Virtual training has been used to help a helicopter pilot experience landing in a war-zone without the risk or to help a psychiatric nurse see the world through the eyes of a schizophrenic. But now virtual reality is entering the business world of workplace meetings, training, sales, and research and development. Early users of the technology include Sears and IBM.

Early applications include life simulations like Second Life—a virtual world where 2.5 million people have created virtual counterparts, called “avatars,” to simulate study, play, and work.

IBM has used the technology to create a game called Robocode. Players learn Java programming because they must use it to create a robot they take into virtual battle against other users’ robotic creations. IBM has also set up a virtual headquarters in Second Life, where anyone in the company can send their avatar to meetings with other IBM employees from all over the world.

IBM uses the virtual environment to send new hires through orientation, benefits sign-up, and lessons on expense reports, regardless of their location. Even retired IBM employees come to the Second Life location to volunteer as mentors or to attend their own events.

People choose an avatar to represent them, and many choose one that looks a lot like them in real life. Insurance companies are using the concept to help train claims adjusters how to respond to car crashes and house fires. Other businesses are using Second Life for sales purposes, using “virtual showrooms” to show prototypes of merchandise. Eventually, the technology may be used for shopping. Consumers could send their avatars into virtual stores to handle the merchandise and talk to clerks.