The challenge: Visualising the impact of technology on the professions of tomorrow
The main challenge was to turn the vision of The Next Fifty initiative into a tangible, educational and inspiring tool. IE University sought not only to theorise about the future, but also to enable its students and visitors to experience first-hand the ethical, logistical and technological challenges that future generations will face in their workplaces.
To achieve this, it was necessary to create an environment that integrated complex forward-looking concepts: from the use of extended neural reality (ExNR) chips and nanobots in the bloodstream (BodyBots) for health monitoring, to the transition from permanent jobs to interconnected global project networks (WorkNet). The experience had to be intuitive yet profound, reflecting how AI and biotechnology will transform our productivity and personal well-being.
IE University
An educational institution recognised globally for its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and humanistic leadership.
The solution: A virtual odyssey of crossed roles and decisions
We designed a branching virtual reality experience where users can choose between profiles with different levels of responsibility, such as David Schmidt (Global Worker) or Anna Piquer (Financial Analyst). Through holographic interfaces, users interact with intelligent assistants to manage their body energy, make decisions about nutrition, and collaborate with bots in the development of sustainable products for global brands in circular economy projects.
The solution included the recreation of futuristic scenarios such as “Work Hubs” and isolation booths, which replace the traditional office with dynamic coworking environments where social and professional life converge organically.
- The story evolves and changes according to the choices made by the user.
- Data visualisation and communication with bots without traditional physical screens.
- Real-time monitoring of the improvement of technical and social skills during the experience.
- Recreation of smart homes and minimalist work hubs with sustainable technology.
Key findings
The project succeeded in positioning IE University at the forefront of the global discussion on the future of work, attracting a diverse audience during its 50th anniversary celebrations.
The experience provided a deep understanding that artificial intelligence will not replace humans, but rather act as a catalyst for their creative and strategic abilities, allowing users to experience the success of human-bot collaboration in a safe and controlled environment.
