It appears as though the future of telecommuting is almost here. Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a means for displaying 3D videos in real time – the holographic display. The exact science is far to complicated for me to attempt to wrap my brain around it, but from what I understand, it involves multiple cameras, fast-moving lasers, and photo reactive plastic. Oh, and a screen. A small screen. For some reason, all of this excitement is squeezed onto a small screen.
What does all of this have to do with telecommuting? Currently, the holographic video technology can update the image on the screen every two seconds. The goal is to advance the technology so that it operates in real time, which would mean a refresh rate of thirty times per second. Once the holographic video technology is operating in real time, users of the technology can stream the video over the internet and create a “holographic telepresence”. I wonder if the screens will be bigger by then.
The two major professions where holographic telecommuting is being considered for use are medicine and military. Highly specialized surgeons will be able to be “present” in the operating room to assist others with complicated operations. I cannot even begin to imagine the astronomical price tag that is attached to this technology. I also cannot imagine that it will find its way into the more usual telecommuting positions such as virtual assistant work and general office work. Unless, of course, the office that you work for wants to spend a small fortune just so that your “holographic telepresence” can hover over the reception desk. Holographic telecommuting is, at least to me right now, one of those things that is still a little bit “out there”. It will be interesting to see if it ends up becoming something that is widely used.