Sisu VR: Using Virtual Reality for Empowering Workplace Training

by John Nowacky
in $$$, Action, VR
on 24 July 2024

Virtual Reality (VR) technology has come a long way since its inception. While most people associate VR with gaming or entertainment, Sisu VR is taking a different approach. Founded by CEO Jocelyn Tan, Sisu VR aims to provide immersive training experiences for companies, preparing employees for situations they hope they never have to face.

Tan’s motivation for starting Sisu VR stemmed from her own experiences working as an engineering manager in various Silicon Valley tech companies. She faced discrimination, harassment, and bullying, which led her to take action. “I can completely leave STEM or I can do something about the problem,” she said.

The initial project of Sisu VR was VR harassment training. Through interviews with professionals who had experienced misconduct, scenarios were developed to simulate various workplace situations. Trainees assume different roles, such as victim, witness, manager, and perpetrator, to navigate scenarios involving microaggressions, workplace politics, and how to give feedback and apologize properly. The immersiveness of VR allows trainees to embody different identities, potentially enhancing empathy.

In a strategic move, Sisu VR partnered with startup MindGlow, eventually acquiring the company in 2022. Together, they developed VR active shooter training. Trainees learn to identify gunfire and its source, practice hiding, self-defense techniques, and evacuations. While the shooter in the training is represented by a “cardboard cutout” rather than a real person, physically performing these actions in VR can better prepare individuals compared to simply watching a video. The training is timed, encouraging trainees to improve their response speed.

Sisu VR’s approach may seem dystopian to some, but Tan acknowledges that it is a challenging topic to discuss. Nevertheless, the primary goal is to protect and empower individuals and, potentially, save lives. In addition to their training programs, Sisu VR has also developed a no-code VR engine that allows developers to create their own VR applications. This platform is set to launch in August, and anyone interested can join the waitlist by emailing [email protected].

Through their innovative use of VR technology, Sisu VR is changing the way companies approach workplace training, providing immersive experiences that enhance empathy, empower individuals, and better prepare them for potential future challenges.

Additional facts:

1. Sisu VR offers a range of other VR training programs besides harassment and active shooter training. These include leadership development, diversity and inclusion training, and virtual team-building exercises.
2. The use of VR technology in training has been shown to improve knowledge retention and engagement compared to traditional training methods.
3. Sisu VR has received recognition and awards for their innovative approach to workplace training, including being named a Top 10 Finalist in the 2022 SXSW Startup Pitch Competition.
4. The VR engine developed by Sisu VR not only allows for the creation of VR training programs but also opens up opportunities for other applications, such as virtual meetings, product simulations, and virtual tours.
5. Sisu VR has collaborated with several well-known companies and organizations to provide customized VR training solutions, including Google, LinkedIn, and the United Nations.

Key questions and answers:

1. What is the main goal of Sisu VR’s training programs?
The main goal of Sisu VR’s training programs is to empower individuals and better prepare them for potential workplace challenges, ultimately creating safer and more inclusive work environments.

2. How does VR training enhance empathy?
VR training enhances empathy by allowing trainees to embody different roles in simulated workplace scenarios. By experiencing different perspectives, trainees can gain a deeper understanding of the impact of their actions and develop greater empathy towards others.

Key challenges or controversies:

1. Privacy concerns: The use of VR technology involves collecting and storing user data, raising concerns about privacy and how the data is used and protected.
2. Cost and accessibility: Implementing VR training programs can be expensive, requiring specialized equipment and software. This may limit access to VR training for smaller companies or those with limited resources.
3. Ethical considerations: The use of VR to simulate sensitive workplace situations, such as harassment or active shooter scenarios, raises ethical questions about the potential psychological impact on trainees and the responsibility of companies to ensure the well-being of their employees.

Advantages:

1. Immersive and realistic training experiences: VR technology provides a highly immersive and realistic environment for training, enhancing engagement and knowledge retention.
2. Safe and controlled learning environment: VR training allows individuals to practice challenging or dangerous scenarios in a safe and controlled virtual space, reducing risks associated with real-life training.
3. Customizability and scalability: Sisu VR’s no-code VR engine allows for the creation and customization of VR training programs, making it accessible to a wide range of industries and organizations.

Disadvantages:

1. High upfront costs: Implementing VR training programs can require a significant upfront investment in equipment and software, making it challenging for some organizations to adopt.
2. Technical limitations: VR technology is constantly evolving, and there may be technical limitations or compatibility issues that can impact the effectiveness of the training experience.
3. Potential for simulation sickness: Some individuals may experience discomfort or motion sickness when using VR technology, which can affect their ability to fully engage in the training.