collaboration like never before. Whether it's virtual meetings or collaborative design sessions, AR platforms enable geographically dispersed teams to work together seamlessly. By sharing a common augmented environment, team members can visualize concepts, annotate objects, and brainstorm ideas in real-time, regardless of their physical location. This not only enhances productivity but also promotes inclusivity and diversity within teams. Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead While the potential of AR is vast, it's not without its challenges. Technical limitations, privacy concerns, and adoption barriers pose significant hurdles that need to be addressed. However, as technology continues to evolve and become more accessible, the benefits of AR will likely outweigh these challenges. Looking ahead, the future of augmented reality appears promising. As advancements in hardware, software, and connectivity continue to accelerate, AR will become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, reshaping the way we work, learn, and interact with the world around us. By unlocking its full potential, augmented reality is poised to revolutionize industries across the globe, ushering in a new era of innovation and possibilities. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 18
"Virtual reality is the rst step in a grand adventure into the landscape of the imagination." - Frank Biocca
The Digital Leader’s Changing Skillset for All Industries We are now in an era of end-to-end digitalization globally in all industries. Whenever we deep-dive into an industry to find new ways to gain competitive advantage, digital leaders and their contributions become vital for success. So, this era has set a new role for digital leaders, which is pioneering technology for corporations in all aspects. Finding the right technology solution and adding it to your technology stack is no longer sufficient. It is not easy to fulfil this role unless you focus on your skillset and add some new ones. If a brief list of new skills is prepared, one on the list would be the negotiation with the ecosystem. If the definition of the digital ecosystem was asked by professionals 30 years ago, the most common answers would be technology providers, system integrators, universities, and research centers. These answers are still essential, but new ones, like start-ups and talented individuals, emerged quickly. The new entrants have different rules of games and establishing a mutual benefit with them needs understanding their rules. The previous list strongly understands the corporate world and its expectations. The new ones do not want to be bound by the tight rules of the corporate business environment. Freedom and self-decision-making are at the top of their priority list. This is different from the wellorganized previous cooperation, and it is open to varying discussions. Digital leaders must learn how to negotiate with start-ups and talented individuals in the corporate world. This is like balancing a scale. Providing freedom to the ecosystem must be balanced with corporate risk mitigation and innovation. This is not so easy if big companies are still seen as more powerful in this game. Innovation coming from a startup or individual may generate unprecedented revenues in a short while, and start-ups and individuals are aware of this power. The scale, history, and reputation of any party in the ecosystem must be discarded, and negotiation must be done based on potential outcomes. If we continue the list of ecosystem-related skills, being a brand ambassador is another one. Finding the right talent is extremely competitive, and hiring a few recruiter companies will not guarantee that. Whenever a talent is contacted for cooperation, most of the time, the key question is with whom they would be working. Digital leaders must invest in advance to be well-known in the ecosystem and visible to prospective employees. Their understanding of the technology and vision for the future are some key facts to impress the candidates. The universities, student clubs and academies need more care, and the digital leaders must spend time to have connections with them. Offering the highest salary or being the biggest in your industry will not provide the same level of brand awareness when it is compared with pre-established word of mouth based on communication. The lifetime learner is a common subject when the profiles of most executives are read. To fulfill it, too much time and energy is needed, and it is a must for a new leadership style. The rapid change of technologies and emerging new ones made the digital world too complicated. Just to give an example, generative AI was not on most of our agenda three years ago. Now, there are companies which totally implement their core strategies or business operations with the support of generative AI. A leader without the knowledge of underlying technology will avoid from its full benefit to companies. The overrated technologies sometimes lead decisionmakers to invest massive amounts, and technology teams are the only ones that may prevent it. Technology is not easy to follow for non-technical decision-makers, and the illusion coming from the buzzwords may make them confused easily. The right mix of technology and investment cannot be achieved unless a digital leader comprehensively understands the technology, explains www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 20
About the Author Haydar Vural is the Chief Digital Officer of Karsan Automo ve. He has built digital strategy and implemented technology in different industries for over 20 years. He observed how successful digital strategy shaped corporate with business outcomes and believes that this is the key to sustainable profitability. it to business stakeholders, and even drops some from the business agenda, Lifetime learning also puts another burden on digital leader’s shoulders, teaching it to the rest. The efficiency and profit coming from digital technologies force companies to learn new ones quickly and adopt them before their competitors. The individuals are very willing to learn and try them by themselves. Letting employees understand and implement them unharmonized and unaligned with a corporate strategy may not be a helpful solution. Consider this with an orchestra playing a classical music piece. Each instrument is like a technology and when they are played at the right time and with the right skill, the perfect music piece may be performed. It takes years to master an instrument, but people have a few years or sometimes months to use technology in the digital world. Choosing them, building the strategy and implementing the technical skill development processes are key items in digital leader agendas. Finally, the last item on our list will be the AI-master digital leader. AI is the top answer to questions when it is asked in different industries about what will change the industry in the upcoming years. The options available in the market are enormous, and the right mix CXO of solutions, partners, training, and investments gives you the maximum benefit. Just to give an example, if the number of data and data transformation tools available in the market are compared with ten years ago, the current list contains 3-4 times more options. If the AI solution providers list is compared in the same way, it is 20-30 times. The digital leaders must build the mechanisms to listen to them, understand their differences than competitors, be able to initiate investment to start-up and develop sector specific products together. If digital leaders do not spend time on learning AI fundamentals and applications, they will lose their competitive advantage. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 21
If you want to make an impact in the EdTech space, take time to understand K-12 and adult learning principles. Ken Hubbell CEO Soffos Inc. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 22
Redefining Education Through Technology-Driven Solutions he Educational Technology (EdTech) domain Tthrives on innovation. This constant push for advancements leads to the development of transformative tools that reshape learning experiences. Personalized learning platforms cater to individual needs while interactive simulations and digital resources make complex concepts more engaging. EdTech pioneers use technology to empower students, fostering collaboration and equipping them with the skills needed to succeed at the same pace as the world around them. Ken Hubbell is a visionary leader with over two decades of experience at the forefront of EdTech innovation. With a keen eye for the future and a pragmatic approach to design, Ken is a quintessential futurist who navigates the complexities of tomorrow while building solutions for today. As the CEO of Soffos Inc.—a pioneering generative AI/ML company, Ken spearheads the development of low-code solutions that revolutionize knowledge management, learning, assessment, course content creation, and performance support systems. Ken's passion lies in crafting engaging and innovative products that harness the power of cutting-edge technologies like AR/VR/XR, AI, prompt engineering, and serious games and simulations. His track record speaks volumes, having collaborated with global giants such as Tom Clancy, Michael Crichton, the United Nations, NASA, and the FAA, to deliver award-winning projects that redefine learning, performance, and impact. Outside his role as a CEO, Ken is a mentor, coach, writer, and international speaker, dedicated to sharing his knowledge and giving back to the eLearning community. His journey exemplifies leadership in EdTech and a commitment to driving meaningful change and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in education. Join in on a narrative of revolutionizing the future of education with cutting-edge EdTech innovations! What initially sparked your interest in the field of EdTech, and how did you first become involved in the industry? With a background in industrial design from NC State University, I quickly found my niche in EdTech, moving from animation and production design to creating engaging explainer videos for EPA site cleanups. My journey took me from visualizing textile mechanical processes and building interactive training programs to developing cutting-edge 3D web tools with Virtus Corporation, partnering with giants like Intel and Adobe. I've built simulators for Caterpillar and the FAA, collaborated with NASA, and presently lead a team leveraging Generative AI to revolutionize EdTech, enhancing educator efficiency and program effectiveness. As the CEO, what excites you most about leading a company at the forefront of generative AI and machine learning? As the CEO of Soffos Inc., I work with some of the brightest and most innovative product designers, business developers, and programmers on the planet. We are taking revolutionary technology and applying it in a way that will transform the lives of teachers, students, instructional designers, employees, and organizations in ways that are just now starting to come to life. I have been speaking on talent disruption and the new workforce for over a decade. Last year I released my book, ‘There is AI in Team: The Future of Human, Augmented Human, and Non-human Collaboration’ on Amazon. Now I get to see this all emerge, and my team is making it possible. How do you define success in the context of developing advanced tools and applications for knowledge management and learning? My definition of success for EdTech is when it becomes invisible to the user. It will be so integrated into the workflow and educational process that the employee or www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 23
student doesn’t see it as a separate piece, but rather a smooth transition from one type of learning to another. I also measure the success of these tools and applications by their ease of use, reduction of time to create new content and minimization of cost to ensure access for all. Ultimately, it comes down to how effective is the solution. Ÿ Did it reduce the time to competency? Ÿ Did it improve the capability of the employee or team? Ÿ Did it increase the confidence of the individual? Ÿ And did all this result in better employee and customer experiences, and improve the financial position of the organization? These are the goals we have for our platform. What are some of the key challenges you've faced in integrating cutting-edge technologies like AR/VR/XR and AI into educational solutions, and how have you addressed them? Over the years, I have faced my share of challenges in EdTech: Ÿ While developing a customer empathy virtual reality training program for Wells Fargo, the world experienced the COVID-19 epidemic. The training was well-received by the employees. However, HR forced us to halt deployment due to the sanitary restrictions on the headset devices. Ÿ Changing well-entrenched educational and training industry techniques forced us to discover we needed to talk less about technology and more about its impact. In the case of Soffos, our platform is a force multiplier for teachers, administrators, and EdTech developers. Based on benchmarking research we conducted with one of our partners this year, the study showed a 40% reduction in time and cost to develop new courses. We let the data tell the story of how instructional designers can meet the demand for new courses with the time and budget provided by their organizations. Ÿ The biggest and most invigorating challenge for the Soffos team has been the relentless drive to keep up with and exceed the pace of the AI technology itself. We have been fortunate to lead in several areas including retrieval augmented generation (RAG), document chunking, and long-term session memory, but with the scale of OpenAI, Meta, Google, and What motivates you to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in EdTech, even after two decades in the industry? After over two decades in the field of learning and development, and more specifically EdTech, many have asked me what drives me to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation. My answer is simple, we have others, staying at the forefront is definitely a race. Fortunately, our focus is on creating a maintainable and useful platform for EdTech and, in this regard, we are well positioned. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 24
now reached many of the goals I set years ago. We have achieved automated content production. We are in the Metaverse. Augmented reality is a cost-effective training solution. And, access to learning is almost universal, at least in regards to technology. My ultimate dream is to have an AI-enhanced system of continuous feedback and seamless performance support, and on the job training continuously augmenting my capabilities and enabling me to be the best I can be and helping others reach their full potential. How do you approach mentorship and coaching within your organization and the wider eLearning community? At Soffos Inc. my team is always learning—it’s a part of being in a leading-edge company. More than that though, we are a small company and wear many hats. As a leader, it is my job to ensure every one of my employees has the tools and training to perform at their best. This often means just listening to what is happening in their lives, understanding when we are stretching our boundaries (technically as well as physically; sometimes I must coach them to sleep), and supplying the tools they need to be successful. I also ask, ‘What do you want to be?’ Most importantly, I have a virtual open-door policy for them to provide me with feedback so I can be a better leader for the company. In your opinion, what are the most crucial qualities for a leader in the field of EdTech to possess? The field of EdTech is constantly changing, sometimes for the good and sometimes not so good. As a leader in this field, it is easy to fall prey to ‘shiny object syndrome’ as relates to other people’s technologies as well as your own. The key is to recognize when you have the syndrome. In most cases, this comes from lots of trial and error, heavy emphasis on the error. Another vital quality is having a mind open to possibilities. The possibility there may be a better way. The possibility it may not be a training issue (it might be a process). The possibility EdTech is not the answer (a 2-page job aid might do the trick). An EdTech leader must learn how to communicate with non-EdTech leaders and employees. In many cases, they just want to understand how you can improve their situation, not how you are going to create the solution. The most important quality is cultivating an environment where your team knows what they can expect from you and what you expect of them. And you ensure everyone is respected for the qualities they bring to the team. How do you prioritize staying abreast of emerging trends and developments in technology and education? With so many emerging technologies and trends in EdTech, it is easy to become overwhelmed. I manage my load in two ways. First, I use aggregators like Gartner and Edutopia along with LinkedIn to pull research and data from a broad spectrum of sources. Second, I use the Soffos platform to summarize larger articles and research papers into a manageable pile. I also apply content filters to focus and sort these piles and then capture smaller pieces into One Note for future reference. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in the EdTech space? My philosophy is to design for tomorrow and build for today. If you want to make an impact in the EdTech space, take time to understand K-12 and adult learning principles. Experiment and determine what truly affects behavioral change and builds skills. Find an area of technology you have a passion for - software development, hardware design, or content creation - and immerse yourself in it. Discover how it can improve the learning experience for students/employees and course developers including teachers and instructional designers. Finally, dream big and act on your dreams. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 25
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Teppo Rantanen Pioneering Tampere’s Journey to the Ethically Safe Metaverse mart cities are reimagining urban life by Sintegrating technology for efficiency, sustainability and citizen well-being. Digital transformation fuels this growth, with data analytics, connected infrastructure and innovative solutions. Here, the expertise of a seasoned professional is invaluable. Leaders in this space champion a clear vision, fostering collaboration between tech experts, urban planners and citizens to navigate the complexities of smart city development and digital transformation. Teppo Rantanen is one such professional who brings a wealth of experience and a visionary outlook to the table. With a robust background spanning over three decades in consulting, Teppo honed his expertise, notably during his tenure at Deloitte, where he served as both the CEO of Finland and a pivotal member of the global Telecom Media Technology unit’s international leadership team. His journey in consulting, particularly in the realms of Digitization and the Internet of Things (IoT), instilled in him a deep understanding of value creation and the emergence of new ecosystems. Teppo’s proficiency in navigating the intricacies of the TMT sector positioned him as a strategic partner for corporations seeking to embrace the digital age. However, it was his innate curiosity about smart city themes that prompted Teppo to embark on a disruptive journey back to his roots in Tampere, his hometown. In his current role as Executive Director at Tampereen kaupunki - City of Tampere, Teppo leverages his extensive experience to spearhead initiatives aimed at implementing smart city solutions and driving digitalization activities within the public sector. Teppo now stands at the nexus of innovation, bridging the gap between the private and public sectors to shape the future of urban living. His collaborative approach has garnered attention on a global scale, as he works closely with major cities and corporations worldwide to co-create and develop the blueprint for future cities. Driving Urban Innovation As Executive Director, Teppo heads pivotal responsibilities centered around shaping strategic economic policy. His role extends to overseeing comprehensive city-wide development programs, with a particular focus on initiatives like the Data-Driven City for Citizens. Furthermore, Teppo’s purview encompasses international operations, event management and advocacy efforts, all aimed at advancing the city’s interests on a global scale. Vision for Future Cities Teppo’s journey as a consultant was marked by a dedicated focus on commercializing cutting-edge technologies including the Internet of Things (IoT), with cities being a key target demographic. This early involvement with the smart city theme laid a solid foundation for his current endeavors. Throughout his consulting career, international engagement was a facet but it turned into the cornerstone of his work soon. Fast forward to his role in city operations, Teppo’s team has recognized the indispensable role of international collaboration in smart city development. They actively foster partnerships with cities, research institutions and companies worldwide recognizing the value of shared expertise and mutual learning. Indeed, internationality emerges as a central tenet in their approach, reflecting its significance for the future evolution of cities. Metaverse Manifest Since 2016, Teppo has been at the forefront of pioneering initiatives such as the Smart Tampere www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 27
program, followed by the Data-Driven City for Citizens development program. Teppo shares, “Recent developments in this field have led us toward the concept of a metaverse city.” Under his leadership, these programs have catalyzed a multitude of projects exemplified by the extensive scope of Smart Tampere. These encompassed an impressive array of 150 distinct initiatives. Presently, the Data-Driven City for Citizens program is structured around five flagship initiatives, each meticulously designed to embody the essence of a forward-thinking and human-centric smart city: Ÿ A City of Business Growth Ÿ An International and Inclusive City Ÿ A City of Growth and Learning Ÿ Safe Pedestrian City Ÿ Sustainable City Within each flagship initiative lie multiple projects, collectively propelling the agenda of smart city development and digitalization forward with a profound focus on the well-being and needs of the citizens. The Data Economy Under Teppo’s stewardship, the Smart Tampere program undertook a groundbreaking turn towards fostering a robust ecosystem-based approach. This ambitious endeavor saw the active involvement of a diverse array of stakeholders including over 400 companies, universities, research institutions, government units, and non-governmental organizations. Central to this initiative was the meticulous crafting of value propositions tailored to meet the distinct needs of various ecosystem participants. This concerted effort facilitated collaboration and laid the groundwork for mutually beneficial partnerships. Currently, the focus has shifted towards grappling with data economy issues with a keen emphasis on exploring avenues for value creation through data both for the city and its businesses. As they focus on this domain, Teppo and his team are poised to reveal new frontiers in smart city development driven by data-driven insights and innovative solutions. International Engagement International collaboration lies at the core of their strategic approach. Tampere’s engagement on the global stage is a deliberate and integral aspect of their endeavors. One noteworthy example of this commitment is the establishment of the Nordic Smart City network in 2017—a collaborative effort involving Tampere and 10 other Nordic cities. Furthermore, their footprint extends across Europe, with deep-seated partnerships forged with cities like Rotterdam and Barcelona alongside fruitful collaborations with counterparts in the United States. Tampere boasts affiliations with industry giants such as Microsoft, Nokia and Cisco reflecting their prowess in cultivating strategic partnerships with global players. A crowning achievement in their international engagement was Tampere’s recognition at the Barcelona Smart City World Expo Congress where they clinched the enabling technologies category award. This accolade celebrated Tampere’s innovative utilization of IoT platforms, setting a benchmark for cities worldwide. The ripple effect of this triumph has been palpable, sparking heightened collaboration and fostering dialogue with municipalities and enterprises alike. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 28
However, this triumph recognizes Tampere’s enduring commitment to long-term cooperation and its extensive global networks, which continue to drive innovation and excellence on the international stage under Teppo’s leadership. Imagining the Future Teppo holds a forward-looking perspective on the transformative potential of extended reality (XR) technologies within the context of the metaverse city. Embracing the broader term ‘XR,’ Teppo highlights its pivotal role in shaping the future urban landscape, particularly in driving the experience economy forward. In line with this vision, Teppo champions XR development particularly focusing on its applications in enhancing the city-dwelling experience. From immersive XR experiences enriching cultural offerings like museum exhibitions to the practical utility of XR applications in city modeling through digital twins, the potential for XR to revolutionize everyday urban life is immense. Anticipating future trends, Teppo foresees a pronounced emphasis on experiential elements, mirroring the growing trend evident in sectors such as museum and exhibition activities. Moreover, he predicts significant strides in healthcare through technological advancements facilitated by XR, alongside the added value it brings to urban development and urban planning initiatives. To delve deeper into these themes and explore the burgeoning possibilities of the metaverse, Teppo announces the ‘ ’ event scheduled Imagine the Metaverse th to take place in Tampere next summer, on June 11 and th 12 . This gathering will serve as a nexus for inquisitive minds hailing from diverse sectors, including industry, experience economy, smart city development, and the business sphere. At this event, the future trajectories and emerging trends within the XR field will undoubtedly take center stage, paving the way for a bold new era of urban innovation. Innovating Urban Futures The metaverse city and how smart technologies will increasingly enable seamlessness between the physical and virtual worlds, adding value to citizens’ everyday lives, are undoubtedly among the opportunities. Teppo acknowledges that despite the impressive array of technologies currently available, a significant hurdle lies in the absence of tailor-made solutions for the metaverse world. Specifically, the dearth of affordable and user-friendly technology remains a notable challenge. He envisions a future where VR/XR glasses seamlessly integrate into daily life, offering intuitive usability coupled with robust connectivity, ideally facilitated by advancements like 6G. Addressing these technological barriers holds the key to unlocking a myriad of new use cases with profound implications for urban environments. Here, innovative solutions related to transportation and mobility could revolutionize urban mobility systems while efficient data utilization powered by these advanced technologies ensures safety and security in data handling. By surmounting these challenges and harnessing the potential of cutting-edge technology, Teppo anticipates a paradigm shift in urban development, characterized by a wealth of new possibilities and transformative applications that enhance the quality of life for city residents. Towards a Seamless Integration In the future, the metaverse will emerge. The goal of all this is to guide the city toward a metaverse world where digital twins, XR, AI (especially Gen AI) and connectivity intersect in a way that allows us to create a genuine connection between the real world and the virtual world. At the center of it all remains the human being—the ethically safe metaverse city aims to help citizens find practical ways to operate using new technology. Teppo states, “We have developed a 2040 vision of the metaverse for the city of Tampere in collaboration with the London-based Metaverse Institute. We continue to refine this vision into specific areas, seeking a path toward realizing the vision and creating a future human-centric city.” www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 29
The Future of Work How Augmented and are Shaping Remote Virtual Reality Collaboration n the wake of the digital age, the landscape of I work is undergoing a profound transformation. The rise of remote work, accelerated by global events and advancements in technology, has revolutionized how teams collaborate and communicate. Among the myriad tools reshaping this landscape, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) stand out as transformative forces, offering immersive solutions to bridge the gap between physical distance and virtual connectivity. As organizations navigate the complexities of remote collaboration, AR and VR technologies are emerging as indispensable tools, heralding a new era of work defined by enhanced engagement, productivity, and connectivity. The Evolution of Remote Collaboration Remote collaboration is not a new concept, but its widespread adoption has surged in recent years, driven by factors such as technological advancements, changing work cultures, and the need for flexibility. Traditional communication tools like email, video conferencing, and project management platforms laid the foundation for remote work, enabling teams to connect across geographical boundaries. However, these tools often fall short of replicating the immersive, interactive experience of face-to-face interactions. Enter Augmented and Virtual Reality Augmented and virtual reality technologies offer a compelling solution to the limitations of conventional remote collaboration tools. AR overlays digital content onto the real world, enriching our physical environment with virtual elements, while VR immerses users in entirely virtual environments, www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 30
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creating a sense of presence and immersion. By leveraging these technologies, remote teams can transcend the constraints of distance and collaborate in ways that were previously unimaginable. Enhancing Engagement and Interaction One of the key advantages of AR and VR in remote collaboration is their ability to enhance engagement and interaction. Traditional video conferencing platforms provide a visual and auditory connection, but they often lack the immersive experience of face-toface meetings. AR and VR, on the other hand, enable participants to interact with virtual objects and environments in real time, fostering a sense of presence and engagement that transcends physical distance. Facilitating Spatial Collaboration Spatial collaboration, the ability to interact with digital content in a shared virtual space, lies at the heart of AR and VR-based remote collaboration. In a virtual meeting room or workspace, team members can manipulate virtual objects, annotate documents, and brainstorm ideas collaboratively, regardless of their physical location. This spatial awareness fosters creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, leading to more innovative outcomes and solutions. Breaking Down Communication Barriers Effective communication is essential for successful collaboration, especially in remote work environments where non-verbal cues can be easily overlooked. AR and VR technologies address this challenge by providing more immersive communication channels. In VR environments, for example, participants can use gestures, body language, and spatial audio to convey information and emotions, fostering more natural and intuitive interactions. Transforming Training and Onboarding Remote collaboration extends beyond meetings and project management—it also encompasses training, onboarding, and skill development. AR and VR offer immersive training simulations that replicate realworld scenarios, allowing employees to learn new skills and procedures in a safe and controlled environment. Whether it's virtual team-building exercises, interactive onboarding sessions, or hands-on technical training, AR and VR technologies are revolutionizing the way organizations educate and empower their workforce. Challenges and Opportunities While the potential of AR and VR in remote collaboration is undeniable, challenges remain. Technical limitations, accessibility issues, and concerns about privacy and security are among the hurdles that organizations must address. Moreover, the upfront costs of implementing AR and VR solutions can be prohibitive for some businesses. However, as technology continues to evolve and become more affordable, the barriers to adoption are expected to diminish, unlocking new opportunities for remote collaboration. The Future of Work As we look ahead, the future of work is increasingly defined by remote collaboration augmented and enabled by AR and VR technologies. From virtual team meetings and collaborative design sessions to immersive training experiences and remote customer support, the possibilities are limitless. As organizations embrace these technologies and integrate them into their workflows, they will not only enhance productivity and efficiency but also foster a more connected, inclusive, and innovative work culture. In conclusion, augmented and virtual reality are reshaping the landscape of remote collaboration, ushering in a new era of work defined by immersive experiences, enhanced engagement, and limitless possibilities. As organizations navigate the challenges and opportunities of this digital transformation, the true potential of AR and VR in remote collaboration is yet to be fully realized, but the journey promises to be nothing short of transformative. www.ciolook.com | May 2024 | 32
"AR and VR are just the beginning of a new era of digital transformation."