The Next Evolution of Collaborative Workplace

Immersive technologies are transforming workplace collaboration by creating shared environments that bridge physical distance. Through collaborative MR platforms, teams can interact with both real and digital objects simultaneously, working together as though they were in the same room. For example, architects can walk clients through 3D building models, engineers can refine prototypes side by side, and medical professionals can jointly plan complex procedures—all without needing to travel. These tools create a stronger sense of presence and engagement than traditional video calls, allowing team members to interpret body language, manipulate virtual objects, and co-create solutions in real time.

Beyond project collaboration, immersive technology is being embraced as a tool for connection and training in distributed workplaces. Remote teams are turning to VR meeting spaces and AR-enhanced workflows to replicate the nuance of in-person teamwork, from brainstorming sessions on virtual whiteboards to live guidance on physical tasks through AR overlays. Companies are also experimenting with holoportation, where holographic projections allow employees to appear and interact across continents, fostering stronger team bonds and reducing travel costs. As these tools mature, they promise to redefine collaboration in the era of hybrid and globalized workforces, making digital presence as impactful as physical presence.

Join us October 1st to learn more about how immersive technologies are being used as tools of collaboration for the workplace.

What's The Format:

We will start with informal networking with demonstrations, then host a panel discussion to answer audience questions, and we end with more networking and demonstrations. We keep it simple and informal – this meetup is about you, our members, and not just a soap box for the host, presenters, or our sponsors. Come and get your questions answered, take your next step in Immersive Technology.
5:30-8:30pm Central

5:30-6:15 PM Networking & Tech Demos

6:15-6:30 PM Welcome Message

6:30-7:10 PM Panelist Presentations

7:10-7:45 PM Panel Discussion with Q&A

7:45-8:30 PM Networking & Tech Demos

Hosts:
Matt Wren - In-Person Host - Founder & CTO of BUNDLAR
Caroline Dennis - Virtual Host - Two-Degrees.io and XRWomen

Panel Members:
Details Coming Soon...

Attending The Next Evolution

Joining in Person:

2112 | 4245 N Knox Ave

conveniently located off Interstate 90/94, one (1) block from the CTA Montrose Blue Line stop as well as the Metra Mayfair stop.
Watching the Live Stream

Primary Live Stream | www.youtube.com/@AWEXR/streams

People can join by watching the scheduled live stream where we will field questions from!

Joining in FRAME
Framevr.io/the-next-evolution-awe-nite-chicago

We encourage folks to join us in the virtual environment by simply clicking the link above.

The Frame virtual environment resembles a physical space, so you will be able to talk with other attendees prior to the start of the presentations. We suggest that you arrive no later than 6:00pm and we will get started promptly at 6:15. Please try to get familiar with the technology prior to the meetup, as we will be unable to provide support during the event. Share your camera or simply be a unique avatar or a robot!

The Next Evolution | AWE Nite Chicago Event Series (produced by VRAR Chicago) is now and always will be 100% free to attend.
Thanks to The Next Evolution Sponsors like UL Solutions, 2112, and beverage sponsors [system] seltzers and Revolution Brewing.

We would also like to thank our Community Partners that help us continue spreading the joy of immersive technologies: FrameVR, XR Women, NVZN, Patched Reality, Two Degrees.io, International Game Developers Association Chicago (IGDA Chicago).

Host or Publisher The Next Evolution, NFP