Dave Gray
Building Virtual Renovations, Part 2 of 2
Renovation Contractor“In the written word, the reader interprets the words, the characters, and places, which creates a scene in their mind. In a movie, that same ‘story’ is replaced by created scenes and actors,”
By Chantale Pitts, Cadsoft Corporation, and Gary Sharp, CHBA
Better Communication
The VR experience of interacting with the space builds the foundation for better communication. Using apps like HomeView VR, found in the Google Play store and the App Store for Apple, allows you to send immersive scenes to a client’s phone so they can view it on their own time. It’s not as immersive as a full VR experience, but it is a simple take away so homeowners can get excited about what you are offering.
One American renovator, Jack Zimmer, sees a true benefit for communicating using VR for his clients. “In the written word, the reader interprets the words, the characters, and places, which creates a scene in their mind. In a movie, that same ‘story’ is replaced by created scenes and actors,” Zimmer explains. “If you look at architecture, you may consider architectural plans as being similar to the written word. The person looks at ‘sheets’ and must interpret a floor plan/elevations/section and recreate the space in their mind. Renderings and animation are similar to the movie presentation. Less is demanded in terms of imagination, but the presentation is still on a ‘flat screen.’ With VR, the customer is actually inside the model. When walking or looking around everything is suddenly to human scale. There is depth, shadows, colors and a new form of realism that has not been available any other time.”
Canadian Technology Adoption
Canadians builders and renovators create the best cold-climate housing in the world. We pioneer new technologies in Canada, so why are we lagging behind our American colleagues when it comes to using VR to help us sell more jobs? Technology is here for the home renovation sector to embrace. Maybe this is the first time you have heard about BIM and VR. Maybe you thought this was all just a little too “science fiction” to be a practical tool you could use in your business. Maybe it is time for you to take a look at this new sales and marketing tool.
When you first learned about the internet you didn’t start by trying to get your stove to talk to your clothes drier. You likely figured out that email was practical, saved time and money, so you used that first. At some point you realized that using a website and social media could make your business easier to find and get you more jobs. The same is true with BIM and VR. No need to try and do it all at once. Start with the parts that will enhance your business and make you more money, then incorporate the other features as they make sense for your business.
Trade names and products referenced in this article are for illustration purposes only and their use is not an endorsement or recommendation by Renovation Contractor or CHBA.
Sources and Further Information
To learn more about BIM, VDC, and jobsite use of VR, visit the following sites.
For information on Envisioneer see: Cadsoft.com
To see VR in action: Youtube.com/watch?v=qYGdE0Zj7uc
For information on VR see: Cadsoft.com/products/virtual-reality
For more information on VR hardware compatible with Envisioneer see the following links:
Oculus: Oculus.com
HTC Vive: HTCVive.com/
HomeView VR: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cadsoft.google.cardboard&hl=en
itunes.apple.com/us/app/envisioneer-vr/id1201255972?ls=1&mt=8