Step into the Future of Training: Crédit Agricole IDF's Virtual Reality Journey

In just 5 years, Crédit Agricole IDF (CADIF) has revolutionised their staff training, laying aside outdated and expensive traditional methods in favour of immersive Virtual Reality (VR). Through a range of custom-built training scenarios, employees are transported out of the classroom and into realistic environments that perfectly mimic the real-world. Each virtual interaction provides an opportunity to hone skills, practice delicate financial conversations, and navigate complex scenarios within the simulated walls of a bank branch.

CADIF started with the simple observation that face-to-face or e-learning is often perceived as too methodical and theoretical, with low absorption of information and commitment from staff members. Not to be overcome by these limitations, CADIF sought a solution that would engage employees, boost knowledge retention, and ultimately improve the customer experience. Their answer? Dive headfirst into the world of VR.

The journey

The fascinating journey embarked upon by Crédit Agricole Technologies & Services (CATS) traces its roots back to 2018. It was during this pivotal time that CATS, a vital entity within the esteemed Crédit Agricole Group, was tasked with delving into research and presenting innovative solutions to spearhead training initiatives for its extensive staff. A meticulous evaluation of various options ensued, ultimately elevating VR as the optimal choice.

The proponents of this groundbreaking idea were not newcomers to the realm of technical solutions; having already engineered a diverse array of solutions for the group's 39 regional banks, encompassing 8,200 branches and catering to a colossal workforce of 72,000 employees serving 24 million customers, this adept team was uniquely positioned to champion the cause.

Fueled by an insatiable appetite for pioneering training methodologies, these forward-thinking minds set out to craft an in-house solution that empowered regional banks. The result was a system enabling them to independently utilise, generate, and disseminate content. By leveraging a VR application and a web platform, their training offering was transformed into an exciting, engaging, and immersive experience.

“With VR, we immediately experienced how immersive interactions would significantly improve the understanding of training, cut down on travel costs, and increase employees’ time if our agencies were equipped with VR devices,” explained CADIF Training Manager Carlos Lopez.

Yet, the team's vision transcended mere convenience. VR, in their eyes, emerged as a transformative tool capable of reshaping the very fabric of learning within the bank. CATS envisioned and built its own VR training world—a vibrant platform pulsating with 23 meticulously crafted scenarios. Each one, a microcosm unto itself, aimed to make staff more equipped and effective in their work.

Configuring the best hardware

But venturing into this uncharted territory required a trusted partner. After conducting research and weighing up the options, CATS opted for HTC VIVE, a company known for its unwavering stability and user-friendly ecosystem.

Guy Pellissier, responsible for AR-VR Innovation at CATS, says that HTC VIVE “brought stability and consistency to its strategy, which was in line with the expectations of a large corporation.” Together, they embarked on a transformative journey, crafting a bespoke VR training platform and content library that would revolutionise staff development.

Having begun with the VIVE Focus Plus, CADIF found that switching to the subsequently released VIVE Focus 3 allowed them to simplify the process of configuration and deployment of headsets as well as deliver a better user experience.

The HTC VIVE team provided not only technical knowledge related to hardware but also supported CATS with the integration of the VR headsets into their MDM fleet management tool and by assisting them with data security best practices.

This transformative journey wasn't just about VR, though; it was about building a stronger, more dynamic learning culture. CATS and HTC VIVE forged a partnership of mutual trust and dedication, their combined expertise proving crucial in navigating the challenges of large-scale implementation. As HTC VIVE representative Reda Ezzaim states, “large corporations need to feel supported in digitalisation projects of this scale. This illustrates our willingness to help our customers over the long term.”

After HTC understood CATS’ unique needs, they were well-placed to tailor their support to empower their vision. This wasn't a vendor-client relationship; it was a shared mission, fueled by a passion for transforming sterile training rooms into vibrant VR experiences.

This marks just the initial chapters of their transformative journey. Armed with an arsenal of diverse training modules and a dynamic innovation team brimming with ideas, CATS stands on the precipice of expanding its VR offerings. The development of new scenarios and a broader deployment strategy across the entire group provide ample room for the team to explore and innovate further. The future holds the promise of an even more expansive and impactful integration of VR into the fabric of learning and development across the Crédit Agricole Group.

A better future for all

Gone are the days of tedious e-learning modules and one-size-fits-all classroom environments. In their place, a vibrant tapestry of interactive scenarios has emerged. Whether navigating the intricacies of compliance guidelines, practicing delicate customer interactions, or mastering new product features, employees find themselves transported into realistic virtual environments where learning becomes an engaging exercise.

Today, the impact of VR training ripples through CADIF, with nine regional banks already reaping the benefits. Employees are enjoying increased confidence, improved knowledge retention, and a renewed sense of excitement towards their work.

Beyond the tangible benefits already realised, this collaborative effort is paving the way for an even more extensive and intricate VR ecosystem. The ongoing development of additional scenarios, coupled with the integration of cutting-edge technology, signals a future where VR becomes an indispensable tool for cultivating skills, fostering innovation, and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of the financial industry.

The story of CADIF and HTC VIVE is a testament to the fact that the future of corporate learning is not just virtual—it's vividly real and dynamically engaging.

VIDEO SUMMARY

Crédit Agricole IDF has achieved its goal of revolutionising staff training by laying aside traditional methods in favour of immersive Virtual Reality (VR). Their in-house VR platform boasts 23 custom scenarios designed to engage employees across 8,200 branches. Partnering with HTC VIVE, they have streamlined VR headset deployment and data security, slashed travel costs, and boosted employee understanding. This innovative approach has not only enhanced their customer experience but also transformed Crédit Agricole IDF into a VR training pioneer.

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