Gamification in business
Industry 4.0 is a markedly technological phenomenon. Its difference to previous revolutions lies in the leap represented by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data and similar features. Of course, this movement is not only technical, but also involves behavioral aspects. So it’s interesting to look at gamification and the industrial landscape.
The technique in question has become increasingly popular in the contexts of training and professional training. Basically, the process involves inserting playful and competitive elements as a way to motivate and involve workers. Investment in this type of activity reflects the spirit of Industry 4.0.
After all, there is no point in implementing the latest technologies in the market if there are no behavioral and management changes. This is why employees are now seen and valued as one of the main capitals of industry 4.0. If gamification is still new to you, we explained the concept a bit before showing how it impacts the industrial landscape.
Gamification: Concept and examples of success
As we saw in the introduction, this is a very simple concept to understand. But it is worth addressing the functioning of the activity in practice. Before this, it is important to remember that the concept of games can be quite broad. Today, however, it is impossible to separate activity from the digital environment.
This is a process that began in the 80’s, with the development of the first consoles and arcade games. The virtual elements that make up modern games allow a dynamic and more engaging application of gamification in work environments.
Companies that have recently adopted the practice include Danone, Siemens Healthineers and Telefonica Brasil. In general, gamification involves the construction of plots that point out the objectives of the activity. Each problem or goal solved by the employee is offered a reward. In the course of the journey, it is usually figured, being converted into something concrete only at its end.
Gamification and the industrial scenario: What is the relationship?
The big question is whether this whole concept makes sense for the industrial context. If we think of Industry 4.0, it is not difficult to come up with an answer. Just understand that this is a scenario that seeks to value and engage employees. The application of game mechanics and interfaces in this context is highly efficient.
Technology can address the needs and interests of employees and direct them to key industry activities. In other words, the goals defined in the company’s action plan are adapted to the gamefied journey. Thus, activities are no longer seen as mere obligations.
Instead, they take on the role of achievements. Comparatively, it’s as if the worker has reached the next stage of a game. This is how the progression of activity increases productivity and engagement. The successful relationship between gamification and the industrial landscape begins here.
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Practical example: SEW-EURODRIVE
To see how gamification and the industrial landscape go well together, it’s worth checking out the SEW-EURODRIVE experience. The project was put into practice at Hannover Messe, one of the largest trade fairs in the world. The highlight of the event was the presentation of projects related to autonomous vehicles and other automation technologies.
It is worth remembering that SEW-EURODRIVE is a leading technology company focused on the industry. Because of this, the organization is recognized worldwide for its innovative role. In its body, there are more than 16,000 employees, spread over 45 countries. In the aforementioned event, the organization used innovative tools in the context of gamefication.
The presented interfaces took advantage of interaction features based on motion, real-time 3D visualization and augmented reality. Know that this combination of tools provides a glimpse into the paths that Industry 4.0 will take. Believe me, many productive and logistical tasks will benefit from these technologies.
How did the project work?
The narrative of the project displayed in Hannover revolved around an industrial plant of the future. In this exercise of imagination, we found an industry where most internal logistics processes were done by autonomous vehicles. The role of these robots was simple: to take goods from point A to point B.
In the plant, some autonomous vehicles would accompany workers facilitating their tasks when performing punctual actions. The structure ended with a conveyor to send the products, according to their type, to different packaging machines. Here, the relationship between gamification and the industrial landscape begins at the user interface.
At this point, workers can visualize packages from above with the help of augmented reality. In addition, they are able to select products with a touchscreen panel. The system illuminates the most suitable box for the product, guiding the user. When this choice is made, autonomous vehicles transport the selected product box, taking it to a predetermined destination.
The inspiration in video games
If we compare the process described earlier with the current games, one point stands out. The factory professionals of the future control mobile units as well as gamers in strategy games. In this system, a single individual can manipulate several machines. Here, we have a good example of the union between gamification and the industrial scenario.
The entire process and vehicle control approach is designed to deliver the best interactive experience. The autonomous vehicle that carries the boxes has even status that can be checked in menus similar to those found in the games.
The interface also features a series of interactive elements that show users the choices they can make. The information details the different routes and obstacles present in the path of the robots. All these factors serve to facilitate the routine of industry professionals, making even their decisions are simplified.
Innovative technologies and industrial scenario
The influence of video games has allowed gamification and the industrial landscape to become both more dynamic. In addition, the interfaces developed from this framework are increasingly intuitive and efficient. The fact is that in the industry games are inspiration and method to transform the daily life of plants.
Benefits of Gamification in the industry context
At the beginning of this article, we mentioned that many people still have difficulty understanding the relationship between gamification and the industrial landscape. We hope to have clarified the issue, demonstrating how this activity suits industry 4.0. We reiterate, above all, the activity’s engagement potential.
We also remember that gamification and the industrial landscape also benefit in other ways. After all, this is an especially efficient way to develop and retain talent, but not just that. Training is facilitated, and teams are strengthened. And most importantly, the use of technology in this context is an open door to innovation.
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