Gamification: Reasons HR Managers Can’t Ignore

Why gamification should be part of your strategy

Gamification is about designing purpose-built experiences and systems to achieve specific learning outcomes. This can range from systems that deliver points and badges to complex and detailed scenarios.

What is gamification?

Gamification can also be delivered on many devices ranging from mobile solutions to Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). So instead of seeing gamification as a plugin or a single solution, think of it more as a mindset. Game thinking can be applied to all types of training and we have seen an increase in the use of game mechanics in virtual classrooms, various systems, employee onboarding, health and safety training and even makeup application training – the list goes on.

This is because companies are beginning to realize the potential of using a games-based approach for its ability to increase engagement in learning and development strategies (L&D). Learning activities can be structured around game elements such as scenarios, character paces and levels, as well as using appropriate reward structures to engage learners in the activities. By playing the experiences, students can develop and build the skills they need in their work environment.

Reasons why HR managers can’t ignore gamification

1. Ever-growing expectation

50% of the UK and 65% of the US population play games, and this is especially strong in the millennial generation. Millennials today comprise 35% of the workforce in the US and UK.

The staff expects active involvement in learning as standard along with immersive experiences. This means that we need to find ways to involve them and speak their language when it comes to learning and development. If organizations do not adapt to address these target groups, attracting talent will become an increasing challenge.

2. Contextualizes Learning and Promotes Behavioral Change

Of course, the reason we have learning and development features is to improve performance. We want to see behavioral change. However, to see a change in behavior we need to understand what ‘good’ looks like and we need to know why it’s important, and we need to care about it. In other words, we need the motivation, we need the context and we need to believe that a change will lead to a better outcome.

In gamification and game-based learning, the target behavior is presented in a work-based scenario, where we put the learner in control of the situation. Within the scenario we ask them to make certain choices and to show their understanding. And then, based on these choices, we will provide feedback, positive or constructive, to reinforce or refine the behavior we want to see.

3. Makes training effective

The UK spends £42 billion a year on training and US$93 billion. So it’s no wonder that organizations are looking for a good Return On Investment. And training is of course more complex now that we have hybrid and remote work models. Human interaction in learning remains an important part of the blend, but access to specialists can often become a bottleneck. This is where digital learning can shine.

• A games-based approach can take your best trainers and immortalize them as digital mentors
• An analytics dashboard can indicate what each individual learner understands and where they need more support
• A game approach can provide a motivating and engaging framework to create a ripple effect, where students can build their knowledge and develop a love of learning

Conclusion

Gamification is all about selecting the best game mechanics for a learning challenge and coming up with a solution that encourages engagement and improves student performance. It is not a panacea to solve all learning and development challenges, but it should be part of the strategy, part of the mix of solutions you offer your students. It is best used to motivate complex and nuanced scenarios and provide context. It can provide psychological safety so that students can practice and refine their skills.

Gamification not only stimulates engagement, but also distinguishes your organization from the competition. By designing your strategy around the needs and desires of your students, by offering them different and engaging ways to learn, you show that you value and value your staff. By doing this, you attract talent and ultimately drive better business performance.