Digital Futures

Digital Colonialism in the Global Sphere

Digital Colonialism in the Global Sphere

Colonialism has consistently been a force in the global purview, including the technological space. In recent years, the expansion of artificial intelligence has vastly increased corporations’ global influence. As the world’s technologies continue to advance and innovate, individuals must keep a watchful eye on the ways in which digital colonialism might repeat harmful practices from the past.

Consumer Habits and Wants in AR, VR and the Metaverse

Consumer Habits and Wants in AR, VR and the Metaverse

Researchers conducted surveys and industry expert interviews to understand current and future consumer demand for AR, VR and Metaverse entertainment options. The survey indicated that consumers were most interested in using AR and VR to enhance experiences in concerts, educational content, and gaming. Respondents also indicated that they were interested in joining the metaverse to participate in social experiences and to attend live music events. The research unveiled generational differences, emerging opportunities, and trends to follow to best meet consumer demands.

The Potential Market for AR, VR and the Metaverse

The Potential Market for AR, VR and the Metaverse

Even though VR, AR, and the metaverse are already a growing part of the consumer

marketplace, it is still important to define these relatively new technologies since they are not yet

mainstream. VR technology enables users to immerse themselves in and “interact with a

computer-generated environment, a simulation of the real world or an imaginary world” (Akbari

et al, 2022). In contrast, AR technology incorporates digital elements or objects into the real-

world environment in real-time (Akbari et al, 2022). The VR market is expected to generate a

global revenue of $20.8 billion, and the AR market is projected to grow to $31.3 billion by 2027

(Statista, 2022a). The market projections indicate the potential growth and opportunities in these

immersive technologies.

Digital Strategy: Not Optional Anymore

Digital Strategy: Not Optional Anymore

Digital strategy has become a buzzword after the explosion of AI in the last 18 months. Yet, it is not about AI. AI has been the tipping point for organizations and professionals to recognize that they must update or create a digital strategy for success. Digitally-forward arts organizations already have a digital component as part of their strategic plan. Read more to understand the need for technology to be a core component of strategic plans and operations.

Top 10 Articles of 2023

Top 10 Articles of 2023

Every year we review our analytics to highlight what you, our readers, have found the most compelling.  In 12 short months, we have witnessed the overwhelming dominance of AI and 2022’s hottest topic (NFTs) go bust. The top 10 listed below show how YOU have followed the change over 2023. 

November News: The Changing Landscape for Digital Participation in the Arts

November News: The Changing Landscape for Digital Participation in the Arts

Exciting to many, distressing to some – digital media continues to hold the largest share of arts participation, and platforms are finding new ways to engage with online audiences. As new trends emerge, creators across disciplines are advocating and winning  fair compensation and increased protection of their work. From SAG-AFTRA to regional theatre, contracts with creators are offering greater rewards for digital content and protections for current and future AI.

How President Biden's Executive Order Might Affect Artists and Arts Organizations

How President Biden's Executive Order Might Affect Artists and Arts Organizations

On Monday, the headlines were ablaze with President Biden’s executive order addressing safe, secure, and trustworthy Artificial Intelligence. At 111 pages, the order offers a breadth of policy frameworks and standards creation that affect government operations and industry reporting. However, several areas of note have a direct potential impact on the work of artists and arts organizations: Watermarks of content authenticity, Copyright, and Labor.

AI and Virtual Production: The Past Meets the Future

AI and Virtual Production:  The Past Meets the Future

Technology has played a critical role in the film industry since its inception. Advances in the film industry are always closely related to technological advances in society, integrating them quickly into the filmmaking process. Almost every aspect of filmmaking, from pre-production to post-production, from digital cameras, editing software, sound and music, distribution, exhibition, and of course, special effects, has undergone major changes and has evolved over the last 190 years. 

Contemporary, traditional film production involves building physical sets, scouting locations, and coordinating large crews and equipment, all of which can be time-consuming and expensive. To overcome some of these "problems" or “needs” was born what we know today as Virtual Production. Virtual production has and will be further enhanced by the opportunities afforded by artificial intelligence.

Digital Inequity's Impact On Arts Participation Pt. II

Digital Inequity's Impact On Arts Participation Pt. II

This is the second installment of research relating to digital equity and arts communities. The research discusses the potential role of media and digital arts in the fight toward digital equity, compares barriers to digital participation with arts participation, and explores the role of libraries as critical players in combatting digital inequity.

Digital Inequity's Impact on Arts Participation Pt. I

Digital Inequity's Impact on Arts Participation Pt. I

how does digital inequity impact the arts sector and how might the arts sector respond to the digital inequities in their communities? This research was compiled under the belief that the arts can have a role in combatting issues of equity and inclusion outside the field of arts and culture. The arts’ role in the broader public sphere can improve the lives of all members of a community. The hope for this research is to begin to understand how that can begin to take shape to address digital inequity.