Hosting Business Meetings and Special Events in Virtual Worlds: A Fad or the Future?

Several industry challenges have resulted in reduced business activity. Additionally, reduced budgets combined with increased demands have required practitioners to be innovative in meeting business needs. In response, some forward-thinking companies have adopted information technology solutions. This research investigates the awareness, acceptance, and adoption of virtual reality applications. Findings indicate that virtual meetings and special events are innovative and viable methods to effectively and efficiently achieve organizational objectives. Still, in the early stages of development, the use of virtual reality within the meetings, incentive, convention, and exhibition industry looks promising; however, widespread adoption may be years away.