Virtual Reality: The New Workforce Training Solution

Training is a big part of company efficiency and development. Properly trained workers are needed to follow industry standards and company policies in order to meet company goals and objectives. The importance in training is reflected by how much many companies across the world, and specifically the U.S, spend on training. Some allocate an average of 11% of their budget to employee training, spending on average US$1,071 on training per employee for the entire year. But, Virtual Reality can be a workforce training solution.

Companies know that spending on adequate training for their employees can pay off in the long run. The more trained and experienced employees are, the less companies may need to spend on incidental costs. The more companies can allocate more of their budget to the overall  profitability and efficiency of their company.

Why Virtual Reality Training

There are a lot of training tools available for companies to employ. Companies use a variety of delivery methods in a variety of combinations, it really depends on the company’s needs. Virtual Reality is one of those delivery methods. Though it may not have been a popular training delivery method a few years ago, more and more companies are using virtual reality to train their employees. So much that 23% of large companies use Virtual Reality for workforce training. Companies are now using VR to train their employees with simulations of tasks they may be doing in real life on the job.

Also read: Virtual Reality, Job Training, and Limitless Possibilities

4 Benefits of VR Training

1. Improve workplace efficiency 

VR offers employees a more rounded experience of training. Employees can be put in simulations close to their daily tasks which gives them more experience in real life situations. Employees can learn to practice daily company protocols and policies and they can also learn how to handle themselves when something goes wrong. So, employees trained this way will be much more prepared to complete their daily tasks and any problems that may come along. Creating a much more effective and efficient workspace, where employees have a good understanding of what they need to do and how they need to do it. 

2. The ability to mess up

VR provides a safe space and environment for mistakes. New workers can make mistakes, Just like people, employees can make mistakes, but experiencing it in a virtual environment prevents them from making the same mistakes when the real work starts and mistakes are better made in a controlled environment. Before those same mistakes get expensive in the real world. . VR allows them to make the mistake, see how they got there, remedy the mistake and know how to avoid making it again. 

3. Reduced Incidentals 

2.3 Million people succumb to work-related accidents and diseases every year. Just 2020 had companies spending over US$52 Billion in costs related to workplace related incidents. Lack of proper training can lead to a lot of mistakes and hiccups during production. Mistakes and hiccups that can show to be very costly to the company. Even though VR equipment may be costly initially, using it to ensure employees are prepared to carry out daily duties will save the company money in the long run. Less money can be spent on correcting mistakes and covering lost time when employees are properly trained and exposed to the reality of the environment they will be working in. 

4. Improves Customer Experience

Virtual Reality offers a way for new employees to learn the ins and outs of the customer service policies and practices of the company. Plus gives existing employees an option of brushing up on what they already know; keep them on their toes. Which is very important when operating in a competitive market. The customer’s experience is what keeps the light on, any bad experiences can harm the brand’s identity and reputation.

Technology has presented us with many new tools to take advantage of to overcome traditional barriers and get the best out of business; it is important to make the most of these tools.