Augmented Reality in Training – Should Organizations Adopt it?

Augmented Reality has gained popularity post the introduction of the Pokémon Go game but the technology was introduced much before. Technologies like AR and VR are buzzwords for the technology industry because of the versatility they offer. Organizations are starting to realize the potential of Augmented Reality technology when integrated with other information.

With the Augmented Reality technology, one can enhance reality by adding a layer of information superimposed over the actual image. This layer of the computer-generated image is only visible on the screen, after scanning through an AR-enabled device’s camera. To put it simply, users see a layer of digital information covering real-world images on their screens after scanning with their devices.

According to statistics, the augmented and virtual reality market is expected to reach the size of 209.2 billion U.S. dollars by the year 2022. Augmented reality in corporate training can offer value to employee training by making the content in the training programs appealing to the audience.

Effective training programs lead to a high performing workforce which strives towards achieving business objectives. Training programs delivered by the L&D, Training, Human Resources managers do not always deliver positive results. Training programs that are designed inefficiently can limit organizations from reaching their expected ROI.

• Lack of employee interest
• Failure to identify the specific needs of learners
• Training programs with no interactivity
• Poor return on investment (RoI)
• Poor engagement

Technology-assisted corporate training solutions are gaining popularity due to their ability to deliver personalized training material to employees digitally, resulting in an engaging training environment. Integrating Augmented Reality in training is a step every organization should take to ensure the training material delivered is contextually relevant. This method provides an engaging experience and boosts retention rates for further applications of concepts.

This blog explains the impact of using augmented reality in training by adding an additional layer of AR-enabled information over the standard training material. Augmented reality is capable of blurring the lines between digital information and physical reality. Superimposing virtual images over what employees actually see can prove as an effective method of delivering content.

Augmented reality in training can help organizations achieve a level of creativity and appeal for their training material which most organizations fail to achieve.

• Makes training material appealing and enjoyable
• Can provide the simulation of the actual operations
• Provides an engaging experience
• Maximum Device compatibility
• Makes training programs contextually relevant
• Better retention
• Reduces complexity

• Sales training
• Virtual simulation
• Gamification
• Assessment
• Remote training
• Providing instructions

Workforce operating remotely cannot be left behind for training. With technology-assisted training, all the modules can be digitally delivered to employees operating remotely.

Training managers are always in the search of training methods that are more engaging and require small investments. Taking augmented reality into consideration, training material can be enhanced with computer-generated visuals. The same modules can be transferred to multiple employees. The cost incurred is still less than fresh content creation. The benefits realized surpass the costs incurred.

One of the major advantages of augmented reality in training is its inherent flexibility or device compatibility. This enables the delivery and accessibility of training content on all smart devices via an application. This delivers a uniform experience on all devices.

Integrating augmented reality in training provides an engaging training experience. It aims at providing a practical and realistic simulation to trainees which results in better retention when compared to print training material.

Integrating augmented reality in training provides an immersive experience to learners by providing a virtual simulation of an actual environment. This prepares the trainees with responses to situations while working; which is retained better when compared to print material.

AR-enabled content is versatile and can be delivered to employees belonging to almost all functions and roles for any kind of training.

Advanced application of the AR technology has enabled tech companies to create AR glasses through which employees can communicate as well as see what an individual is able to view and can exchange instructions remotely.

AR is a promising proposition when considered for technology-enabled employee training programs. It can provide engaging training experiences for employees. By integrating augmented reality in training organizations can get significant ROI in terms of better productivity leading to business objectives.