XR Training Becoming a Reality

Industrial companies are increasingly leveraging virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies to enhance employee training. New software and hardware—like the Apple Vision Pro—are helping enterprises train new employees, upskill existing employees, provide remote assistance, and more.

Immersive technologies are being used for training in many ways:

From colliers

Equipment familiarization: Employees can explore virtual replicas of industrial equipment, examine their components, and understand their functions. This allows workers to gain valuable experience and knowledge before interacting with the actual machinery, reducing the learning curve and minimizing the potential for accidents.

Safety training: Workers can experience realistic simulations of hazardous situations and learn how to respond effectively. This helps improve their safety awareness, decision-making abilities, and reduces the risks associated with on-the-job accidents.

Soft skills development: VR/AR can be utilized to enhance soft skills training, such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and customer service. Employees can participate in interactive virtual scenarios that simulate real-world interactions and challenges. They can practice communication techniques, conflict resolution, and customer interactions in a controlled environment, allowing them to develop and refine their skills.

Continuous learning and upskilling: Ongoing training opportunities allow employees to update their knowledge and skills. Companies can create virtual training modules and scenarios that can be accessed remotely, enabling employees to learn at their own pace and convenience. This helps in upskilling the workforce, improving performance, and adapting to changing industry demands.

Immersive simulations: VR and AR offer realistic, immersive simulations that replicate industrial environments and processes. Employees can practice tasks, procedures, and equipment operation in a safe and controlled virtual setting.

New partnerships continue to be announced each day. Porsche is working with Microsoft to “revolutionize skilling, training, and customer experiences.” Using the HoloLens 2 and Dynamics 365 Guides, Porsche is using digital transformation to enhance the efficiency and consistency of its automotive services in the US.

LMS365 and SynergyXR have partnered up to bring learning management and immersive technology together for learners at enterprises. In a press release, the companies said, “Learners can interact and engage with training courses in an absorptive virtual environment, which has been shown to improve training speed, learning confidence, and emotional connection to content.”

Vehicles for Change is using immersive technology to train mechanics, which are currently in high demand and short supply. “It’s going to expedite the process of getting folks entry level, ready to come into the garages,” said Geoff Crawford, vice president of virtual reality at Vehicles for Change.

Virtual and augmented reality offer industrial companies powerful tools for immersive, interactive, and efficient training experiences. These technologies enhance employee engagement, knowledge retention, and overall effectiveness, ultimately leading to improved operational efficiency and safety