The way businesses present themselves online never stands still. New technologies keep adding ways to strengthen an online presence, and two of the most popular are the virtual tour and traditional photos and video. They can look alike at first glance, yet they give visitors very different experiences. In this article, we look at what separates the two approaches and how each can shape the way people see your business.
1. An immersive experience
One of the main differences between a virtual tour and traditional photos and video is how immersive the experience is. Photos and video are fixed: they do not let people explore the space in any depth. A virtual tour lets them move freely around the space and interact with what is in it.
2. Your website's search ranking
Because it is immersive, a virtual tour tends to hold people's attention for longer. Visitors are more likely to spend time exploring its different areas, which means longer visits to your website and, in turn, better search rankings.
3. How your business comes across
A virtual tour can show your business in a better light than a single photo or video. It gives a complete picture of the place: the overall atmosphere, the layout of the premises, the feel of the space. Visitors come away with a clearer idea of what your business has to offer.
4. Cost and availability
A virtual tour generally costs more to produce than a simple photo or video. It takes specialist equipment and a team of professionals, such as the easyVirtual.tours network, to create it. Once it is made, though, it adds real value: it is available at any time and can be viewed by as many people as you like.
5. Use across different channels
Finally, a virtual tour works across many channels: your website, your social media accounts, and even online booking or shopping platforms. It can also support sales presentations, trade shows and promotional events.
In short, a virtual tour and traditional photos and video give visitors very different experiences. If you want to offer them something immersive, engaging and complete, a virtual tour may be the ideal solution.
