How akaverse’s Immersive Solutions Transform Training: Schaeffler’s Success Story

A PwC study examining 44 research articles found that immersive training yielded a significant 47% boost in knowledge retention and a 27% improvement in skills transfer compared to traditional training. In a recent collaboration, Schaeffler joined forces with akaVerse to transform training to eliminate challenges for technicians and mechanical workers. This initiative aims to enhance work performance and ensure safety in the automotive industry by leveraging innovative immersive training methods.

Background 

Schaeffler Group is a global supplier of bearings and components, focusing on automotive and industrial applications. The company was founded in Germany in 1946 and has since grown to become a leading player in its field and one of the largest family companies in the world.

Schaeffler’s products are used in a wide range of applications, including cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, wind turbines, industrial machinery, etc. The company’s bearings are known for their high quality, durability, and performance. 

Schaeffler boasts a strong presence with over 84,000 employees operating in more than 50 countries across the world. The company’s revenue reached $16.62 billion in 2022.

Challenges

A key stakeholder of Schaeffler is the worldwide network of mechanics working in local garages and distributors across more than 50 countries. Since they are from diverse educational backgrounds, many of them may lack formal mechanical training and are predominantly trained on the job by senior colleagues and peers. This emphasizes the necessity for intuitive, visualized, and readily accessible training materials to assist their workflow. 

However, the existing training materials face several challenges that hinder their work productivity and effectiveness. In a recent study by Leftronic, 41% of employees reported that poorly designed training programs impede their learning and development. Insights from akaVerse’s exclusive user interview reveal several major frustrations that mechanics and technicians often face when working, including:

• Incomplete instructions: Mechanics encounter difficulty finding comprehensive instructions as some steps are intentionally skipped, leading to gaps in their understanding.
• The complexity of traditional training materials: Current user manuals present a challenge with their dense, technical jargon, making them resemble walls of text. This complexity poses difficulties for mechanics in comprehending the content and locating precise and relevant instructions tailored to their specific tasks.
• Lack of immediate responsiveness: The absence of real-time warnings, tips, and tricks during each step means mechanics struggle to address problems promptly.
• Unintuitive design: Some sources of information do not include intuitive product photos/videos. Static, text-based materials also restrict mechanics from observing only one angle of the product, contributing to an overall lack of clarity.

This leads to inefficiencies, repair delays, and increased costs for customers. Mechanics, faced with incomplete or complex instructions, spend valuable time searching for necessary information. The lack of immediate responsiveness exacerbates challenges in troubleshooting ongoing issues promptly. 

The consequences include prolonged repair times and heightened expenses for customers. Furthermore, the absence of intuitive product visuals restricts mechanics’ comprehension and makes it more difficult for them to solve issues effectively. Streamlined and user-friendly training materials are imperative for enhancing the overall service experience for both mechanics and customers.

Solutions

Recognizing the challenges faced by mechanics and technicians due to the complexity and lack of dynamism in traditional training materials, Schaeffler turned to akaVerse to address this issue innovatively.

To overcome these challenges, akaVerse proposed a strategy centered on the deployment of 3D interactive content, transforming training materials, making them more vibrant, visual, accessible, and highly interactive for technicians and mechanical workers.

akaVerse’s solution involves in-depth research and evaluation of the potential implementation of 3D interactive content. From the initial stages, this solution will be deployed on mobile app. Key features:

• Unlike generic online learning platforms that offer a one-size-fits-all approach, Schaeffler’s bespoke solution provides content and features meticulously crafted to the specific needs of both the company and local mechanics.

• Users gain a comprehensive view of the entire process, spanning from problem diagnosis, vehicle disassembly, and blueprinting to parts repair/replacement/maintenance, refinishing, reassembly, and final inspection and delivery.
• The app offers inclusive, step-by-step instructions tailored for various car models, accompanied by reminders and notices at each phase of the process.
• Products are showcased through a 3D interactive object, providing diverse viewing modes and angles. Additionally, users can experience augmented reality (AR) for enhanced visualization.
• Mechanics have the capability to offer feedback and contribute their extensive mechanical knowledge garnered through years of experience.

Notably, Schaeffler and akaVerse have ambitious plans for the subsequent phases of the project, aiming to deliver a more breakthrough experience for users in the future, potentially incorporating virtual reality devices like Meta Quest, Pico, HTC Vive, and the highly anticipated Apple’s Vision Pro (tentatively released in 2024). 

The impacts 

Schaeffler’s adoption of 3D interactive content for mechanic training promises a significant impact on multiple levels:

Enhanced learning experience

Increased engagement and motivation: The integration of 3D visuals into training materials enhances engagement and motivation, transforming the learning experience into a dynamic and enjoyable process. Mechanics, as a result, can explore complex concepts and procedures in a realistic and immersive environment, fostering deeper understanding and retention.

Improved knowledge acquisition and retention: The utilization of 3D models and simulations allows mechanics to interact with and visualize objects in real time, elevating their comprehension of operational processes and, consequently, accelerating the learning process. Moreover, PwC’s 2019 report indicates a 40% improvement in confidence among employees trained by immersive methods compared to their traditional classroom counterparts and a 35% improvement over e-learners in applying acquired knowledge post-training. This remarkable achievement signifies the effectiveness of immersive training, contributing to a significant 275% boost in learners’ confidence to apply newly acquired skills.

Reduced reliance on traditional materials: 3D interactive content provides a self-paced learning environment, reducing dependence on text-heavy manuals and enabling mechanics to learn at their own pace and convenience.

Increased efficiency and productivity

Faster troubleshooting and problem-solving: The implementation of 3D interactive content significantly enhances troubleshooting and problem-solving for mechanics by providing them with comprehensive and interactive information about specific components and procedures. This accessibility enables them to diagnose and resolve issues more quickly and effectively.

Improved first-time fix rates: The improved first-time fix rates stand as a testament to the success of 3D training in furnishing mechanics with enhanced knowledge and skills. This proficiency enables them to resolve issues more accurately on the first attempt, ultimately minimizing rework and downtime.

Reduced training time and costs

The streamlined training process diminishes the time spent in traditional classroom settings, resulting in substantial cost savings. PwC found out that learning through immersive methods proves to be the most cost-effective when conducted on a large scale. At 3,000 learners, immersive training costs are 52% less than classroom training. This cost-effectiveness underscores the efficiency of virtual learning solutions.

Enhanced customer service

Reduced repair times and costs: The incorporation of 3D interactive content in mechanical training not only accelerates troubleshooting and problem-solving but also translates to reduced repair times and costs for customers. The faster identification and resolution of issues contribute to shorter repair times, ensuring a more efficient service. This efficiency results in lower costs for customers, creating a positive impact on their satisfaction and loyalty.

Improved communication and transparency: The improved communication and transparency facilitated by 3D content and simulations empower mechanics to articulate complex procedures and issues to customers effectively. This enhanced communication fosters trust and confidence between mechanics and customers, further elevating the overall service experience.

Looking Forward 

Workforce training is a pivotal aspect across various industries, yet it faces numerous challenges such as resource constraints and time limitations. Beyond technical training for mechanics, like in the case of Schaeffler, these challenges extend to a broader spectrum of training needs, such as employee onboarding and operational processes involving complex machinery and equipment. Freshers may encounter difficulties due to limited knowledge and a steep learning curve. The demand for comprehensive training resources often clashes with the need to swiftly master production line machinery.

Immersive training methods present a viable solution to address these challenges, offering efficient and effective training experiences within limited time frames. According to The Immersive Economy in the UK report (2019), immersive training can reduce training time by 40% and improve employee performance by 70%.

Immersive training is not merely a futuristic concept; it is a present reality. In the current landscape, businesses across diverse industries are actively adopting 3D technologies, virtual reality, and augmented reality to develop simulation and mixed-reality training programs.

Transforming training with akaVerse

akaVerse’s immersive training solutions transcend traditional boundaries, encompassing a comprehensive range of cutting-edge technologies, including 3D interactive content, augmented reality (AR) training, and virtual reality (VR) training. Through these innovative approaches, akaVerse revolutionizes the learning experience by providing a multi-dimensional and interactive platform for various industries. 

The incorporation of AR training allows users to blend the digital world with the real environment, enhancing real-time learning experiences. On the other hand, VR training immerses users in simulated environments, creating lifelike scenarios for hands-on practice. This diverse suite of immersive training solutions ensures a holistic and engaging approach, catering to the evolving needs of different sectors, from automotive mechanics to employee training, fostering knowledge acquisition, skill development, and operational excellence. 

Key features of akaVerse’s immersive training solutions:

• Universal compatibility: Works seamlessly with popular VR headsets like Meta Quest, Pico, HTC Vive, and Apple’s Vision Pro, offering unparalleled accessibility.
• Instant deployment & scalability: Deploy instantly with diverse training scenarios, easily updated and expanded, ensuring long-term value and sustainable training quality.
• Multiplayer support: Facilitate collaborative learning with real-time interaction between multiple users in the same virtual space, regardless of location.
• Remote collaboration: Empower users to access real-time assistance and guidance, fostering seamless collaboration and knowledge transfer across geographical distances.
• Realistic scenarios: Users engage in realistic scenarios, practicing their skills and reactions in virtual environments without actual risk.

Closing

Anticipated to foster a lasting partnership, this collaboration between akaVerse and Schaeffler signals a breakthrough in reshaping how automotive professionals learn and operate within their industry. This innovative solution introduces a fresh and exciting approach to learning and working, significantly reducing the time and effort required to grasp essential information. The cooperation holds the promise of creating a revolutionary standard for immersive and effective workforce training.

Reference 

CompaniesMarketCap (2023). Schaeffler (SHA.F) – Revenue. [online] companiesmarketcap.com. Available at: https://companiesmarketcap.com/schaeffler/revenue/#:~:text=Revenue%20in%202023%20(TTM)%3A [Accessed 13 Dec. 2023].

Digital Catapult and Immerse UK (2019). The Immersive Economy in the UK 2019. [online] Available at: https://assets.ctfassets.net/nubxhjiwc091/5wcen51tqGQSRl1SCgqRJQ/8dab9594b8049c03982621e65a5f8e3e/The_immersive_economy_in_the_UK_2019_Report_November2019.pdf [Accessed 13 Dec. 2023].

Leftronic (2022). 28 Interesting Employee Training Statistics. [online] leftronic.com. Available at: https://leftronic.com/blog/employee-training-statistics/ [Accessed 13 Dec. 2023].PwC (2020). The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Soft Skills Training in the Enterprise Public Report. [online] Available at: https://www.pwc.com/us/en/services/consulting/technology/emerging-technology/assets/pwc-understanding-the-effectiveness-of-soft-skills-training-in-the-enterprise-a-study.pdf [Accessed 13 Dec. 2023].

Exclusive article by FPT IS Technology Expert

Vu Duy Thanh

akaVerse CEO

FPT Information System Company.