3D Virtual Trainer (2014)
The requirements from General Dynamics were two-fold. Develop a digital dashboard for field technicians to improve onsite performance and knowledge base. The other was to develop an interactive environment to help Marines familiarize themselves with command operations. The experience was to include equipment familiarization, procedures for proper setup of hardware/software, and location for those assets. These immersive environments also helped acclimate the Marine to their surroundings prior to being deployed.
For the 3D trainer, I pulled from my gaming background to incorporate familiar features and gameplay mechanics found in current games. The process included a detailed set of storyboards, many on-site data capture sessions for accurate measurement and photos of equipment, and weekly design sessions with Artists and Developers to deliver an immersive and engaging experience.
Interactive proximity tags
Waypoints on the floor direct the player where to go
Previsualization
Due to the scope of the contract, we presented a set of detailed storyboards to show how the end application was going to look. These early presentations allowed for quick feedback and buy-in from the customer at a very early stage of development.
Populated Command Center
Marine approaches an asset to scan barcode
After the scan, all information is displayed
Data Capture and 3D modeling
The training was broken down into multiple components "T3" methodology: Tell, Try, and Test.
Tell (Familiarization). The Marine is able to navigate the environment, interact with key pieces of equipment, and its proper placement within the Command Center. Proximity Tags highlight above components to inform the user of interactive assets.
Try (Overview). Training is guided by an avatar that helps the Marine through their training. They are given tips and hints as the Marine follows a set of instructions that are listed in the instruction panel.
Test (Advanced). The Marine is asked to work through a scenario without hints. The Marine should be able to follow procedures that were taught in the previous settings. Progress is recorded in an LMS that can be reviewed by the Marines Command to validate compliance.
Onboarding
