Millennials are fast replacing previous generations as the dominant generation in the nation's workforce. To keep up with the need for more efficient and effective training, employers must keep two words in mind: innovation and technology. The next generation of workers embodies what the future of LMS looks like. Millennials are the largest group of users when it comes to technology and social media, and employers looking to keep them engaged in learning and training must look to use that as a tool when creating new mobile training platforms for LMS.
Virtual Reality (VR) Technology
VR technology has advanced so far that we are now able to place employees in seemingly real-life situations with the safety and security of being able to make mistakes without having a negative impact on business productivity. Virtual Reality provides a safe place for employees to gain experience and skills before heading "on-stage" so-to-speak.
Wal Mart has already implemented virtual reality technology in their retail employee training programs with successful results. They created a simulation for cashiers of what Black Friday looks like from an employee's perspective and prepared their workers for the intensity of shopping that happens on that day every year.
The employees who participated in the program left feeling well prepared for what was coming and were satisfied with the store for implementing a program that reached out to them in a way they had never experienced. When compared to the standard computer training modules, employees felt much more attentive and engaged in what they were being taught when the element of virtual reality was introduced. Additionally, those who participated in the virtual reality training were also said to have felt much less anxious about the upcoming shopping day.
Mobile Applications
It's no secret that millennials are frequently on their smartphones. In fact, many of them already use this as a platform for mobile training. Mobile applications like Duolingo have been incredibly successful in helping mobile users learn new languages. Employers looking to find engaging platforms for this generation to receive training should look to using mobile applications as an excellent resource for getting millennials involved in a way that speaks to them.
A unique feature to consider with mobile applications (when tailoring them to fit the needs of millennials) is to add a social aspect to the platform. While training programs can be tailored to fit the individual, having an additional feature such as a message board or forum will create a sense of community. Users will be able to compare ideas and it will encourage growth and innovation within the company. Think of it as a digital version of having a traditional conference room meeting.
In addition to the benefits for users of the mobile application, having a message board or forum is the perfect place for upper management to view employee feedback in a candid yet inclusive way, which is very important to millennials.
The millennial generation is empowered and innovative. To keep this generation engaged and effective and to encourage employee retention, upper management or those in charge of learning administration would be smart to invest in the technological advancement of LMS.
To learn more about the modernization of learning management systems, take a look at our guide, 6 Key Rules to Unlock Your Modern Training Program.
