The benefits of gamification: How gamified solutions can be applied in learning and enterprises

Imagine having to read a 100 page manual on workplace policies. Now, imagine playing a game designed around workplace policies, where the right answers result in rewards. Almost everyone would find the second scenario a lot more enjoyable and stimulating. This is the basic underlying principle behind gamification, a concept that has revolutionized learning and found application in a variety of sectors.

In a nutshell, gamification basically applies strategies commonly seen in video games to positively motivate users for engaging in desired activities and behaviors pertaining to real world situations. Game-like elements such as points, levels and the ability to compete with others serve as motivation to incentive users to continue to engage in activities that would otherwise seem routine and dull.  Gamification can be applied to a number of scenarios including academic learning, workplace training and customer engagement. In 2017, gamification as a strategy continues to hold importance in shaping learning and training initiatives, productivity and consumer behavior.

Key benefits of gamification:

1.   Increased levels of engagement: Gamification adds an element of enjoyment to the activity in question and provides positive reinforcement that stimulates users. 

   
2. Heightened learning and knowledge retention: The increased  engagement with the content being  delivered   promotes more effective learning and greater retention  of information.

How gamified solutions can provide results:

Learning and education: Game-based learning splits up complex material into smaller portions of content over time, with visual aids which promotes more engagement and better learning. 

Workplace training and productivity: Gamified solutions for workplace training and productivity are known to have positive results Rewards, milestones and leaderboards act as incentives for improving performance and achieving targets. Businesses like Deloitte have used gamification to improve  training programs.

Sales and consumer behavior: Interactive gamified applications increasing consumer engagement. that show people how to use a product or give them rewards for availing a service or buying products, like this app by Starbucks.