(Newswire.net — June 14, 2019) — Online gaming is no longer a hobby, but has become its own culture and way of life. While some gamers play professionally, most play during their free time. Balancing a passionate hobby and fulltime job can be difficult. It may come as no surprise that over half (54%) of gamers admit to playing video games while at work.
This may sound like a recipe for trouble in the workplace. However, recent research suggests that gaming in the workplace can have surprising benefits. Read more about how to use video games for training purposes and to increase overall employee engagement.
Video Games as Valuable Training Resources
Besides being a common pastime, video games can replicate real-world experiences. As a result, games can be used for training purposes in many career settings. From bartending to performing surgery, video games are used to sharpen skills in a variety of professions.
Hands-on experience is irreplaceable in any profession, but virtual training allows for customization and immediate feedback. In fact, one study found that simulation-based training results in higher self-efficiency, greater retention and overall increased knowledge as compared to traditional training methods. There are a different types of training games that can help develop varying skills. One gaming company in particular, Level Ex, helps experienced physicians perfect their practice. Besides offering entertainment, Level Ex’s games allow doctors to earn continuing medical education credits (CME) for licensure.
As new technology develops, the gaming experience will be improved as well. These advancements will allow for real-life training tools that can be invaluable to the workplace.
Gaming for Greater Employee Engagement
Overall happiness and positivity can foster a great company culture. The use of video games in the workplace may help employees harvest creativity, morale and productivity.
Encourages Creativity and Innovation
Playing games of any type has been linked to creativity. A Michigan State study found that video games in particular can help boost your imagination. The research shows that players become distracted by the objective of a video game and take unusual risks in the process. That mindset transfers as the players return to work. Gamers tend to be more willing to share uncensored thoughts and ideas to therefore boost creativity.
Increases Productivity
Employers may be hesitant to offer employees “playtime” while on the company dime. However, recent research shows that video games could help increase productivity by 20 percent.
Video games provide purposeful competition in the workplace. Amazon recently caught on to the use of gaming in its warehouses. The company has begun to use games to make work less tedious and encourage higher productivity. Simple games utilize the power of competition between employees through the virtual gaming world.
Besides offering increased productivity through competition, video games provide a break from the workday. A recent study concluded that casual video game play can restore players’ cognition and mood. Study participants who played games briefly while at work felt more refreshed than those who used other relaxation methods.
Boosts Morale
Playing games can be used to boost employee morale and encourage bonding. A gaming session during the workday can allow colleagues to bond, improve moods, and lower stress levels. Further, video games can provide a sense of accomplishment to add to employee happiness. Overall, a positive and fun environment allows for greater efficiency in the workplace.
Gaming in the Workplace: Don’t Knock it ‘til You Try It!
No matter the type of company, it is important to have well-trained and motivated employees. With new training tools and an abundance of research, it is clear that video games can be an asset to the workplace. Try incorporating gaming into your work environment: the results may be a surprising increase in your company’s efficiency and productivity.