Immersive technology is versatile and varied, offering a whole range of practical uses that make our lives easier, from virtual events to AR app. In our ‘Quick guide’ blog series, we take a look at some of the services we offer here at Infinite Form to help you understand the types of experiences available – and how they benefit you. Here we explore how bespoke web-based platforms enable brands and organisations to target key audiences with a focussed and easily-accessible browser-based experience, from a one-off virtual event to a long-term virtual exhibition.

What is a web-based platform?

Essentially a web-based platform is a content hub that’s hosted online and accessed via a web browser. But, unlike a normal website, web-based platforms are custom built for a specific purpose on a project-by-project basis. This could be for an event, such as a virtual open day or virtual conference, or for a specific target audience, such as the employees of a company. The platform’s functionality and content is carefully tailored to the project, from live broadcasts to video – offering a content-rich space for an organisation to communicate with its audience.

Why have one?

All you need to access a web-based platform is an internet browser – making web-based immersive experiences easily accessible anywhere in the world. Built specifically to your needs, they allow you to share content and messaging with your target audience over a designated timeframe in a simple, useful and engaging way. And because they’re custom-built, web-based platforms can include a range of features, such as:

• Live broadcasts and video streaming
• Web chat
• 360º and 2D video hosting
• Integration with third party sites, e.g. YouTube and Vimeo
• 3D assets
• Image galleries
• Audio files
• CMS and analytics
• ...and more.

What are the benefits?

Wide reach

You can access a browser experience anywhere with an internet connection, without the need for extra technology such as a VR headset. This makes it easier to reach a wider audience. With the current coronavirus pandemic restricting travel and gatherings, digital platforms offer a virtual alternative to people-heavy events such as conferences and open days – and can even have greater reach. For example, the Virtual Open Day platform we built for the UEA saw an 131% increase in visitor numbers than their previous open days, including multiple international engagements.

Easily scalable

Web platforms can be tailored to include as much content as you want, giving you complete control over your message. They can range from a one-time event that’s available for a precise time frame, for example a three-day virtual conference, to a permanent web portal that people can visit again and again – such as the IWM’s Hall of Remembrance. The content can also be scaled up or down depending on its usage, for example a virtual art gallery could have artworks added over time.

Value for money

Unlike a one-off event, a web-based platform version is available for you to re-use in the future – creating a cost-effective and valuable sales tool that you can use time and time again. For example, a virtual open day platform can always be deployed alongside a physical open day not only to increase accessibility but also to share as much information as possible, which might be missed during a physical visit. What’s more, a digital version of an open day or conference allows users to revisit after the event, helping them make up their minds and driving conversions.

How do we do it?

Our team includes expert developers with many years of experience creating complex back-end systems and web platforms. We will work with you to devise your platform, including the types of content you want to include, and will design and build it from scratch to your precise specifications. We can either create the content for you or embed pre-existing content, and we can integrate the platform with your current systems – e.g. a web chat service – if that is required. We will also support the platform during a live event, e.g. a conference or open day to ensure it runs smoothly and provide you with analytics that help to guide and inform your strategy.