VR training is not an entirely new concept. For several years now, we’ve seen companies incorporating virtual reality into their training solutions. However, we are now seeing the rapid adoption of this technology in almost every industry in the past couple of years.
Here, we go through some of the global brands implementing VR training. These use cases can help you identify how to utilize virtual reality technology to maximize efficiency in your workplace.
11 Global Enterprises Using VR Training
Walmart
In 2017, Walmart first used VR training in its Walmart Academy. In the following year, it rolled out VR headsets to its stores for training associates in customer service, the use of new technology, soft skills, compliance, and other aptitudes. Today, every Walmart supercenter and store implements VR training for associates.
Bank of America
Bank of America is the first financial services firm to launch VR training for employees. In 2021, it deployed VR simulations to train 50,000 teammates in over 4,000 financial centers. The simulations enabled them to practice routine tasks, handle difficult conversations, respond with empathy to clients, and learn complex processes.
MGM Resorts
Most companies in the hospitality industry have high employee churn rates as employees quit when they find out the jobs that they applied for were not as they expected them to be.
To reduce employee attrition, MGM Resorts offered job seekers an opportunity to try out the roles they are applying for through the use of VR headsets. This allowed them to experience actual work and see if they are truly a fit for the positions before they proceed with their application.
FedEx
FedEx began implementing VR training for employees in 2019. The new training solutions were deployed to lower attrition rates and minimize the number of new hires quitting due to the nature of their work. The VR training exposed trainees to the actual work in warehouses and the FedEx Ground. Aside from giving them a preview of what to expect, VR training also helped them identify safety risks and know how to handle challenges onsite.
Porsche
Porsche started offering virtual experiences to its consumers a couple of years ago. In 2018, it began to leverage VR technology to upskill employees in after-sales. It launched a VR training program for over 8,000 technicians working in Porsche service centers worldwide.
The program helped sales and marketing personnel become more familiar with the technical aspects of their vehicles so they could better service the after-sales client needs. It also helped technicians practice repairs, assembly, and disassembly without using actual prototypes.
Henkel
In 2018, Henkel began the use of VR for vehicle repair training. It offered the technology to both employees and customers allowing them to learn how to fix issues that happen in real life.
The VR training experience included quick fixes for simple issues to multi-step processes for complex ones. Today, Henkel has several other VR training applications including those for health and security in the workplace.
McDonald’s
In 2016, this fast food chain giant was one of the first companies to offer VR experiences to its consumers. By 2020, it started leveraging the technology to enhance its staff training. Its VR program has been deployed in more than 150 branches, training thousands of crew members in customer service, personal protective equipment, mobile ordering, and other skills.
Verizon
With the latest smartphones and other high-value tech products in-store, Verizon shops are prime targets for robberies. To help prepare their personnel for such scenarios, Verizon began using VR training in 2018. The training puts employees in realistic robbery and hostage situations to trigger real-life emotional and physical responses. It also guides them on what protocols to follow in such situations.
Boeing
Technology is a vital part in Boeing’s operational structure. Virtual reality and related technologies are integrated into most of their processes, especially in design, manufacturing, and assembly. The company also incorporates virtual reality for specialized skills training. Two years ago, it also began to use Varjo VR to train astronauts for future missions on the Starliner.
UPS
UPS elevated its driver training by utilizing virtual reality. Its VR training involves the use of VR headsets and 3D simulations that provide student drivers realistic driving experiences in various conditions. The students are trained on road safety, handling road hazards, and overcoming challenges while in transit.
Nestlé
Another staunch adopter of VR in training, Nestlé has been harnessing technology to improve experiences for both employees and customers. Recently, it launched a global employee training program powered by Immerse.
The VR training program is designed to offer interactive experiences for production line employees to better understand correct procedures, identify risks and hazards, and ensure safety in the workplace.
Aside from employee training, the new VR program also provides customers a unique interactive experience to help them understand the importance of the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality Programme.
Adoption of VR Training Across Industries
These are just a few of the many use cases of VR technology in training employees and workers. As the technology advances, we are likely to see even more companies following suit and adopting VR training solutions to make their workplaces more efficient.
