How Virtual Reality can transform your business

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the North-East can explore the potential of Virtual Reality for their businesses, at a special event, entitled Interactive VR Showcase. The free event will take place at the North East of England Business Innovation Centre, Enterprise Park East, Sunderland, on Wednesday 2 July and Thursday 3 July, from 10am-6pm.

The University of Teesside's Virtual Reality (VR) Centre will exhibit its diverse facilities during the two days, showing how VR technology can help transform a small business. The event is open to SMEs from Northumberland, the Tees Valley, Durham and Tyne and Wear (but not SMEs from the retail sector).

The University's VR Centre was one of the world's first centres when launched in 1997. Facilities include the creation of 3D models and 3D displays. Previous projects with businesses are:

* The Development of an interactive diving programme

* The Creation of a 'virtual swordsman' for the Leeds armouries museum

* The Creation of functional 3D models of industrial components

* The Development of VR simulations on PCs showing the impact of new buildings on environmental planning

Greg Stone, Funding & Business Development Manager from the VR Centre, said: "The Virtual Reality Centre of Excellence project is a very important opportunity for all North-East SMEs. Ten years ago, nobody in business had heard of the Internet and its huge benefits. Today, not many business people are aware of the advantages and benefits Virtual Reality can bring to competitiveness and marketing, but now is definitely the time to find out. Local firms have the chance to access internationally renowned expertise here on Teesside at affordable rates, thanks to financial support from the European Regional Development Fund."

Interested companies need to pre-book a place. For more details please contact Tracy Skinner on 01642 384328, fax 01642 384310, e-mail tracy.skinner@vr-centre.com

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