Tech Trends 2015 Immersive Visualization Is Growing Up A new generation of visualization solutions provides tangible value in applications ranging from interpreting complex datasets to optimizing operations in real time and remotely monitoring assets in the field. By Kari Johnson Once the domain of scientists and specialists, visualization is moving rapidly into new applications and wider audiences. Initial fascination with the technology itself has given way to a focus on discovering where visualization provides tangible value in analyzing and collaborating on data. Visualization has expanded beyond the cave to cubes, hives, control rooms, and ad hoc centers. The mode-immersive, interactive, collaborative-now depends more on the application than the available facility. Engineers collaborate with field personnel, reviewing real-time data to improve drilling operations. Experts assist colleagues around the world with problems as they occur. Production teams monitor and control fields on- and offshore. Geologists explore reservoirs in 3-D space, while economists and business leaders combine huge datasets, looking for trends and opportunities. JANUARY 2015 149