Exploring The Possibilities of Extended Reality (XR)
Extended Reality (XR) technologies blur the lines between virtual and real-world environments, creating a world where users can interact with computer-generated elements in real-time. For those new to the subject, Extended Reality (XR) is a collective term for Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR).
What’s the difference?
Virtual Reality (VR) is the most established form of XR and uses a VR headset and optional hand controllers. With visuals and sound, users fully immerse themselves in a digital world. Examples include VR vehicle or flight simulations and military training
Augmented Reality (AR) is the most commonly used form of XR as it can be easily used with a smartphone, PC or tablet. AR inserts digital content on top of the real world, rather than creating a new one. Think Snapchat filters and the popular game of Pokémon Go!
Mixed Reality (MR), the newest and most experimental form of XR, is one of the biggest trends right now in mobile applications. MR takes elements of both VR and AR to create interactive experiences by anchoring digital objects within a real-world environment. Examples include virtual trips to explore far-away places and the use of collaborative learning applications for peers to learn together in shared virtual spaces
One of the most exciting use cases today is the use of XR in the automotive industry.
Imagine collaborating, designing and creating a new vehicle or product with colleagues on the other side of the world in half the time, compared to traditional methods. Or being able to digitally test a new autonomous vehicle in different driving conditions and identify potential design flaws before producing physical prototypes.
Now also imagine a world where customers can experiment with vehicle features whilst virtually driving the vehicle and experience hands-free driving on a virtual motorway. Or drive into a car park with the cost of parking and the number of available spaces displayed on the windscreen, all from the comfort of their own home.
The possibilities of XR adoption in automotive are great but is it really useful for all types of training?
The Learning and Development (L&D) Perspective
XR technology is revolutionising the way we think about Learning and Development (L&D) as a whole. Our average attention span is less than eight seconds so training needs to be interactive, immersive, efficient and accurate.
The ‘experiment without failure approach’ that XR offers, provides the opportunity to learn without real-world consequences whilst improving learning outcomes and increasing engagement. Simulations, practice scenarios, and interaction with other learners promotes experiential learning, which is perhaps the most effective method for learning new skills or practising existing ones. XR not only allows for comprehensive knowledge capture, global sharing capability and learning material archiving, it can also overcome distance and save on associated travel costs for bringing in experts.
Bringing in for example, expert technicians to train employees can be very costly. Using XR, technician trainees can learn in the moment and be shown how to, for example, replace a part or be shown which bolt to remove by overlaying animations on an actual engine.
Enhanced Levels of Customer Experiences
XR has the potential to transform the customer experience and increase engagement levels. Let’s take, for example, customers who are unable to visit the dealership due to distance or physical limitations. Providing virtual showrooms and vehicle tours allows an almost real experience. The customer can view available models, exterior colours, interior features, browse accessories and fully configure their dream vehicle in a virtual landscape. All from a location that suits them.
Virtual test drives and tours are highly effective as they positively affect emotions. Customers have the opportunity to fully engage in the buying process from the convenience of their own home, enabling them to make a well-considered decision.
So, what are the restrictions and downfalls of XR?
We need to remember that XR is still in its infancy and has many restrictions. Yes, XR gives the learner a fully immersive experience, distancing themselves from daily routines but is it the right option to choose?
To determine if XR is the right choice for your employees and organisation, consider the following:
Using head mounted devices can cause some people to experience headaches, eye strain, confusion and motion sickness. Would trainees feel comfortable wearing VR headsets and not knowing what is going on around them? Headsets can pose a health risk for users, for example stumbling over real-world objects
Do you have employees who, for example, are blind or visually impaired? These individuals may face navigating virtual environments difficult without having the ability to feel the surfaces and objects within them. Think of any physical limitations your employees may have
Developing XR training is expensive. It requires expensive hardware and software alongside developers. It may also not do what you need it to do. Have you checked if XR capabilities can match your needs?
Would a different resource, for example a video or eLearning course transfer the knowledge needed at a lower cost and reduce development time? Considering the fast-moving nature of product updates and changes, training may need to be changed and delivered in a faster, more flexible way than XR allows. Be mindful that adapting training in the moment is restricted by the software
Are you looking to convey a small amount of information? XR may be a good choice. However, if more detailed knowledge is to be transferred, XR is not yet established for this purpose
Learner information and performance is captured during XR training, raising ethical concerns. VR providers cannot typically ensure data security
XR has much to offer to complement and enrich employee training. Immersive technologies can make employee training fun, efficient and effective. However, it’s important to consider what the technology can actually do and today’s restrictions. When evaluating the feasibility of introducing XR, ensure all less favourable factors are analysed.