Immersive Workplace Training Powered by AR & VR Technology
As augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology continues to advance, so does its potential to completely revolutionize corporate training programs. In recent years, AR devices have greatly evolved, proving the technology has long-term viability. The implementation of large-scale, AR-driven training initiatives is not only a real possibility for today’s employers, but it’s a solution that’ll no longer break the bank.
From improving soft skills to providing an immersive, hands-on learning experience for employees, there are numerous ways for companies across sectors to leverage AR and VR technology.
Benefits of Using AR & VR for Corporate Training
When applied to the workplace, augmented reality can effectively boost the adoption and retention of crucial information for both new hires and seasoned employees. What’s more, devices like RealWear’s HMT-1 AR Headset have been shown to reduce training costs, increase employee engagement, decrease learning curves and improve overall safety.
In fact, compared to traditional training methods, IBM research found AR and VR technology can lower training time by 40% while also boosting worker performance by a staggering 70%. Even with an education or degree, many positions still have a high learning curve and require extensive, challenging job training.
Through the use of immersive learning technology, employers can overcome cognitive barriers by providing a simulated, hands-on learning experience. This provides trainees with the power to dive into the nitty-gritty and make mistakes without threatening their safety or causing costly damages to parts and machinery.
The interactive learning environment provided by AR allows employees to perform job-related tasks at their own pace in real-time. In other words, they are given the freedom to strengthen their on-the-job skills without the added pressure of performance metrics, customers or managers breathing down their necks.
Organizations that leverage AR and VR technology will also enjoy decreased training costs. Although the initial investment in immersive learning devices can be high, headsets can replace pricey in-person seminars and the equipment is reusable, ultimately maximizing ROI. Adoption of the technology eliminates the need for tangible resources, such as products or machinery, which are required in the traditional classroom setting.
According to Forbes, there are a number of additional benefits derived from AR-powered training, including that “AR can motivate trainees to learn more about the job activity and company because it’s a more imaginative and exciting experience.” In addition, it allows training to be accessed on-demand and helps “create less of a dependency on personnel, who can then perform their primary tasks more frequently.”
AR & VR Training Benefits by Industry
There’s a slew of industries already leveraging AR and VR technology to power their training initiatives. Here’s an inside look, broken down by sector.
Manufacturing
By using devices like Realwear’s HMT headsets, manufacturers not only have the ability to provide real-time remote technical support, but they can move trainees from theory to practice quickly and seamlessly. In IBM’s AR and VR in the Workplace report, one manufacturer who implemented AR devices saw a “90-percent increase in the number of trainees with little or no experience who could perform a complex, 50-step operation correctly the first time.”
The technology allows for step-by-step instructions to be delivered to field technicians while allowing trainees to receive real-time feedback as they put their new skills into practice. AR devices also open the doorway for collaboration in the workplace – regardless of location.
Healthcare
Patient safety is a crucial facet of care delivery. AR allows healthcare workers to gain hands-on experience using new technology or performing various procedures without putting a patient’s life at risk. This allows for faster and more accurate knowledge acquisition while at the same time reducing training costs, which has made AR an attractive solution in healthcare training programs.
Aerospace
Similar to manufacturing, the aerospace industry can use AR and VR to navigate complex instructions, as well as interact with simulated parts projected on top of real models. With the ability to create customized digital environments, trainees can be dropped into real-world situations from the safety and comfort of a training facility (or even their home).
Automotive and industrial-related industries are also seeing the same degree of benefits. AR and VR technology can completely transform the training world, delivering an immersive and engaging learning experience. When workers are given the opportunity to interpret data, interact with machinery and navigate different environments, it vastly improves their ability to acquire and retain information.
To learn more about how your organization can introduce AR technology to the workplace, contact our team today.
