Is Augmented Reality Right for Your Product?

An AR Use Case Framework (Google Worksheet)

Sam Decker

April 13, 2023

Augmented Reality (and the larger immersive reality options) can revolutionize the go-to-market activities for various industries. Are you in one of those industries? Let’s explore whether incorporating AR is the right move for your brand and product…

First, context. At Fair Worlds we focus on immersive reality projects that drive ROI. Immersive reality has to be right for your product, your customers and your marketing/sales activities. Further, we believe immersive reality is a journey, where ROI can grow after the first project because you’ve built assets and a foundation that become working capital. 

With this context, we developed a framework for evaluating the impact AR can have to your business. In short, there are four considerations (the first being the most important):

  1. How will AR help customers consider buying my product?
  2. Do I have methods/channels to bring customers to an AR experience?
  3. Do I have interest in an Immersive Reality future?

Here is a Google Worksheet that you can freely copy or download and score your products and your market for fit for an Augmented Reality experience for your product or brand. There’s not really a ‘score’, because that would be contrived. This is more of a self-assessment, exploration and discussion document with your team and/or our team. But in short, if you have a lot of “X”s in this framework, consider yourself overdue for Augmented Reality! 

Here’s the assessment in action...

One of our clients is PoolCorp, which supplies tiles, coping and other products to pool builders and consumers. Fair Worlds built a pool customizer, called NPT Backyard. As an example, here would be their scorecard:

Here's an example of our AR Fit Assessment. 👆

To expand on the #1 consideration, there are key customer product considerations. Ask if these are important to sell your product to your customers:

They need to see the size / how it fits

One of the primary challenges in online shopping is understanding how a product will fit in a specific space or on the user. AR enables customers to virtually "try on" products or place them in their environment, providing an accurate representation of size and fit, and ultimately helping them make informed purchase decisions.

They need to see your product in THEIR environment

AR allows customers to visualize your products in their own space. This way, they can determine if it complements their existing environment, fits their needs, or requires adjustments. This immersive experience enhances consideration because they can “see” your product in THEIR world.

They need to see how it looks up close

AR technology enables users to inspect products up close, revealing intricate details, textures, and finishes. This level of detail can greatly impact a customer's decision-making process, as they gain a better understanding of the product's quality and craftsmanship.

They need to see how it physically operates

Customers can use AR to see how your product operates in real life. This is particularly helpful for complex or high-tech products, as it allows users to gain a practical understanding of the product's functionality, ultimately boosting confidence in their purchase.

They need to 'experience' benefits of features

AR experiences can visualize benefits of the features in your product, and engage customers in a way that traditional marketing cannot. Interactive demonstrations and simulations can create a more profound understanding of the product and its advantages.

They need to customize and compare configurations

AR empowers customers to customize and compare different product configurations. This feature is particularly valuable for businesses offering products with multiple options, as it allows users to visualize their preferred combination before making a purchase.

They need to engage or do something fun with your product

Gamification and interactive experiences can make your product more engaging and enjoyable for customers. This not only enhances user satisfaction but also encourages brand loyalty and word-of-mouth marketing.

They need to share any of the above with others

AR experiences are highly shareable via email, text or social. This allowing customers to share their visualizations and interactions with your product with other stakeholders in the purchase process. And, if shared publicly, can generate buzz around your brand and can lead to increased exposure and sales.

If any of the factors above fit with your customers and product, it's time to consider incorporating augmented reality. If many of these are a fit, it’s a home run and call us immediately! 🙂

By offering your customers an immersive and interactive experience, you'll not only boost sales and customer satisfaction but also set your brand apart from the competition.

We're here to help!