If you’re in retail, you should be exploring Mobile Learning for your business. This type of learning is becoming increasingly popular among Millennials and Gen Z, and with good reason. Unlike classroom training, mobile microlearning brings information to your employees where they are and doesn’t require pre-scheduled sessions. Besides, mobile learning is flexible and accessible, making it ideal for all employees. Read on to learn more about this emerging trend.
Millennials
The millennial generation, which comprises about half of the workforce in the retail industry, is known to be technology and value-driven. They expect transparency and authenticity in the buying experience and are willing to pay more for something that is unique and personal. Consequently, businesses that can deliver on these demands will reap the benefits of loyal customers and increased revenue. With their rapidly growing spending power, millennials represent a critical part of the future of retail.
As a result, companies must develop e-learning and mobile learning strategies that will appeal to Millennials and a variety of other demographics. A mobile learning program will engage the learners and ensure that they are well-equipped to deal with the multi-generational workplace. Millennials are particularly tech-savvy and prefer to use mobile devices while in the workplace. In fact, mobile learning, or mLearning, is now being used by 47% of U.S. businesses for their employee training.
Adapting to the needs of millennials means leveraging the latest technologies. Mobile devices are essential in adapting to the changing retail environment, and can enhance the shopping experience for consumers and retail associates. With smartphones and tablets, millennials can access virtually everything, including shopping reviews, maps, and social media. Mobile devices are also an effective way to keep track of prices and other information. They have grown to expect information at their fingertips and mobile devices provide them with exactly that.
As a result, many companies have already started implementing Bring Your Own Device initiatives to save money and time. Millennials are technology-savvy, but have limits when it comes to learning. The most effective training programs include those that are easy to use and don’t take too long. They should be able to work on their mobile devices and don’t frustrate the learners. In order to ensure a positive learning experience for millennials, companies must adapt their learning programs to mobile devices.
Wi-Fi
One of the ways that retailers can benefit from mobile learning is by using Wi-Fi. High-capacity wireless networks can provide customers with the services that they need, including help desk services, menus, in-store maps, alerts about sale items, and incentives. These services increase shopper loyalty, and help retailers compete with online retailers. The use of Wi-Fi can improve customer service and improve overall shopping experiences.
In-store Wi-Fi can be used to promote new products and services. Some retailers provide full Internet access, while others only grant access to certain sites and applications. The latter is effective for driving traffic and generating sales. Another approach is to make the network mandatory, so that users must view certain content before continuing with their session. For example, splash pages can advertise upcoming events in-store, and forms can require email addresses.
When a user connects to a Wi-Fi network in a retail setting, their phone will be redirected to a splash page that offers information on the network. Users must agree to the terms of service and enter their email address or Facebook profile to access the network. This process can take up to five minutes, and it can significantly increase the number of repeat customers. Wi-Fi networks can also be used to provide valuable insight for retail marketing, including the ability to target customers according to their preferences.
For example, Meijer, a supercenter chain in the Midwest, is using Wi-Fi to provide customers with mobile app capabilities. Customers can view maps of the store and create shopping lists using the app. The app can also send alerts about special sale items or incentives. The app can also recognize gas pumps. This data is critical for marketing and sales efforts. With Wi-Fi, every single person in a retail location is likely to have a mobile device.
Flexibility
Mobile learning is an ideal format for delivering training in the retail industry. This format allows employees to learn at their own pace while on the go. As more businesses switch to mobile learning, the flexibility and convenience of this format is key. Using mobile devices to deliver training is an effective way to ensure that employees are getting the information they need, while keeping them engaged and informed. Flexible mobile learning can be customized to fit the needs of employees in any environment.
While mobile learning is widely accepted as a new form of education, it is still subject to various characterizations. The industry is either a fad or an answer to the needs of time-poor mobile workers. A 2005 comparative research study conducted by the Australian Flexible Learning Framework examined Web-based information about mobile learning and 29 interviews with manufacturers of mobile devices. The study aimed to identify potential uses of these technologies for learning and commerce.
The flexibility of mobile learning is key in setting up employees for success in retail. It allows employees to access training and information at anytime and anywhere, and can even be paired with mobile devices. Employees can reference products while they’re on the job, while developing new skills and knowledge. With mobile learning applications, people can easily download courses and study at the same time. Microlearning, in particular, pairs well with mobile learning. This type of training is comprised of short, engaging lessons.
In terms of flexibility, mobile learning is a more flexible format than traditional classroom-based learning. It allows employees to complete training at their own pace, without disrupting their existing workload. Unlike classroom-based training, mobile learning can be used on any device, whether it’s a smart phone or a tablet. It can also be used for other purposes, like refresher courses on corporate policies. In addition to being more convenient, mobile learning can also improve retention rates.
Accessibility
A majority of consumers have a disability, so making sure that your website is accessible for everyone is crucial. Approximately 63% of all shopping journeys start online, and a website needs to be accessible to everyone to be successful. In the United Kingdom, the spending power of disabled consumers is PS249 billion. In Australia, they have AUD54 billion. And in the US, over $490 billion is spent by people with disabilities online. If your site doesn’t provide an accessible environment, your potential customers will go elsewhere.
To ensure that your courses are accessible to everyone, consider providing fun and engaging UI elements to engage learners. Mobile learners may enjoy interactive features such as games, quizzes, and social features. And with many course options available offline, a mobile learning course can provide a convenient option for continuing education. But make sure to consider all the accessibility features before you make a final decision on whether or not to use mobile learning for your retail business.
One of the greatest advantages of mobile learning is its portability. Employees can access the course from their mobile devices anywhere they go, which can help them learn on the go. Additionally, a BYOD program gives employees the option to fit in their learning in smaller chunks. Many people retain information better when the information is broken down into small bits. And a mobile learning program can also be easily adapted to a variety of devices.
Whether your customers are older or younger, there’s a mobile learning solution for them. The accessibility of a mobile learning platform can make the difference between success and failure. For example, a mobile learning app can be used to train sales associates and help customers with disabilities learn. And if you’re considering building your own mobile learning solution, make sure that it’s accessible for all. This way, you’ll be able to make the most of your mobile learning program.
ROI
The business case for investing in mobile learning in retail is compelling, and the ROI associated with employee retention and time to proficiency is more than justifiable. Mobile learning also offers additional benefits that can improve overall productivity, enhance the customer experience, and free up capital for other strategic priorities. For big box retailers, the ROI associated with mobile learning is a powerful tool to maximize customer value and organizational efficiencies. But, how does a retailer evaluate the ROI of mobile learning for retail?
The cost of a training half-day for 20 employees can be as low as $1,200, and the course lasts for four hours. With $12 per hour employees, this amount would come to $960. It’s also possible to gather employee feedback via a short rating quiz. Metrics to track include new customer wins, sales growth, higher average sales per order, shorter closing times, and customer complaints. For the most cost-effective training, companies should measure the ROI of mobile learning in retail by examining employee satisfaction, loyalty, and sales volume.
As the market shifts towards a more digital world, the ROI of mobile learning for retail is increasingly important. While the ROI of mobile learning may seem small, the ROI of a retail app will increase significantly, as long as a store’s average order value increases. In addition, if the app can be seamlessly integrated with an ecommerce site, the ROI can be enormous. By ensuring that your employees are happy and efficient, the ROI of mobile learning in retail is sure to be high.
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in retail will continue to grow exponentially. With the right AI-based solutions, retailers will be able to measure the effectiveness of their solutions and increase revenue. These solutions are a critical part of making personalized commerce a reality. A retail AI solution is essential for making personalized commerce a reality for retailers. Insights into the ROI of mobile learning in retail will allow organizations to take a leap forward.
