A MIDDLESBROUGH tech firm looking to create virtual working spaces, tackling problems around personal contact or the need for non-essential travel during the coronavirus pandemic, is collaborating with a Newcastle-based firm to kickstart the project's development.

Animmersion UK, at Boho One, and Onyx Health, in Hoults Yard, are combining expertise to create virtual working spaces for the healthcare sector by fast-tracking Animmersion’s Virtual Interactive Events (VIE) service, which will enable businesses to create custom virtual meeting spaces, including exhibitions stands and virtual showrooms.

Launched at the start of the lockdown, the software includes real-time 3D pitching software, online interactive product explorers and virtual and augmented reality, to deliver virtual event and remote presentation services, adding a new sense of sustainability to current remote working.

At a time when face to face conferences and events are being postponed indefinitely and access to clinicians restricted due to the Covid-19 outbreak, VIE enables engagement past video existing video software.

Samuel Harrison, managing director of Animmersion UK, said: “Businesses are having to evolve quickly to new ways of working, including the application of new technologies. Onyx Health has been quick to identify how VIE can support clients in their marketplace.

"This new collaboration demonstrates that business and innovation can carry on, even in the toughest of times, and we are very much looking forward to a positive relationship with Onyx Health.”

Karen Winterhalter, managing director of Onyx Health, added: “The Covid-19 crisis has created seismic changes in the world of healthcare communications.

“Maintaining a business as usual agenda in the wake of the Covid-19 restrictions inspired us to develop an innovative new solution to communicate and engage with our existing clients and targeted audiences.

"Animmersion’s inspired use of digital technology has helped us to create a unique immersive virtual learning experience that will bridge the communication gap in the sector.”