XR Development for the Energy Sector: Takeaways from Industry Experts
/XR in the energy industry is offering new avenues for training and simulation in high-risk environments. With safety, cost efficiency, and authenticity at the forefront, XR enables organizations to prepare employees without the traditional risks and expenses associated with hands-on training.
From Vive business
The Best Practices for Building XR Solutions in the Energy Sector ebook by HTC VIVE compiles valuable insights from industry professionals who have been leading XR projects, including the VRARA Energy Committee. Their experience reveals best practices in creating effective, sustainable, and impactful XR solutions. Here’s a look at some of the main areas highlighted.
1. Focus on Enterprise Needs
Before diving into XR development, it’s crucial to understand what specific problems XR will address. Training is a primary focus in the energy sector due to the cost and risk associated with real-life training environments. For instance, XR can simulate scenarios in nuclear plants without requiring trainees to be physically present, saving time and reducing risk. The ebook contributors recommend ensuring that a solution aligns with existing IT infrastructure and data security standards—and that it has a specific purview to accomplish.
2. Build for the End User
Involving stakeholders from the beginning ensures that an XR product is intuitive and user-friendly. This includes IT personnel, training teams, and even the trainees themselves, who can provide feedback on the interface and usability. Consistency in interactions—like keeping the same button for similar actions across simulations—creates a seamless experience for users of varying digital literacy levels.
To ensure accessibility, the guide also recommends designing alternative XR-compatible options, such as tablet or desktop-based versions. This inclusivity not only broadens the potential user base but can encourage even the hesitant participants to engage with XR.
3. Strive for Authenticity
For XR training to be effective, it must mimic real-world tools and processes as closely as possible. Subject matter experts play a crucial role in advising on the specifics of equipment and scenarios, making it possible for trainees to encounter realistic simulations. Todd Daniel from Shiny Box Interactive emphasizes that realistic virtual environments can give trainees more confidence as they transition their skills to the field.
Allowing trainees to experience failure in a controlled virtual environment further enhances learning. They can see the consequences of mistakes without actual risk, which prepares them to handle situations confidently and correctly on the job.
4. Test, Analyze, and Follow Up
XR solutions benefit greatly from an iterative development process. Agile testing, regular feedback from end users, and pilot programs provide insights that shape the final product. According to Duke Energy's Jenny Taylor, the feedback from pilot programs has led to optimized training modules that reduced a two-hour in-person training session down to an 11-minute virtual experience, with significant cost savings.
Deploying XR solutions through phased rollouts allows companies to refine the product progressively and handle issues before a full-scale launch. Data tracking and performance metrics like KPI monitoring are also crucial for ongoing improvement.
Conclusion
As XR technology reshapes the energy sector, applying these best practices can help developers deliver solutions that are safe, efficient, and user-friendly. By focusing on enterprise needs, building intuitive and realistic products, and committing to a rigorous testing process, energy companies can leverage XR to meet the unique demands of their industry.
Whether you’re new to XR or looking to refine your approach, these guidelines from HTC VIVE’s ebook offer a blueprint for creating impactful solutions that elevate training and operational efficiency in the energy sector.
👂 Want even more real-world XR training use cases and 📋 best practices in energy projects? Make sure you grab your seat 🎫 to attend the Industrial XR Forum at Industrial IMMERSIVE 2025 next March 3-4!
