A virtual demonstrator is a room that takes the user into a simulated world, where he or she can use and experience new technologies in close-to-real circumstances.

The virtual demonstrator features the following:

• 360 degree display of 3D environments that surrounds the users;
• theatre surround sound;
• interconnectivity with real devices (for example, cell phones, GPS devices, and computers);
• interconnectivity with an innovation show case;
• software that simulates environments, artificial characters and specific scenarios; and a
• industrial acting stage.

Supporting this immersive area is an observation station, where the reactions and behaviour of users in a test situation can be monitored.

The demonstrator as a tool that supports innovation has many uses; it can serve as

• a test bed;
• a usability lab;
• a training facility; and
• a technology showcase and playground.

The virtual demonstrator will make many of the tenuous ideas of new technology explicit, and so help reduce the number of unknowns that characterises innovation before it is taken to market.

One of our current projects consists out of conducting a survey on behalf of the Meraka Institute: Questionnaire for SA National Software Development Capability.

This survey is part of the Meraka Institute’s efforts to build South Africa’s software development capability, with which they aim to strengthen software development competence, increase software innovation, and provide R&D support in government policy.

The survey asks developers questions about the kind of software they develop, their processes, the technologies they use, and so on. Users of specialised software are asked about their needs, the platforms they use, and what opportunities and problems mould the software market in South Africa.

If you are a developer or user of custom-built software, please help shape the future of software development by filling in the survey. You will get feedback on the trends in South African software development, and stand the chance to win an iPod Touch. It might also be a good opportunity to self-audit your systems and processes.

Who are we? InnovationLab is a company that help you to innovate — from contracting research, and conducting innovation workshops, to building simulations and physical demonstrators in which you can test and show off your innovations to prospective clients. See What we do and How we do it.

So what will we blog about? Mostly about our projects (often with sneak previews of the visualisation and simulation software we are building), but sometimes also about the process of innovation, especially those issues we experience down here at the tip of Africa. Stay tuned!