Dive Brief:
- Although the tech is still expensive, many in the food and beverage industry are turning to virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) to train employees (and consumers), reports Tech Crunch. Immersive learning through VR and AR tech is touted as providing consistent and thorough employee training.
- Restaurants are using VR to train employees on cooking noodles, perfecting their espresso pull and more. AR is helping trainees estimate serving sizes and teaching technicians how to disassemble and reassemble equipment for cleaning and maintenance.
- Food and beverage vendors are even using VR and AR to train their consumers. At a recent event, virtual and augmented reality tours were provided, as well as VR footage that complemented tastings.
Dive Insight:
As the cost goes down and the tech becomes mainstream, more industries are jumping on the VR and AR bandwagon. Insurance companies use the tech to train claims reps on damage assessment. Recently, KFC began using VR to train its staffers on cooking techniques. And Walmart announced that it had teamed with STRIVR to create and provide VR for its employee training programs. The June announcement promised 140,000 associates would be trained using the tech by the end of 2017.
Facebook, despite low sales for its Oculus VR headsets, is ramping up its hiring of VR professionals as immersive hiring and training modules gain steam in the market. It's largely believed that training that focuses on a multisensory experience helps employees learn faster and retain knowledge longer. In addition, VR training gives employees the opportunity to learn and fail in a safe setting, rather than on the sales floor or in the kitchen.
Google also has doubled down on its Glass, despite a disappointing launch. The company has focused its new version on workplace training, hoping to capitalize on interest in AR.
