Web3 and Immersive Technology: A UK Perspective on Innovation and Growth

The UK has long been a global leader in technology and innovation, with its rich history of pioneering advancements across multiple industries. From the invention of the World Wide Web to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, the UK has consistently punched above its weight on the global stage. But with today’s challenges becoming increasingly complex, it’s time to ask how emerging technologies, like Web3 and immersive solutions, are shaping our ability to address modern challenges across UK industry, government, and academia.

At Origin Secured, we’re motivated by one central question: How can technology redefine trust and information sharing efficiency, while driving economic growth? This blog explores how Web3 in particular can answer these questions, and why the UK must take a bold position as a global leader in this space.

The Challenges Facing UK Industry, Government, and Academia

Industry

Organisations across the UK are grappling with workforce inefficiencies, rising compliance costs, and growing threats like identity fraud and cybersecurity breaches. Industries such as construction, facilities management, hospitality, and logistics, face acute challenges around managing workflows, safeguarding sensitive data, and ensuring easy yet secure onboarding processes for employees. Outdated identity verification systems and static credentials aren’t keeping pace with modern threats, leaving companies vulnerable to fraud and inefficiencies.

Public sector bodies encounter similar hurdles. From ensuring compliance with policies like the Modern Slavery Act to tackling fraudulent activities and managing secure data infrastructure, the government must juggle transparency, accountability, and innovation while working under tight budgets. Transforming core identity and verification systems isn’t just desirable; it’s essential for secure service delivery to millions of citizens.

Research institutions, too, face unique obstacles. Collaboration across borders requires seamless identity assurance, particularly when managing intellectual property exchanges or complying with international data regulations like GDPR. Counterfeiting, data mishandling, and delays in administrative approvals drain time and resources that could be better invested in innovation.

Now more than ever, a unifying technological framework is needed to ensure secure, efficient, and scalable solutions across the board.

The Role of Web3 and Immersive Technologies

Web3, a decentralised and blockchain-inspired version of the internet, offers transformational potential by enabling secure, transparent, and tamper-proof solutions for identity, trust, and collaboration. Meanwhile, immersive technologies

(think augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality) create new avenues for engagement, training, and problem solving. Together, these innovations offer fresh ways to address deeply ingrained challenges.

Web3’s decentralisation mantra means data ownership is reimagined, shifting from centralised systems to individuals. For industries, this change reduces reliance on “honeypot” data vaults that hackers frequently target, empowering individuals to control and share their own verified information that may be hosted in multiple locations.

Origin Secured is pioneering this shift with our reusable, cryptographically proven identity credentials that incorporate live verification through trusted third-party endorsers, including government-approved ID Service Providers (IDSPs). Imagine a FM worker showing up on-site with live credentials available on their verified OS Digital Licence, and the same app granting seamless access to compliance systems across multiple employers. The benefits? Reduced onboarding delays, fewer counterfeit certifications, and a significant drop in administrative overhead for business.

Credentials powered by technology inspired by Web3 could transform sectors like logistics, healthcare, and retail;, combating fraud and simplifying workforce management while instilling trust throughout all levels of an operation.

Immersive technologies add an entirely new dimension to workforce readiness. For instance, virtual reality can train construction workers on complex machinery in a low-risk environment, while augmented reality overlays could guide them in real-time on a building site.

Government functions also stand to benefit. District-wide safety drills or public service announcements, delivered via immersive 3D experiences, could maximise engagement and retention compared to passive means like email or posters.

Academia, too, is poised to integrate immersive environments for hands-on learning, especially in STEM fields. Visualising molecular structures in 3D or simulating historical events immersively can transform the educational experience.

When paired with Origin Secured’s reusable identity credential, immersive platforms would bring secure access to these technologies, ensuring compliance and accountability while fostering innovation.

The UK’s ventures into Web3 and immersive technologies aren’t just about solving domestic problems; they’re about positioning the UK as a global hub for groundbreaking innovation. With the right infrastructure, policies, and partnerships, the UK can:

1. Attract international investment into emerging technologies, creating jobs and uplifting regional economies.

3. Set global standards for ethical technology use, data privacy, and intellectual property protection.

4. Bolster economic growth by supporting SMEs and startups building upon Web3 foundations.

At Origin Secured, we’ve developed solutions that align with government-led strategies, including the UK Digital ID Framework and EU AML (Anti-Money Laundering) regulations, demonstrating how secure identity systems are vital to economic and operational resilience.

The Digital Cleaners Licence, launched by Origin Secured, serves as a practical example of how the UK can lead in innovation. Designed to make onboarding seamless, ensure compliance, prevent fraud, and reduce costs, the licence demonstrates how multi-layered solutions can solve entrenched issues. Take TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings): traditionally an administrative labyrinth, our digital licence achieves TUPE transfers in minutes, opening valuable time for strategic work.

By scaling similar Web3-driven solutions across sectors, the UK can create ripple effects for its economy, tackle skills shortages, and foster technological breakthroughs that place it firmly on the global leader board.

A Call to Collaborate

Driving economic growth through Web3 and immersive technologies requires collaboration. Between government policymakers, private enterprises, and education leaders, the shared vision must be to reshape systems architecture around trust, efficiency, and scalability.

Origin Secured is here to contribute to that vision. With our cutting-edge developments in reusable identity credentials, we’re proving that UK innovation can solve not just local, but global challenges.

Now is the time for businesses, academics, and policymakers to seize these opportunities together.

Technology and Innovation programme activities

techUK bring members, industry stakeholders, and UK Government together to champion emerging technologies as an integral part of the UK economy. We help to create an environment where innovation can flourish, helping our members to build relationships, showcase their technology, and grow their business. Visit the programme page here.