In a rapidly evolving world, employee training is becoming increasingly important. Augmented reality (AR) has established itself as a pioneering technology for making training more effective, interactive and sustainable.
In this article, we look at how AR is being used in continuing professional development, the benefits of the technology and the trends that companies should be aware of in 2025.
Traditional training methods such as lectures or static e-learning modules often reach their limits, especially when complex topics or practical applications need to be taught. This is where AR can offer real added value:
Interactive and immersive: AR enables practical simulations in a safe environment.
Time and cost efficiency: Training courses can be held anywhere, which minimizes travel costs and downtime.
Higher learning success: Studies show that AR-supported training can increase the retention of information by up to 70 %.
Personalized content: The technology can be individually adapted to the needs of employees.
AR is often used in industry to communicate technical processes. One example is machine maintenance: employees can use AR glasses such as the Microsoft HoloLens to superimpose virtual instructions directly over the real machine.
Safety-critical training, such as behavior in emergencies or the handling of hazardous substances, benefit from AR. Employees can run through realistic scenarios without exposing themselves to real danger.
New employees can be introduced to their role more quickly with the help of AR. For example, workflows and production processes can be learned interactively.
AR is also increasingly being used in the area of soft skills. For example, sales talks or conflict management scenarios can be realistically simulated to improve employees' communication skills.
AR glasses: Despite their niche status, devices such as the Magic Leap 2 or HoloLens 2 are still relevant for training, especially in industry.
Smartphones and tablets: For many companies, these devices are the preferred platform as they are cheaper and more widely available.
AR apps for training: Platforms such as Scope AR or Vuforia offer companies the opportunity to create and distribute their own content.
AI integration: Modern training systems use AI to dynamically adapt content to the performance and progress of employees.
Despite the many advantages, there are a few hurdles that companies have to overcome:
High initial investment: Developing AR content and purchasing the necessary hardware can be expensive.
Acceptance problems: Employees must be prepared to use new technologies, which often requires training beyond the training itself.
Technological limitations: Not all companies have the infrastructure to make full use of AR.
The integration of augmented reality in employee training will continue to increase in the coming years. With the further development of AR technologies, such as the miniaturization of hardware and the introduction of new wearables, training courses will become even more flexible and efficient.
Wearable technologies: AR contact lenses or ultra-light AR glasses could soon conquer the market.
AI-supported personalization: Training content is being tailored more and more precisely to individual learning needs thanks to AI.
Cloud-based AR: Content can be streamed directly from the cloud without the need for powerful hardware.
Augmented reality is revolutionizing the way employee training is conducted. Companies that rely on this innovative technology can not only increase the efficiency and learning success of their training courses, but also position themselves as attractive employers. Getting started may be a challenge, but the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages. The future of training is digital - and augmented reality plays a key role.
Are you interested in developing a virtual reality or 360° application? You may still have questions about budget and implementation. Feel free to contact me.
I am looking forward to you
Clarence Dadson CEO Design4real
