Brightwave develops game-based e-learning for IKEA

Using a mystery game to train co-workers on stock handling processes

Brightwave, the workplace learning specialist, has been commissioned by IKEA, the world's leading home furnishings company, to develop an engaging course for their store co-workers in the UK. The e-learning programme has a Cluedo-style theme and learners move around IKEA stores to solve a mystery. In the process they learn how to handle and process stock using IKEA's stock management system. The course is scheduled to be rolled out to all new co-workers in the UK as part of their induction process.

"We needed to make sure that our stock is processed correctly so that customers can trust the product availability searches we offer on the internet and over the phone," said Neil Crowson, E-Learning Project Manager for IKEA. "Training co-workers on how to use our systems accurately is a key part of making this process run smoothly. The training also helps us to reduce stock wastage and keep costs low. We chose to work with Brightwave because we felt that they were a good cultural fit and they came up with high-quality creative ideas that could be turned into engaging yet measurable courses."

The course is preceded by an assessment where the learners' knowledge is checked and a post assessment to check what the user has actually learnt. There are also a number of quizzes throughout the course that the learner has to pass in order to move onto the next area. One month after completion the learner will be sent another assessment to check what information they have retained for the long term. All assessments are integrated with IKEA's Learning Management System to make the learning easily trackable and measurable.

"We're demonstrating that e-learning can compare favourably with the best in classroom training in terms of the learner's experience," said Charles Gould, Managing Director for Brightwave. "Serious games and simulations give learners the opportunity to explore content in a much wider sense than in a traditional course. By trying out different routes and solutions they are more likely to engage with the content and retain information for the long term. Coupled with solid assessments, these types of e-learning programmes are proving to be very effective."

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