Seeing Is Believing: Virtual Reality Training Is Good for Employees and Good for Business

New hires at Kentucky Fried Chicken are getting to meet Colonel Sanders – sort of – while learning how to cook, and new drivers at UPS are navigating hazardous roadways without smashing up their big brown trucks. That’s because these companies are among a growing list of high-profile brands and industries embracing virtual reality to make training programs more engaging, effective and consistent.

The ability to instruct employees in a virtual world, without the real-world risks of deep fryers and oncoming traffic, makes VR ideal for training in a wide variety of professions. Police departments are using VR to train officers in realistic active-shooter situations without putting anyone at risk, and medical students are learning surgical procedures without endangering patients due to their inexperience.

VR for Retailers and Distributors

Earlier this year, Pregis announced new, innovative VR training for protective packaging equipment and materials. To help retailers and distribution centers incorporate VR into their training programs, Pregis created a series of two-minute tutorials. The 360-degree VR videos teach trainees how to use packaging materials efficiently, showing them rather than telling them, so more of the information is retained.

“Several research studies have shown that information absorption is significantly enhanced – as much as threefold – when virtual reality headsets are used.” – Clint Smith, Product Manager, Pregis

The training also ensures employees are taught the same way regardless of geographic location or supervisor. It limits the time that highly skilled employees spend training new hires, thereby maintaining productivity goals. And for companies wanting a customized training regimen, VR videos can be customized for individual businesses.

Efficient and Economic Training

Several of Pregis’ VR tutorials show employees how to maintain and service the company’s packaging equipment. This type of technical instruction is one of the most common industrial applications of VR as retailers and manufacturers are increasingly using VR to save time and money in facilities maintenance.

VR is also helping new hires and seasonal employees in high-turnover positions get up to speed quickly. The technology is being used to teach new packers how to properly use and apply packaging materials to create optimal protection. The result is a better, more consistent level of customer service that enhances a brand’s reputation among customers while controlling costs.

To explore Pregis’ VR training program, visit www.pregis.com/knowledge-hub/pregis-develops-virtual-reality-training-program--to-improve-consistency-efficiency-of-protective-packaging.