What is the virtual collaboration workspace?
The virtual collaboration workspace is a secure, three-dimensional, online meeting where users can create, modify and share information at anytime from anywhere. In this interactive space, users customize avatars (computer-animated characters) to perform diverse work-related and social activities.
This highly immersive environment integrates voice over internet protocol (VoIP), live chat, webcam video and multiple applications―enabling meaningful and productive online interactions.
Who can access the space?
The virtual collaboration workspace is geared specifically for Military Service Members to use when communicating with their coaches, supervisors and HR professionals during deployments. Military Service Members can also invite supervisors and HR professionals to join the virtual conversation, either with or without a coach.
Why use the virtual collaboration workspace?
The virtual collaboration workspace helps Military Service Members stay connected to their VA organization while deployed. Military Service Members have the opportunity to interact in more ways and across different channels in this virtual world, enabling them to keep in touch from anywhere.
What can Military Service Members do in the workspace?
Working together in the virtual space, the user and coach can simultaneously review and edit documents, review training, explore websites, watch videos, and write or draw on whiteboards―all in real time. The virtual meetings can include the use of phones, live chats or “face-to-face” conversations via webcam.
How does it work?
The Military Service Member enters their personal room at anytime and invites attendees―such as a coach or supervisor―to join him or her in the space. In the room, a Military Service Member can:
- Translate military skills into civilian competencies
- Discuss project details with a supervisor
- Touch base with an HR professional about civilian healthcare benefits
- And much more
What are the benefits to working in a virtual space?
Virtual collaboration results in more engaging and productive conversations, enabling completion of real work product. By creating a live, interactive work environment online, deployed Military Service Members can efficiently complete professional and personal tasks and work toward achieving better vocational outcomes using technology ideally suited to online collaboration.
In sharing one online space, they get all the benefits of an in-person meeting, no matter where they are.
What does the virtual workspace look like?
The Military Service Member controls what his or her personal workspace looks like. Avatars can be designed to reflect the user’s preferred look and photos, logos and images can be posted throughout the room. Multiple display panels and a white board allow users to view and collaborate on multiple documents, spreadsheets, presentations, videos and websites simultaneously.
How many people can be in the room at one time?
Up to 10 people (and their avatars) can gather in a virtual workspace. For a larger group, like a team meeting, a coach can help set up an online conference room or auditorium.
How do I get started?
Click here to request a coach. The coach will help you create an account, issue your username and password and provide a brief tutorial of the tool’s functionality.
Can I save my work sessions and documents to review later?
Yes. Even when you leave the virtual space, the work sessions remain active. You can immediately access documents and previous sessions saved to the workspace upon resuming activity.
Do I always need a coach to be in the room?
No, you can enter your virtual space at any time. However, you do need to complete an initial orientation session with a coach.
I want to meet with my supervisor about an issue related to my job but I don’t want him to have access to my personal room. What should I do?
Share this request with your coach. He or she can set up a “neutral” meeting space outside of your personal room for you to meet with your supervisor.
What if I don’t have an internet connection?
Without an internet connection, you will not be able to use the virtual collaboration tool. You can still work with a coach over the phone.
Request a coach here.