HORTICULTURE may have to look to the video games industry for inspiration on how to tackle a digital future.
The issue of connecting with consumers in a growing digital age emerged as a theme at Australia’s largest horticulture event, Hort Connections 2018 at Brisbane this week.
One of the opening speakers was tech futurist, Chris Riddell, who addressed the issue of the human revolution and the acceptance of technology within everyday life, particularly retail experiences.
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He said the digital (online) world and the real world were increasingly blending which presented both opportunities and challenges.
“In the next three years, you will not be able to tell what is real and what is not,” he said.
”We live in a tech world. Every business in here is a tech business. You've got to keep up with this relentless pace of change.”
He challenged those in the room to think about the “gamification” of what they do in order to reach the upcoming, digitally savvy consumers, with the likes of augmented reality which could add a layer of experience to a fresh produce buying routine.
“Gaming is bigger than ever. How can you gamify your old world business model?” he said.
Blockchains and the “internet of things” were also flagged as areas to watch with many global businesses embracing them already.
“Blockchain will impact every single industry in the next few years. Times have never been so exciting,” Mr Riddell said.
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