The report comes as agencies consider how to deliver digital government services in a way that employees can operate remotely. NASCIO recognizes that the metaverse could provide the best of both worlds, replicating the positive aspects of human interaction whether user are working from home or from the office. The organization also makes clear that a fully realized metaverse is still in development, but existing virtual and augmented reality technology has major tech companies already investing in virtual experiences.
Some governments already are testing the waters with virtual reality and augmented reality technology. One use case: using a virtual environment to offer more immersive employee training and more believable emergency preparedness simulations.
The report recommends additional use cases for state governments, including:
- Encouraging tourism by showing landmarks virtually through 3D tours of parks and notable areas
- Enhancing online learning by using the metaverse for lifelike virtual experiences
- Giving businesses virtual tours to encourage investment in the state and bolster the economy
With such emerging technologies, NASCIO says it’s time to set up governance and establish architecture to ensure states are using metaverse technology safely and responsibly.
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