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Virtual Salesperson

A new interactive presentation technology recently debuted at the South by Southwest Conference in Austin. Known as Virtual Presenter, the new product represents the next generation of digital communications, providing opportunities to merchandise products, capture data, generate leads and enhance social engagement.

The life-like digital avatar is projected from behind onto a silhouette-shaped pane, made up of millions of nano-sized glass beads, to produce a high-contrast image with a wide viewing angle. Users interact with the system and ask questions via a touch screen interface, which also allows them to share their experience on Facebook and Twitter.

Fully integrated versions are due to be launched in select automotive dealerships in New York and Florida this month. The goal is to provide dealers with a less intrusive way to qualify buyers and generate sales leads.

For information: 3M Corporation, 3M Center, St. Paul, MN 55144; phone: 888-364-3577; Web site: http://solutions.3m.com/

Daniel Burrus' Top Twenty Technology-Driven Trends for 2013