Sweden’s PostNord partners with Warpin to train staff in the metaverse

Sweden’s postal services company PostNord is taking the process of recruiting employees a notch higher. The firm has teamed up with Stockholm-based metaverse company Warpin to train its staff in the metaverse.

Sweden’s PostNord uses virtual reality headsets to train its employees pic.twitter.com/wAieKvN2OC

— Reuters (@Reuters) April 27, 2022

PostNord and Warpin have created a series of virtual learning modules accessible through virtual reality (VR) headsets. Employees can learn tasks like sorting packages and operating vehicles in the simulated learning environment.

Explaining why the postal company embraced this progressive approach, PostNord’s Head of Training, Patrik Ågren, said it helps onboard people quickly.

Additionally, VR learning modules are up to 80% more effective than e-learning because they immerse employees in the work environment. They save time and money compared to traditional classroom training as an added benefit.

Warpin co-founder and CEO Emma Riddestad said many people believe the applications of VR and AR are social, gaming, and entertainment. However, she believes the real benefits will be improving treatment, education, and experience.

Ridderstad gave an example of research on cognitive therapy where people can train in a safe environment.

Mainstream companies continue embracing the metaverse

While PostNord’s interaction with the virtual world does not extend beyond training employees, other mainstream companies are going all the way.

An example is United Postal Services (UPS), which plans to enter the metaverse with virtual shipping services.

In April, the firm filed several patent applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The applications cover multiple virtual goods and services the firm seeks to offer. 

Apart from the shipping industry, companies like Mastercard are also exploring how to enter the metaverse. So far, the financial services giant has filed 15 non-fungible token (NFT) and metaverse-related patents.

The sports world is also keen on reaping the benefits of the virtual world, with English Premier League club Manchester City announcing plans to build the Etihad studio in the metaverse. Through this initiative, the pro-innovation team seeks to let millions of fans across the globe enjoy football matches in an immersive environment.