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New Trend: Growing use of Extended Reality for Employee Training
Implementing an Extended Reality (XR) technology, like an Augmented Reality or Virtual Reality solution for training purposes is gaining traction. Providing a contactless training opportunity has new momentum stemming from the pandemic. Companies are adopting new strategies to help their employees be successful by providing them with XR tools. Travel restrictions and large group meetings may not be an acceptable option, therefore providing a digital solution has become increasingly important.
Another push is coming from a new generation of employees that grew up playing on a Playstation or other gaming console platform. According to Forbes “There were an estimated 58.9 million VR users and 93.3 million AR users in the U.S. in 2021, so it’s clear that immersive solutions are popular.” New employees usually have some knowledge and interest to use these tools, yielding faster adoption. Training sessions can be more engaging and fun by gamifying them. Employers can get a step ahead in the tough job market by hiring good talent and training quickly & efficiently.
Understanding the types of technologies available today are helpful to drive decisions on implementations. There are 4 types technologies that are explained by Ultraleap:
“Virtual reality (VR) is a 3D, entirely digital environment. With a VR headset the user is completely immersed in a virtual world. VR headsets are currently the most widely available and affordable option.
Augmented reality (AR) puts the user in the real world, but overlays digital elements onto it. Most people are familiar with AR on mobile phones, but specialized AR headsets can be very effective for immersive learning.
Mixed reality (MR) blends fully virtual, augmented, and real world elements. This is achieved via video “pass-through” technology, which uses cameras to digitize the world in real time, and combines that data with virtual content.
Extended reality (XR) is simply the umbrella term to describe all of the above. Extended reality is also closely related to the concept of the metaverse – the idea of a world where immersive digital content is pervasive.”
New Insight: XR Training Solutions are Available Now
The benefit of AR / VR training provides a faster learning environment and longer retention at a relatively low cost. This immersive experience allows users to interact with a piece of equipment or scenario with little risk. Imagine training for brain surgery, emergency response procedures, or hostile customer interactions. Those types of situations could be disastrous if not handled properly and difficult to train individuals without real experiences.
These are some of the key developers operating in the global AR and VR in training market, reported by The Digital Journal. “Companies operating in the global AR and VR in training market are increasingly investing in research & development activities to provide AR and VR in training solutions. The global AR and VR in training market is highly fragmented, with the presence of a large number of manufacturers in developed and developing countries. Key players operating in the global AR and VR in training market include:
Yeppar
RE’FLEKT GmbH
InfiVR
VIRNECT CO., LTD.
Hurix
Accenture plc
Microsoft Corporation
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Sony
Alphabet (Google, Inc.)
Magic Leap, Inc.
Wikitude GmbH
New Action: Defining the ROI and Metrics of Success for XR Training
To deploy XR training, there are several considerations.
Select the use case that is most appropriate for employees and the most valuable to the business operation.
Begin to scope the needs of the actual hardware and technology.
Begin scoping the content for your specific business and training modules. Then determine if this content or something similar is already in the marketplace, so you can almost plug and play to get started faster.
Track the progress of each employee and gain important feedback on their experiences in another area to review.
Evaluate the ROI of the training tool on a regular basis to iterate and determine changes and modifications
Are you ready to explore this new Extended Reality technology? We can help you evaluate the market and determine the best next steps. If you are interested in learning more about how VR, AR, MR or XR technologies can help your company, , N³ Innovation can help you! Contact us today!
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