We have observed a continued interest in incorporating interactive software simulations into Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) eLearning training plans and adoption initiatives. If you are not familiar with them, below is a review in the form of an FAQ, along with examples showing standard design options.
(Custom design options are explained in another blog here.)
Q1: What are software simulations?
A1: Interactive software simulations are tools for learners to explore product features or procedures in a simulated environment that replicates the user interface. Simulations guide learners through the chronological steps of a procedure by prompting them to click icons, select objects, and enter text, as required, just like they would when using the actual software.
Q2: What are the benefits of software simulations?
A2: Software simulations allow users of the software to learn a company’s processes and best practices in an interactive and focused environment, without needing to install software or maintain a training database. They are especially useful for learning new product development and change management processes resulting from a PLM system upgrade. Software simulations can be referenced and repeated before or after the GoLive date to become comfortable with the processes.
For your reference, here is a link to a previous blog discussing 5 reasons to consider incorporating software simulations into your PLM training and eLearning plans: 5 Reasons to consider Software Simulations for PLM Training (ascented.com)
Q3: Can software simulations be added to a Learning Management System (LMS)?
A3: Yes! The software simulations that we create can be imported to a Learning Management System that your company hosts, or our company hosts for your access. You can also choose to host them on a webserver if LMS reporting is not required.
Q4: What do software simulations look like?
A4: The software simulation with standard design options replicates the software interface with callouts, hint boxes, and notes added to the display. Below are a few screenshots from an example showing a task note, callouts prompting to click and enter text, as well as a note explaining the results. Notes are often used for emphasis on best practices.
Note: Callouts and notes can be set up with a company’s specific branding requirements for color, font, etc.
For a hands-on example of a standalone simulation, click the following link: https://cdn.rand.com/engage/Rand3D/SearchSim/index.html
Standard design options include:
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Guide me with callouts, step-by-step: This option shows the steps or a process using callouts detailing the action to perform. The action could be clicking an icon, selecting a menu, or entering text. One benefit of this scenario is that you can perform the steps as quickly or as slowly as you like.
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Guide me with a hint, when I need it: Using hints allows the learner to think first before attempting an action. You can set up hints to display on rollover of the correct location or by clicking in an incorrect location, for example.
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Guide me with a callout after a defined number of attempts: This option is designed to allow the learner to perform the process by themselves by providing only required information. If the learner is unsuccessful after a defined number of attempts, they can be shown a callout or hint.
This blog provided a review of interactive software simulations with standard design options. Please reach out if you would like more information about how we can create simulations for your organization including customized design options. Email us! training@rand.com
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