The Pros & Cons of Using VR in Corporate Training

Virtual reality or VR is a computer-generated technology that creates a digital environment where the users can interact with virtual objects using their own hands and feet. They need to use a VR set that will transport them to the virtual world. VR has proven to be a successful tool for corporate education – new hire training, onboarding, product training, and more. Goldman Sachs predicts the education VR market to be worth $0.7 billion by 2025.

VR is not a new concept. It has been used by the military since 1950. In the last few years technology has become readily available, so more sectors have shown interest in using the platform. Corporations have also realized that VR can drive behavioral changes far better than other modes of learning.

At first glance, VR may seem to be the best training format for your training needs. But, before you make a substantial investment, consider the advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

VR is cost effective in the long-term. There may be an initial investment required but the more people use it, the faster you can write off the cost. These simulations are available online, so your learners can access them anytime they want, irrespective of time zones and geography. They need not travel to a physical venue for training. Imagine the money you can save on travel and accommodations. You don’t need to hire instructors for classroom training because the simulations are self-guided.
VR training is particularly helpful for hazardous industries. It provides a platform where the employees of such industries can practice and learn without fearing any collateral damage. The more mistakes they make, the better they learn. At the end of the session, they are far more confident about their tasks and can avoid making mistakes at work.
Your learners can take a virtual facility tour through VR. For example, you can use it for onboarding training. The new employees need not go to a factory or shop floor to explore. They can visit it from their own office without taking time to travel or interrupting the workflow of employees in the other location.
With VR, you can simulate the real environment and simplify complex topics for the learners. The format is highly engaging and keeps the learners hooked to the learning. When your employees are invested in a course, they will learn faster and remember better. They can apply the knowledge and skills they practiced in VR simulations when the face similar issues in the actual workplace.

Cons:

VR can cause physical side effects for learners.Users have complained about headaches, blurred vision, and nausea. It is advised that users take a break at regular intervals while using it.
The risk-free aspect of the platform has cons too. Extensive use of VR can cause users to have fewer inhibitions in real life too. That may have negative social implications.
This is a developing technology. So, there are still flaws that need to be corrected. The user experience may not be seamless.
Even though the cost is justified in the long-run, many organizations may not have the resources for the initial investment.

Before making a decision, weigh the pros and cons of the tool. You may find that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. Although, keep in mind that if you provide a jaw-dropping VR experience for your corporate training, your learners may expect all of your training programs to be equally engaging!

At Designing Digitally, Inc. our team of instructional designers can take your ideas and training goals to the virtual realm. We combine our game development prowess with sound instructional methodologies to create training experiences that foster performance management.

To learn more about virtual reality and how your company’s training could benefit, live chat or book a free consultation with our team today!