Value orientation on the way to the metaverse

The digital transformation is progressing worldwide – and immersive technologies such as the Metaverse are opening up new opportunities for companies across Europe. At the same time, they call for a new, shared way of thinking about ethical standards, social responsibility and sustainable innovation.

As part of several think tank rounds, initiated by the Metaverse Europe Foundation in Paris and Brussels and in cooperation with the German government’s SME Digital Network in Germany, we have intensively discussed key issues relating to the responsible design of immersive technologies.
The resulting handout summarizes the most important findings and provides companies in Europe with concrete recommendations for practical action.

Why these results are particularly important for European companies

• Protect and strengthen European values: Freedom, participation, data protection and sustainability must also remain the basis of our actions in the digital space.
• Exploiting cross-border potential: The Metaverse enables new forms of cooperation, product development and market development that make European companies fit for the future.
• Taking responsibility: Through ethical guidelines and value-oriented actions, companies create trust and long-term stability in a dynamic digital world.

Key findings of our think tank work

• Designing technologies with a focus on people: Innovation must not be based solely on efficiency and profitability – the focus must be on people.
• A wide range of opportunities for SMEs: from virtual recruiting and digital development and production processes to innovative marketing, new opportunities are opening up for small and medium-sized enterprises in particular.
• New demands on managers:
  • Taking responsibility for change
  • Actively involve and integrate employees
  • Defining corporate values in dialog
  • Building trust through transparency and the gradual introduction of new technologies
  • Setting an example of innovation and ethical behavior

Our common goal

With this initiative, the Metaverse Europe Foundation and its partners want to make a contribution to shaping the digital transformation in Europe in a value-based, innovative and sustainable way.
The paper, which was developed together with Mittelstand-Digital, offers valuable guidance for companies of all sizes and from all sectors.

Download the handout