A customized simulation gives learners the chance of training on modules which are industry specific as well as company specific, creating a unique and relatable experience from a cultural, behavioral, and/or technical standpoint. This article talks about the importance of custom simulations and how they are revolutionizing the L&D space.

What is a Simulation?

A simulation imitates the operation of real-world processes or systems with the use of models. The model represents the key behaviors and characteristics of the selected process or system while the simulation represents how the model evolves under different conditions over time.

Simulations are usually computer-based and use software-generated models to provide support for the decisions of managers and leaders as well as to train professionals for different skills’ development. Simulation techniques aid understanding and experimentation, as the models are both visual and interactive, and provide a safe space for learners to explore their shortcomings and strengths.

What are customized Simulations?

A customized business simulation is one that has been modified and contextualized to precisely suit the specific requirements of the learning program and/or the learners’ cohort. A customized simulation gives learners the chance of training on modules which are industry specific as well as company specific, creating a unique and relatable experience from a cultural, behavioral, and/or technical standpoint.

What should Customized Simulations offer?

Rapid Authoring Process

Real-life simulations that can be built and deployed at a rapid pace.

Contextualization

Simulations that can be tailored at your organization’s culture, context, role, and levels in the organization.

Analytics Enablement

Organizations must get rich analytics and insights at an individual and group level.

Scalability

Custom simulations can add great value if they can be deployed at an organization-wide scale across geographies and levels within a short period of time.

How are Customized Simulations Revolutionizing the L&D Space?

There are many benefits of customizing a business simulation which, inter alia, include:

1. Increased relevance

This is one of the biggest benefits of customization. When a simulation has been customized for an organization, it becomes a lot more realistic and relevant for the learners taking part and provide gamified fun along in a real-world-like scenario. For example, if a company’s own products are used or referred to in the simulations which the delegates are familiar with, then it will naturally make the simulation feel more realistic and interesting.

2. Virtual exploration of real scenarios

The simulation mirrors what would actually happen if the delegates made certain decisions within their company. Delegates are therefore able to understand the concepts being presented better and can link the material back to their own workplace. This makes customized simulations feel like a more worthwhile experience than using standardized, one-size-fit-all programs.

3. Unique values-based experience

Companies can also have unique simulations tailored for their employees which can be a real asset in terms inculcation of key organization values and goal. Such simulations can be used repeatedly and can be contextualized for different objectives. If a simulation is customised using the company’s logo, financial data, KPI targets as well as being authored using their own terminology, it can make the delegates feel like they are taking part in something truly unique to their company.

4. More engaging toolkits

Simulations may include different projects and market updates which delegates can choose to respond to. If these are specific to a company e.g. A supermarket has been fined for selling out-of-date food, it means that the supermarket managers playing the simulation are more likely to remember the impact this had and how they responded to it, than if the update was related to any other industry, say automobiles. Customization also makes the documentation being handed out to teams look better.

Customized simulations give a distinct edge to the programs in terms of the various use cases they provide. Some of these are listed below:

• Organizational Value Simulations
• Role-based Approach
• New-age Topics such as Wellbeing and DEI
• Leadership and Digital Competencies
• Process and Compliance Training
• Product Training
• Technical Courses

Takeaway

Among many things, the future of L&D will be governed by entities that are able to craft seamless learning strategies that can boost performance and enhance learning culture. Organizations need to fast forward their learning and development approach in order to scale with the rapid change across the globe. Transformative learning will help organizations and employees thrive even when technologies, trends, or industries undergo speedy transformation. This is not a time for rigidity. L&D organizations need to offer customizable simulations to people so that they can learn according to their own requirements and pace.

KNOLSKAPE has been an innovator in the space of simulations and with ‘Genie’ – our proprietary simulation building capability, we are developing, customizing, and scaling simulations faster than ever. Get in touch with us to know more.