Supply Chain and the Metaverse: A New Solution to a Pressing Problem?
Architects and designers don't need to be reminded how frustrating supply chain issues and the extended lead times and delays they have caused. The ongoing challenge seems to have no end in sight, with new materials becoming seemingly more difficult to sort each week. What if emerging technologies like the metaverse could help alleviate not only this issue, but also the problems with product sampling?
In this episode, Erin McDannald, CEO and co-owner of Lighting Environments, and its sister company, Environments, talks about how the metaverse can be a powerful tool in designers’ hands as they navigate the new normal that is project management and product sourcing. She offers insights born out of real-world experience and explains how the technology works as well as how it can help design firms become more efficient and sustainable.
Meet our guest
Now a pioneer for IoT (Internet of Things) integration and building and workplace management, McDannald is leading today’s workforce through powerful digital transformation with the Elevated Environments™ app. Environments is an IoT integrator and software development company offering full-scale adaptable solutions that support businesses from end-to-end, from energy management to health monitoring.
Through every development and service, Environments elevates physical spaces to allow for cutting-edge interaction and collaboration within the digital twin, metaverse, and beyond. It continues cultivating spaces supporting health and wellness within connected environments serving each user and occupant.
About the Author
Robert NieminenRobert Nieminen
Market Content Director
Market Content Director, American School & University, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources
Robert Nieminen is the Market Content Director of four leading B2B publications serving the commercial architecture and design industries: American School & University, Architectural Products, BUILDINGS, and interiors+sources. With a career rooted in editorial excellence and a passion for storytelling, Robert oversees a diverse content portfolio that spans award-winning feature articles, strategic podcast programming, and digital media initiatives aimed at empowering design professionals, facility managers, and commercial building stakeholders.
He is the host of the I Hear Design podcast and curates the Smart Buildings Technology Report, bringing thought leadership to the forefront of innovation in built environments. Robert leads editorial and creative direction for multiple industry award programs—including the Elev8 Design Awards and Product Innovation Awards—and is a recognized voice in sustainability, smart technology integration, and forward-thinking design.
Robert's work has earned him industry-wide recognition throughout his career, including:
- ASBPE Award (2019, 2018, 2017, 2015)—Best Regularly-Contributed Column; retrofit
- TABPI Award (2017, 2016)—Top 25 Entries, Cover Story; Retail Environments
- WPA Maggie Award (2011, 2010, 2008)—Best Publication, Trade; interiors+sources
- FOLIO: Eddie Gold Award (2022, 2007)—Best Feature Article & Special Section; interiors+sources
- Contributing author of ASID’s 2020 Outlook and State of Interior Design report, as well as The State of the Interior Design Profession (Fairchild Books, 2010), which earned a place on the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers’ “50 Must Read, Must Have” book list.
