A while back I posted about gamification and PLM, and the topic is still hot on my mind. But it's not just me; everybody is talking about gamification. And how can they not? It's everywhere!
Companies across a variety of industries are trying out, and succeeding with, gamification. Take a look at Pepsi, Jimmy Choo, USA Network and Microsoft. In fact, a whole bunch of Aras employees are hooked on Fitocracy, that app I mentioned last time around that turns fitness into a game.
The benefits of gamification are undeniable. From motivating leaders to complete internal training, to increasing time spent on a website and frequency of return, brands are building loyalty with gamifcation. Here are a few more examples of how companies are using gamification:
Nike is mentioned on almost every site giving examples of gamification. Their online community Nike + helps runners "stay motivated, challenged and connected." Users can track their activities, set personal goals, get training advice, and so much more - not to mention having famous athletes congratulating them. Nike + has grown into a huge brand with products and now supports activities beyond running. Believe it or not, Nike + began in 2008, it's a wonderful example of ongoing content marketing and gamification.
Xerox has been using gamification in numerous ways too, including management training. They have an application called Stepping Up where the user must apply learned skills in on-the-job activities called Quests. Quests can often be completed with other users, further driving social interaction in the business place. This application is integrated with Yammer and the users' progress is tracked on the Yammer site, adding yet another level of social interaction. It's a pretty great way to motivate employees to complete training.
LinkedIn takes a very simple approach to gamification - a completion bar. It's probably the easiest way to add a game component to a site. Reaching 100% completion is like beating a game - it's satisfactory, you know all the ins and outs. The progression bar LinkedIn uses compels users to take full advantage of everything LinkedIn has to offer - increasing time spent on their site. Human behavior drives us to complete tasks, so a completion bar is hard to ignore.
It's a trend that has gained a strong foothold in many industries because, let's face it, it works. It even has its own conference now. How are you using gamification or how do you plan on using it in the future? Let us know [email protected].