Expanding Immersive Learning Capabilities with Hoverlay and Larabee

We’re excited to announce a new partnership with the phenomenal augmented reality (AR) platform Hoverlay.

AUTHOR: Chris Berg
September 13, 2024

A few years ago, I purchased a microwave oven combined with an air fryer. Sadly, the microwave didn't heat well, and the air fryer was hard to clean. Similarly, there are moments when two separate software capabilities converge into a singular experience. This technology convergence draws our attention because we expect something exceptional or even novel. Most often, I find myself disappointed. Then I remind myself that mutations in the biological world usually result in a neutral benefit and in some cases kill the organism.

In rare cases, however, something special emerges that works so well that it's hard to imagine life without it. Much of my career has been a front-row seat to convergences between ML, rules, process modeling, and low-code in the automation space. I understand the pitfalls and challenges convergence presents. But what does this have to do with Larabee?

At Larabee, we focus on operational problems that can't be automated—at least not for a while. Nor can these operational activities be integrated into a human workflow because it just doesn't make sense. There are those worst-case scenarios where production requires sleight-of-hand, experience with temperatures, tools, measurement, and feel. Twenty steps might all occur within a five-minute window, and there is no software in the middle—just pure human activity.

Some of these activities directly connect to revenue and remain a single point of failure for many organizations. When people leave, so does their tribal knowledge and know-how. Larabee dives into these nightmare scenarios and provides a way out, combining serious methodology, practice, and observation to preserve institutional knowledge and reduce both the cost and time to train new team members with the required skill and precision. Frankly, it's awesome, but it can be better.

Immersive learning is our North star. Our senses are alive with focus and intent. Sometimes, the learner has their hands on tools, scientific instruments, or food. We do our best to limit distractions, which is why we implemented hands-free navigation. With a simple "Hey Larabee," the learner can proceed or go back without having to clean up. Moreover, an insight (help from a trusted expert) is always ready to provide digital confidence with the history and reasoning behind why something is important.

As I said earlier, it's awesome. However, the learner, in most cases, must turn their head to watch a specific step or observe an expert. Depending on the business case, this is often good enough, but we are not satisfied. We believe a learner shouldn't have to take their eyes off the task—even for a moment. That's immersive. Back to convergence. We believe that the confluence of augmented reality (AR) and immersive digital learning will deliver exceptional experiences—no holding of devices, head turning, or extraneous equipment getting in the way.

To this end, we are excited to announce our partnership with Hoverlay—a pioneer in AR experiences covering art, culture, civic engagement, and yes, learning. Nicolas Robbe, CEO and founder of Hoverlay, is no stranger to enterprise problems, having spent many years at IBM, where we worked together. The team here at Larabee couldn't be more excited. What does this mean practically? We are ready to engage with early adopters. Bring us your worst-case scenarios. Larabee is at the ready.