The way company’s train their employees has a significant impact on organization productivity and performance. Effective training gives employees a better understanding of their responsibilities and a deeper knowledge of the skills to succeed in their roles. There is a long list of the different kind of training methods companies use. This is a three-part blog series where we cover the main training methods, we are currently developing for clients using Microsoft’s Mixed Reality headset the HoloLens and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Guides to improve on-the-job performance.

Skills Transfer

The first type of training you can implement with the HoloLens and Guides is skills transfer. In this scenario trainees are hands on and learn by doing. Unlike traditional trainings like a video walkthrough or a class lecture, Guides brings lessons to life. The skills they develop are transferred on-the-job. For example, trainees will walk through how to disassemble a diesel fuel pump and put it back together. Not only is skills transfer more effective compared to traditional trainings, but this method of training also improves efficiency. We cut the training time down to a fraction of what it normally would have been. This is because Guides is self-pace and individuals do not have to wait on others who are slow learners and can move on to the next lesson.

Discovery Learning

The next type of training we utilize is discovery learning. This method is what it sounds like as users explore a piece of machinery or factory line they discover and simultaneously learn about different parts and concepts. At CraneMorley we take this method to the next level by incorporating digital twins (which is another training method stay tune to learn more). Digital twins allow us to develop Guides where we disassemble a holographic car (as an example) instantly and walkthrough the different layers such as frame, engine, and brake system.  We like to describe this as an x-ray view and isolate the engine component. Each main component will include hot spots where user discover and learn more about specific components.

Simulation

Simulation is the third and last type of training method we will cover in part 1 of our blog series. As the name suggests, simulation mirrors real-life situations and creates a real life like learning experience. This type of training is also a great way for companies to assess how trainees will perform on the front line.

The most popular industry we see simulation is in the healthcare industry. Different applications include patient assessment, procedural skills, patient care interventions, medical procedures, and how to operate equipment. Guides enables what we like to call knowledge checks utilizing Guides branching feature. As trainee’s walkthrough a simulation they will come across tests to ensure they proficient at the task at hand.