Industrial Training: The Impact of Virtual Reality

The pace of industrial growth is unimaginable, and industries are adopting the latest technologies to make them stand out from others and bring in profit. For the success of any industry, the first factor will be its workers. To achieve this, industries need to provide effective training for their workers, along with other allowances. Workplace training has undergone a major transformation in the last ten years.

Thousands of companies worldwide are revamping their digital strategy for staff training, abandoning paper manuals and classroom lectures in favor of Virtual Reality (VR) training and simulations. Introduction of VR can transform the workforce for the demands of modern industries. Virtual Reality technology offers an unparalleled training experience characterized by immersive simulations, making it a potent tool for diverse workforce training, such as forklift training, aviation training, and more. Through realistic, controlled environments, its high-fidelity simulations contribute to the enhancement of skills, safety, and operational proficiency.

Employees are given the opportunity to get on-the-job training in risk-free environments and situations, which can result in high learning retention and, ultimately, improved productivity. According to the PwC 2022 US Metaverse Survey, 51% of businesses have already incorporated virtual reality into at least one specific line of business or are in the process of doing so. One of the largest metaverse benefits, according to 34% of respondents, is “a more efficient way to develop and train our people.”

The Conventional Approach to Industrial Training 

In a conventional manner, industrial training is more focused on classroom training sessions, manuals, and on-the-job training. Even though trainers can train, they still have to face some sort of challenge. The manuals and on-the-job training occasionally led to gaps in understanding complex processes, and the classroom training often struggled to provide a truly immersive learning experience. During the traditional method, trainees faced challenges in simulating real-world situations, hindering their ability to develop practical skills efficiently.   Physical space limitations and the possible hazards of on-the-job training posed challenges to creating a secure and regulated learning environment.

While some traditional methods are effective, they often lack dynamic, hands-on training for modern industrial needs. As industries evolve, we must shift to a new technology that can bring our industry to the next level. So, industries are increasingly adopting Virtual Reality (VR) training as an advanced and transformative solution to address these challenges.

VR in Training and Development

Virtual reality training uses VR headsets and motion controllers to introduce lifelike simulations that help staff learn new skills and hone existing ones. Learners can perform tasks and scenarios in the virtual world that range from technical skill exercises—like learning how to handle machinery—to soft skill exercises—like managing a heated customer conversation.  VR has been touted by many as the next great training frontier, so forward-looking L&D leaders should be aware of the advantages, disadvantages, and different ways this technology can be used.

After the integration of Virtual Reality into industrial training, the industries reduced their time competency and were able to effectively transfer industrial knowledge and situational awareness to the trainees. Virtual reality offers cost-effective training solutions, enabling industries to flexibly train their workforce. All that’s required to begin training is a high-spec computer with a graphics card and a VR headset. Depending on the training needs, additional hardware like a steering wheel, pedals, and gear can be added, making it adaptable for various industries, such as driver training. 

Virtual Reality technology has enhanced multiple facets of industrial training, addressing the below key areas.

1. Interactive Training

Interactive learning spearheads a revolutionary approach, fundamentally transforming the traditional methods of knowledge acquisition. This dynamic methodology expedites trainee adoption by fostering fast assimilation of concepts. It transcends passive learning, igniting profound engagement and participation, thereby deepening comprehension and honing practical skills. 

By prioritizing real-time interactions, this method not only elevates knowledge but also cultivates a highly motivated workforce. Its strategic application ensures that workers or trainees are not just equipped but proficient, ready to seamlessly apply their skills in real-world scenarios, thereby enhancing overall productivity and output.

According to the studies, it shows that with VR training, people retain 75% of what they learn, compared to just 10% with traditional methods. The immersive nature of VR helps employees remember and apply what they’ve learned more effectively.

2. Risk-Free Environment

Virtual reality  pioneers training in various hazardous situations within a secure, risk-free environment. Trainees actively participate in simulations replicating potential industry risks. This immersive training equips them to face challenges confidently, instilling the ability to take necessary actions when confronted with real-world scenarios. 

Emphasizing safety, this methodology ensures a resilient and well-prepared workforce. VR’s risk-free simulations not only prioritize safety protocols but also empower trainees to proactively address challenges, fostering a culture of preparedness within the industry.

3. Cost Effective Training

The manual training process proves costly, demanding industries to invest in physical training items. Conversely, Virtual reality training emerges as a cost-effective alternative, especially for larger workforces. This technology eradicates the need for extensive physical resources, offering adaptable training solutions. Remarkably scalable, it maintains the quality of the learning experience. 

VR presents a strategic and economical approach for industries aiming for large-scale, comprehensive, and efficient training solutions, providing a clear advantage over traditional manual methods.

4. Immersive Training Environment

Virtual reality delivers a lifelike and immersive training environment akin to real-life experiences. It seamlessly replicates authentic work situations, accelerating trainees’ adaptation to various work scenarios. This immersive methodology goes beyond traditional learning, cultivating a workforce with enhanced understanding and confidence. 

Equipped with practical skills honed in a virtual setting, employees are well-prepared to confidently navigate real-world challenges. VR’s ability to mirror diverse environments creates an effective training paradigm, fostering quicker adaptability and contributing to the development of a highly skilled and confident workforce ready for the demands of their professional roles.

5. Easy Customization

Virtual reality technology stands out for its exceptional scalability and customization, allowing training programs to adapt to different levels and stages. In a manufacturing company, for instance, workers may require training for both manufacturing processes and basic emergencies. VR facilitates the easy creation of new scenarios or training methods, tailored to the company’s preferences. 

This flexibility ensures that training remains dynamic, relevant, and aligned with specific organizational needs. The scalable and customizable nature of VR technology empowers companies to efficiently meet the diverse training requirements of their workforce, enhancing overall effectiveness and adaptability.

Advantages of VR Training

• Immersive content to engage the trainee

One of the main challenges faced by L&D professionals is employee engagement. This can be solved using VR which involves the senses and immerses students in an exact simulation of the workplace to improve training productivity. In comparison to conventional approaches, VR training increased learning efficacy by 76%, according to research from Stanford University and Technical University in Denmark.

• Faster training

What takes two hours to learn in a classroom might take 30 minutes to learn with VR. PwC’s US Metaverse Survey estimates that VR learners may still complete training three times faster than classroom learners, even after they review, wear, and learn how to use their VR headsets for the first time.

• VR learners are more confident

VR-based training boosts confidence levels and improves the ability to execute the lessons learned on the job because it allows for practice in an immersive, low-stress setting. Based on PWC studies, learners who received VR training were up to 275% more confident in their ability to put what they had learned into practice.

• Better data for insightful learner analytics

L&D teams have more real-time access to learner data thanks to VR training technologies. The system facilitates the evaluation of subject mastery and provides the information needed to improve training interventions continuously.

• VR learning can be more cost-effective

Until recently, VR was too costly, complex, and challenging to deploy outside of small groups. Despite its higher initial investment, VR training will save you money and resources in the long run, making it a cost-effective training option. Also, the cost of training more employees will be lower in terms of employee time lost during training and the cost of course facilitation and other expenses.

Industrial VR Training at TA

At TA, we are dedicated to propelling industrial training forward with state-of-the-art solutions. Our accomplished VR team has successfully crafted a targeted industrial training application, specifically designed for forklift training, to meet the unique needs of our clients. Recognizing the necessity for effective training technology, 

TA has seamlessly combined VR and web applications to create a powerful tool. This innovative solution empowers learners to undergo thorough forklift driving training in diverse and realistic virtual environments. By prioritizing real-world scenarios, our application ensures that trainees can refine their skills in an immersive setting, adequately preparing them for the challenges they may encounter on the job.

This application has been meticulously designed to align with the forklift driver training standards set by the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Upon successful completion of the training session, learners are well-equipped to operate a forklift in any challenging scenario. The accompanying web application streamlines user management and other administrative tasks. Utilizing a steering wheel and controllers as additional hardware, the training application provides a lifelike experience, immersing learners in a simulation that closely replicates the sensation of operating a real forklift.

TA has designed two distinct VR applications to cater to the preferences of our clients. The first application offers an ultra-realistic environmental experience, demanding a high-spec PC and HTC Vive Pro. This immersive application features diverse training modules, providing learners with different levels of challenges. On the other hand, the second application is crafted for collaborative learning, allowing multiple users to enter the virtual environment simultaneously. Even trainers can conduct classes within this environment. This application is optimized for Oculus Quest Pro and Oculus Quest 2, eliminating the need for a PC, and thereby enhancing accessibility and ease of use.

Features and Benefits:

The entire training process takes place in a VR environment, guaranteeing safety for both the learners and the equipment by providing a controlled, risk-free setting. Learners achieve equipment readiness before engaging with the actual machinery, allowing for a seamless transition from virtual training to real-world forklift operations. This enhances user confidence and minimizes the risk of incidents during practical applications. All menu options are directly accessible through the VR headsets, streamlining the training session for enhanced user convenience.

The Future of VR in Industrial Training

The future of virtual reality training offers a wide range of scope in industries and provides an era of unprecedented innovation and efficiency. The integration of VR is becoming not just a trend but a strategic imperative. It has the ability to simulate complex industrial scenarios to train its workforce. This immersive approach not only improves knowledge retention but also fosters a more hands-on, practical understanding of critical processes.  

Furthermore, the future holds promise for increasingly sophisticated VR applications, incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning to personalize training experiences further. Using VR modules can dynamically adjust content based on individual learner progress, optimizing efficiency and engagement. According to Statista, VR industrial training is growing at a fast pace. During 2022, the global VR market-sized projects increased from less than 12 billion USD and by end of the 2025 it will cover 22 billion USD. The future of Virtual Reality in industrial training is a workforce that is not just highly skilled but also flexible and ready to handle new challenges.

TA is a leading company in Virtual Reality (VR) technology, demonstrating our proven expertise in integrating VR into industrial training programs. Our track record highlights successful implementations, showcasing our commitment to staying at the forefront of VR advancements. Trust TA for cutting-edge solutions and expertise to meet your industrial training needs.

Conclusion: 

Virtual reality emerges not just as a technology; it’s a game-changer in how we set up our workforce. The immersive way of learning offered by VR has proven to upgrade skills and operational efficiency. With a proven history record at TA, we invite you to welcome this paradigm shift in training methodologies. The future lies in the dynamic, adaptive, and scalable realm of virtual reality, an era in which workers are not proficient but prepared to tackle any kind of challenge in tomorrow’s industries. Choose the transformational power of Virtual Reality with TA.

Virtual reality is clearly here to stay as the market is set to reach over 12 billion US dollars by 2024 and the technology is predicted to become widely used over the next three to four years. Since L&D leaders wish to prepare their organizations for the future, it is time to explore VR training options. Contact Travancore Analytics if you want to develop a virtual reality training program or learn how it might benefit your company.