Ever feel the frustration of traditional training sessions dragging on forever?
You’re not alone.
I get it. As a shared services professional with over 20 years of experience in outsourcing and offshoring, I’ve sat through my fair share of dull training sessions.
But let me tell you something: Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are changing that game.
Imagine stepping into a virtual world tailored to your job, equipped with hands-on scenarios that genuinely help you learn. Sounds intriguing, right? That’s the magic of VR and AR in training.
Why VR and AR are Game Changers in Shared Services Training
First off, let’s talk engagement.
Traditional training often feels like a chore. Sitting in a room, staring at slides, listening to a monotone voice—yawn, right?
Now think about being immersed in a 360-degree environment where you can practice your skills in a risk-free setting. This is not just a luxury; it’s rapidly becoming a necessity in shared services.
Here’s how these technologies change the scenario:
- Enhanced Learning Experiences: The interactive nature of VR allows employees to learn by doing, which leads to better retention of information.
- Realistic Simulations: AR can overlay information on the real world, which means you get real-time guidance on processes as you perform them.
- Catering to Different Learning Styles: Whether you’re a visual learner or someone who thrives on hands-on practice, VR and AR can adapt to your style.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment might seem high, think about the savings in travel and training time over the long haul.
Bringing the Shared Services Scenarios to Life
Let’s break it down even more. Picture a day in the life of a new associate at a shared services center.
Instead of flipping through a manual, they put on a VR headset and are thrown into a hyper-realistic simulation of their job.
They navigate through various operational tasks while encountering real-world scenarios.
Need to process a financial transaction? They get to practice in a safe space and make mistakes without risking real money.
Got a tricky customer service situation? They can role-play it out with virtual customers reacting just like the real ones would.
This kind of hands-on experience helps associates feel confident when they step into the actual office for the first time.
Bridging the Skill Gap with Advanced Technologies
Training typically involves extensive skill acquisition, and in shared services, that’s crucial.
As many industries witness rapid changes brought on by technology, so do the skills that employees need to succeed.
VR and AR can bridge this skill gap effectively.
For those who work with operational or financial systems, think of how many processes require precise execution.
These technologies allow process experts to create modular training that can be adjusted as processes change without the need for full retraining sessions.
A Personal Experience with VR Training
Let me share a little story. I once had the chance to participate in a VR training session aimed at improving process optimization within shared services.
We were tasked with solving a financial compliance issue that simulated real-world conditions.
With VR, I could visualize the entire process and get immediate feedback on my decisions. The experience was not just memorable but downright empowering. I walked away feeling ready to tackle similar situations in my actual work.
This isn’t just about technology for the sake of technology; it’s about producing skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of shared services effectively.
How to Get Started with VR and AR Training
If you’re thinking this sounds great but wondering how to bring it into your organization, start small.
Here are some practical steps to implement VR and AR training:
- Identify Key Areas: Look for complex processes that could benefit from hands-on simulations.
- Choose the Right Technology: Decide whether VR, AR, or a mix of both suits your needs.
- Engage Stakeholders: Get buy-in from leadership and your team; they need to see the value.
- Pilot Programs: Test with a small group before rolling out organization-wide.
- Gather Feedback: Always be collecting feedback to improve the experience.
Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning
This transition isn’t just about technology. It’s also about shifting mindsets.
Encouraging a culture of learning means equipping your teams to continuously improve.
VR and AR foster an environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures.
Embrace this mindset to keep your shared services transformation on track.
For more insights about enhancing shared services transformations and better operational efficiencies, head over to THEGBSEDGE.
Conclusion: The Future of Training in Shared Services
As I reflect on my journey in shared services, the promise of VR and AR excites me. Transforming training is no longer a distant dream; it’s happening right now.
If you’re in a role that requires continuous learning and adaptation, it’s time to embrace these technologies. They’re not just revolutionizing the way we train—they’re enhancing the way we work.
Don’t wait for change to come knocking; be the force of change in your organization. Check out more articles on transformations in shared services at THEGBSEDGE.
