ETRAIN Interactive – Engaging and effective training solutions for capital intensive industries

Training has become an integral part of the workplace.  Increased Occupational Health & Safety requirements, together with a growing need for highly skilled labour, have seen an increase in demand for quality training.

For industries such as mining and construction, traditional learning in classrooms is ineffective and costly.   To reduce costs, companies are increasingly turning to eLearning. However, the market is saturated with text-based solutions that provide an incomplete solution.  “With capital-intensive, location-based industries such as mining, it is critical that learners can implement their learning from day one.  Text-based training, particularly in the trades and technical area, cannot assure that learners are adequately equipped to do this.” said Managing Director and Founder of ETRAIN Interactive, Mathew Balic, who counts leading companies such as Barrick Gold, News Limited, and the Australian Government as clients.

Interactive 3D based training

ETRAIN Interactive has developed training simulations that do not rely on text and audio to get the message across. Instead, participants learn through tactile and visual engagement. “This creates better outcomes as participants learn by ‘doing’, continued Mr Balic.

“Our key point of difference with other training simulation companies is that we have a comprehensive suite of online training simulations available on subscription. For companies it means that simulation-based training can be delivered cost-effectively, anywhere there is a computer with internet access. For the equivalent price of a traditional eLearning module, our training simulations can deliver better, more skills-based learning outcomes than traditional eLearning.”

Industry-focused solution

The technical expertise required in mining and construction means that quality training is highly valued.  Personnel may need to upgrade their knowledge of tools and equipment as well as OH&S.  “As technology specialists, our team works closely with customers to create ‘next generation’ training by exploiting the latest in hardware & software to deliver innovative, flexible, and visually rich solutions.”

ETRAIN assists companies to improve their training outcomes and improve efficiencies.  A total of 250 courses in Minerals Drilling, Onshore Oil and Gas Drilling, Automotive, Construction and Carpentry will be completed by Q3 FY 2015.

By making this training available online, companies can deliver training on-demand, and reduce the need for face-to-face contact hours.  Results are outcome based with testing integrated into the training. Modules are aligned to the highly-regarded Australian Qualifications Framework to ensure that the training can be accredited.

Subscription-based model changes the game

ETRAIN Interactive is perfectly positioned to disrupt the training industry with the introduction of subscription-based 3D training simulations.  “Two years of dedicated research and development by ETRAIN has led to the development of proprietary software and processes that enable simulations to be developed at a low cost.”

The system is based on a SaaS licence fee model and ensures a repeatable revenue stream. For ETRAIN it creates a highly scaleable product with high profit margins.  It is this positioning that has shown to be attractive for corporates signing up to become clients, and investors looking to invest in the rapidly growing online training industry.

ETRAIN’s gamification of training is poised to gain new participants quickly.  The outcome for companies?  Greater assurance that the training they’re paying for will deliver a return on investment. And for the next generations of learners? A more flexible, relevant and engaging way to learn.