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IKEA commissions game-based e-learning

IKEA is using a game-based e-learning course to train its store co-workers in the UK on how to handle and process stock using the company's stock management system.

Brightwave has been commissioned to develop the e-learning programme in which learners move around virtual IKEA stores to solve a mystery.

The programme 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. Brightwave says the assessments are integrated with IKEA's Learning Management System to make the learning easily trackable and measurable.

Charles Gould, managing director for Brightwave, said: "We're demonstrating that e-learning can compare favourably with the best in classroom training in terms of the learner's experience.

"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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