On August 28-30, 2023, the Department of Geospatial Information Science, Faculty of Geography, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a highly anticipated international event, “The 8th Geoinformation Science Symposium 2023.” The theme of this symposium was “Geoinformation Science for a Sustainable Planet,” highlighting the latest trends and developments in geospatial research and technology, as well as advances in geospatial education programs.
Aruvana joined in to enliven this event and was represented by CEO Indra Haryadi as one of the speakers on the final day (30, August) of the symposium, specifically in the industry session. In his captivating presentation entitled “Immersive Experience 101: Discovering Treasure in the Virtual Era,” Indra revealed how immersive technology holds tremendous potential, particularly in the context of geospatial applications.
Captivating Presentation on XR Technology’s Potential for Geospatial Sector
Immersive technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) offer the ability to bridge two different worlds: the physical and the virtual. Indra explained how this technology can provide users with deep experiences, including improved 3D visualization, interaction, and inspection of elements and objects. This technology allows users to feel as though they are present in a specific location or scene without the need for physical travel.
“So essentially, virtual technology helps us to experience teleportation from the reality we are currently experiencing. Right now, we are in the middle of an auditorium, but when using AR/VR/MR technology, we are transported to a new, alternate reality within it,” said Indra.
Indra highlighted various applications of immersive technology in the field of geospatial:
Scenario-Based Urban Planning
VR Experience can be used to create 3D city models and urban planning scenarios with ease, facilitating data integration and scenario development. This opens the door to participatory design involving government or stakeholders in city planning.
Education and Training
The use of augmented reality in educational settings can transform classrooms into more engaging learning experiences. AR-based educational resources can help students build valuable computer science skills.
Field Operations
AR/VR/MR technology can be used for visualizing underground infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and reducing operational and capital costs in the utility industry. Through immersive technology and mixed reality concepts, field operations become more effective.
Indra also explained, “The reason why we should learn about immersive experiences is very simple because the world is moving in that direction. How can I say this with certainty? It cannot be denied that most major technology companies such as HP, Vivo, Microsoft, Meta, and even Apple have already begun to venture into this field.”
Indra emphasized the importance of immersive learning technology in the context of Geospatial Information Science. In a world that is increasingly connected and driven by technological advances, the use of immersive technologies has great potential to change the way we understand and interact with geographic information. With VR, AR, and MR’s ability to provide immersive experiences, we can experience geographic phenomena up close, uncovering previously untapped potential in geospatial analysis and modelling.
Partnership Between the Faculty of Geography and Aruvana
During this event, a partnership agreement was also signed between Aruvana and the Faculty of Geography, Universitas Gadjah Mada. In his statement regarding this collaboration, Indra Haryadi expressed, “This partnership is a significant step towards merging geospatial knowledge with immersive technology. We hope that by collaborating with the Faculty of Geography, Universitas Gadjah Mada, we can create better innovations, advance research in this field, and deliver greater benefits to both the faculty and the community.”
The 8th Geoinformation Science Symposium 2023 is a significant event that bridges the world of geospatial with cutting-edge technology, and Indra Haryadi’s presentation from Aruvana provides valuable insights into the tremendous potential of this technology in creating deep and valuable experiences. Through the signing of the partnership agreement, Aruvana and the Faculty of Geography Universitas Gadjah Mada are committed to fostering collaboration that will bring positive developments in the field of geospatial and immersive technology.
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