Immersive insights: Enhancing collaboration with virtual reality (VR)

This is the second in our Immersive insights: virtual reality in action article series. 

The University's Immersive Lab aims to foster innovation and collaboration among staff, offering a versatile space that supports working together and team-building activities. The lab is already making an impact at Oxford with hands-on demonstrations and opportunities to experiment with immersive technology and virtual reality (VR) equipment.

Enhancing collaboration

We chatted with Sadiq Abbasi, whose Desktop Services team enjoyed a team-building afternoon in the lab. 

What made you decide to use the Immersive Lab for your team-building session?

We just felt it's something slightly different from a staged activity. As we are a technical team, we are aware of such devices and technologies being used in the Immersive Lab. So we thought, why not give it a try?

What activities did you end up doing in the session?

We’ve had a couple of sessions now and tried a few things. First and foremost, a small group tried the well-being activities. These involved some breathing techniques and as well as walks in different environments, which were good. The main team building session was mainly games based, but the whole idea was they were team games. I think they also tried paintballing, which is probably a bad move after having had a big lunch.

How did you feel the session went?

Overall, it was really well received, and the team really enjoyed it. It was just a shame that we didn't allow ourselves a bit more time. I think next time we’d like to try something slightly different, maybe not as active. All in all, it went down well. 

Do you see it having ongoing benefits for the team? 

Absolutely. I'm keen on team-building activities. It was good for us as the lab is on our doorstep, which is a massive advantage. The fact that we were able to use new technologies which are all accessible in-house, rather than having to bring in support is fantastic. You can have a bit of fun, team building, and well-being all in one environment. For us, this is ideal.

Would you use the Immersive Lab again?

We're using it tomorrow afternoon. I've spoken to the team about doing something more regularly, maybe once a month, to wind down but also learn and have fun. We'd like to continue if possible.

Would you recommend the lab to other teams?

I've already told other teams!