Misconceptions About Gamification

As with any other training strategy, gamification has seen its fair share of criticism as well as misconception. Today, let’s clear the air around gamification and how it can be used.

Almost everyone is writing praise about gamification and its benefits, but with so much information circulating online, some common myths crop up here and there. These gamification misconceptions can hinder its successful implementation as a valuable learning strategy. Some objections about gamification can include opinions that it is superficial or unnecessary, or that it is costly and difficult to measure. 

It’s understandable that something that seems like a buzzword brings with it some level of skepticism. But these objections usually come from those who are quick to dismiss its value without being fully educated on the concept, and others who were unable to find success with their approach to gamification. As a result, they conclude that gamification is an ineffective or a flawed system. 

But, if everyone could understand the true purpose of gamification it can be an exciting approach that enables users of all ages and backgrounds to become more engaged and excited in the workplace. 

Let’s explore and debunk some of the top myths surrounding gamification. 

Myth #1: Adding Badges and Points = Success

One of the most common misconceptions about gamification is that you can just add some badges or points to your training program and engagement will skyrocket. But, it’s not that easy. While badges and points can work to be an effective part of your training, you need to use them strategically.

Giving out badges for completing courses won’t motivate employees on its own, especially if it has no meaning in either the game or the real world. More so if your training only takes place over a few days per year. 

Gamification tactics need to correspond to the training program and business goals of your organization. For example, if you want your team to work on their collaboration your gamification strategy needs to reflect that. For example, using a leaderboard would help inspire friendly competition between teams at work. Or you can encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration by adding in social tasks that reward users when they complete a level together. 

Think about who your employees are, what your work environment is like, and what would help to motivate them the best. Then use specific gamification tactics that fit those standards. Gamification also works best when it is implemented 52-weeks a year, as continuous training and learning helps keep your team on their feet year-round. 

Myth #2: Gamification is Just Like Playing a Game

Games are designed to primarily be forms of entertainment with no further outcomes. On the other hand, while gamification shares similar mechanics of games it is meant to address specific real-world challenges with the things that we learn from games.

Gamification is the process of applying game elements into non-game contexts to engage and motivate users by making real-world tasks more fun. 

Games-based learning involves an active learning experience within the framework of a game and is different from gamification.

Myth #3: Gamification Does Not Work Well With Certain Types of Employees

Another common myth is that gamification won’t suit older generations or those who do not like playing video games. Or, that gamification will only suit a niche generation or specific type of learning audience.

Studies have debunked this myth time and time again, and show that gamification can appeal to a wide range of demographics or learner types. It can increase employee engagement regardless of age. 

Gamification taps into universal motivations that all individuals have. Everyone enjoys participating in activities that increase engagement and are enjoyable. While it’s true that not everyone will enjoy playing video games, gamification is not just about playing games. Again, it is about using the right gaming mechanics applied to non-game environments.

Using the right game elements will help trigger the release of our feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin. These hormones help boost our mood and keep us motivated on a task for longer periods of time. 

This means that the problem to address is not whether or not gamification will appeal to a certain type of employee, but rather how you can properly strategize the use of gamification to suit your target users. 

It’s best to get to know your audience before you start to plan out your gamification strategy. 

Myth #4: Gamification Can Solve Any Engagement Issues

The reality is most gamification fails.

Simply throwing in gaming mechanics left and right won’t help boost engagement levels on a training campaign on its own. This is because if the intrinsic value of the content is not realized by the user, then the engagement factor will not improve no matter what you do. 

You will need to go beyond the experience and application of gamification methods to make your training content more appealing and compelling for the learner. Again, it’s important to understand your employees, their needs and what their intrinsic motivators are.

Myth #5: Gamification is Just a Trend

Gamification has been part of society for a while, but we are just now seeing it gain popularity and recognition in many different sectors. The misconception that gamification is a gimmick is actually hurting far more than it is helping. Top competitors strive to incorporate gaming elements into their office practices, onboarding and training methods, leaving behind those who don’t adapt in the dust while they enjoy increased productivity and engagement.

Even before the use of technology, gameplay mechanics have been used to help students grasp educational concepts for years. For example, when learning a new language, game mechanics are often used in the classroom to help improve memory recall. 

Now, as gaming technology, mobile devices and applications become ever more integrated within society, it only makes sense that gamification will continue to grow as a motivational tool used to engage users. 

Debunk Gamification Myths with 1Huddle

If you’re looking to debunk some gamification myths at your workplace, there are many gamified training platforms out there that are specially designed to help you. 

At 1Huddle, we offer cloud-based employee gamification software that can easily adapt to any employee training or gamification strategy you want to implement at your workplace. You can customize your content for a seamless experience and all of your employees will be able to access their training anywhere, anytime and at the push of a button. You can use our game platform to measure their performance and make key decisions on where you should take your gamification strategy next. 
Do you want to learn more about how 1Huddle can help you level up your own workforce? Request a demo today.