6 Key Benefits of Using Augmented Reality in Corporate Training

Introduction

Traditional training methods are under pressure to keep up with the demands of modern businesses as technology advances exponentially. AR integrates computer-generated information with the physical world. It has received considerable attention in recent times across various industries, and its application in corporate training is no exception.

With augmented reality, employees can receive training on any machine or equipment, transforming their immediate surroundings into a dynamic learning platform. Additionally, it provides opportunities for learners to enhance their skills and improve productivity and safety through various environments and scenarios. In this blog, we'll delve into the transformative power of AR in corporate training and explore its numerous benefits.

What is Augmented Reality (AR)?

Augmented Reality (AR) is an enhanced, interactive version of a real-world environment achieved through digital visual elements, sounds, and other sensory stimuli using technology. AR is a captivating and immersive technology that enriches our perception of the real world by seamlessly integrating computer-generated elements. Using software, apps, and hardware like AR Headsets, Data Glasses, and Smart Glasses, AR overlays digital content onto real-life environments and objects. This turns the user's immediate surroundings into an interactive learning environment, thereby providing an immersive user experience. The user can interact with objects or environment by moving around and sending commands to AR software through touchscreen, by voice, or with gestures.

Key Benefits of Using Augmented Reality in Corporate Training

Here are 6 key benefits of using augmented reality in corporate training.

Technical Skills Training

AR can provide hands-on simulated practice for technical tasks. For example, in the manufacturing industry, AR simulations can help technical staff learn about product assembly, equipment operation, and machinery maintenance. Employees can practice tasks in a virtual environment, gaining experience without physical equipment. This reduces production errors and accidents.

Product Training

AR can enhance product knowledge. Sales teams can use AR to showcase products in 3D, explaining features and benefits. AR helps in maintenance and repair by giving instructions on physical equipment and guiding technicians through repair processes. They can also engineer new models, perform diagnostic and maintenance activities, and improve efficiency.

Safety Training

AR can simulate emergency scenarios, preparing employees for crisis situations. Whether it's a fire drill, evacuation procedure, safety protocol, or medical emergency, AR-based training ensures that staff respond effectively when faced with real-life challenges. AR overlays potential hazards in a real environment, training employees to identify risks.

Soft Skills Development

AR can enhance communication, leadership, interpersonal skills, teamwork, and problem-solving. AR can simulate customer interactions, allowing employees to practice handling queries, complaints, and sales scenarios. AR scenarios can immerse leaders in challenging situations, helping them develop decision-making skills. Immersive scenarios allow employees to practice handling difficult situations, improving their interpersonal abilities.

Onboarding and Orientation

Effective onboarding is crucial for retaining new hires and boosting productivity. AR can streamline the onboarding process. AR can provide virtual tours to new hires to explore office spaces, facilities, and company culture. AR content can provide engaging introductions to company policies, procedures, and values. AR allows for interactive, hands-on learning, making the onboarding experience engaging and memorable.

Enhanced Learning Experiences

One of the key advantages of AR in corporate training is its ability to create immersive learning experiences. Unlike traditional training methods, which often rely on static presentations or passive learning materials, AR allows trainees to interact with virtual objects overlaid onto the real world. This hands-on approach not only enhances engagement but also improves knowledge retention by providing trainees with memorable, real-world experiences.

Use Cases

Many industries and sectors are already using AR for various business processes and employee training. Let's explore some industries and examples that demonstrate its effectiveness. These use cases highlight how AR transforms corporate training by making it more engaging, efficient, and practical.

Retail industry: AR assists store assistants by providing on-the-go training. Employees can learn about product details, prices, and stock availability by simply pointing their devices at items. AR can help customers check products or learn how to use them in their environments. For example, Ikea uses an AR app, which allows customers to visualize how furniture would look in their homes before making a purchase.

Food industry: Trainees can wear AR glasses that overlay step-by-step instructions on real-world tasks. This approach enhances learning retention and ensures consistent food preparation across the outlets. For example, KFC implemented an AR training program for cooking staff.

Automobile industry: AR training allows technicians to learn about car components without using real ones. They can then perform diagnostic and maintenance activities, improving their confidence and reducing mistakes. For example, Ford employs AR in its accelerated credential program for dealership technicians.

Electronics industry: AR applications can be used in three specific areas: maintenance speed and accuracy, improving the safety of both service engineers and customers, and customized training for new technicians. For example, Schneider uses an AR app for technicians. This app would allow field technicians to see inside a device before they open it using AR.

Healthcare industry: AR helps medical professionals practice procedures and surgeries in a risk-free environment. Junior doctors can visualize patient anatomy and practice complex surgeries using AR simulations. For example, AccuVein uses AR technology to make both nurses’ and patients’ lives easier. 40% of intravenous (IV) injections miss the vein on the first stick. Nurses use an AR handheld scanner on the skin that shows where veins are in the patient’s body.

Aviation industry: Airlines use AR to train pilots and cabin crew. Simulated scenarios include emergency evacuations, cockpit procedures, and passenger interactions. For example, Japan Air has launched new virtual training program to train pilots using AR and 3D simulation of cockpit.

Conclusion

The integration of AR in corporate training represents a paradigm shift in learning and development (L&D) strategies. By enhancing engagement and facilitating real-world application, AR empowers organizations to unlock the full potential of their workforce. As technology continues to advance, companies that embrace AR stand to gain a competitive edge in developing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce capable of meeting the demands of tomorrow's business landscape.

At Tesseract Learning, we’ll discuss your challenges and work with your team to understand your business needs, learner expectations, and technology environments. If you wish to know how our eLearning services, KREDO LMS/LXP, and Prodient.io new-age authoring tool can help your organization in developing immersive learning solutions for your organization, contact us or write to us at <suresh@tesseractlearning.com>