Passing of Dr. Michael Rygol

Michael was a true expert in the 3D visualisation space. After a stint in the late 1980’s in the US, Michael returned to the UK to become a research associate in 3D Computer Vision at the University of Sheffield. This led to a distinguished career in Immersive Technology including time spent in New Zealand, returning to the UK and Bristol to work at DIVISION, as VR R&D lead and Director of Marketing and Product Management.

DIVISION was acquired by PTC (an AREA sponsor member) and Michael held numerous executive roles delivering product and solution management. We spoke many times about the hard work and fun he enjoyed working at PTC and I’m certain that his dedication, insights and intelligence were important factors in the success of PTC today.

After leaving PTC in 2017, the AREA was fortunate to secure Michael’s time as the AREA Researcher. At the same time, the AREA also worked with Michael’s business partner and wife, Angela. For over 4 years, Michael was fundamental in creating in depth, thought leadership content for the AREA members. Blog articles include:

• How to Get Beyond the “Cool Demo” to Full Deployment
• Overcoming barriers to AR adoption
• How does AR fit into a company technology strategy?
• Enterprise AR Solutions: Build or Buy? (AREA Podcast)

Michael was also the lead for the development of the AREA Statement of Needs (ASoN) tool, used for collecting and delivering enterprise AR Requirements.

Michael was not only an expert in the enterprise AR field, but he was a good friend, with a wicked sense of humour and one of life’s all-round good guys. He will be missed. The AREA family sends their thoughts and condolence to Angela and the family.