Why Training Agencies Are Turning to Licensed Simulations for Their Clients
In the competitive world of corporate training, one approach is rapidly becoming the gold standard: licensed simulations. These pre-built, interactive learning tools are helping training agencies deliver impactful results for their clients in a way that traditional methods can no longer match. But what makes licensed simulations so compelling? Let’s explore why this approach is gaining traction and revolutionising how organisations develop their talent.
The Growing Demand for Licensed Simulations
Licensed simulations replicate real-world scenarios, allowing learners to practise and refine skills in a controlled yet immersive environment. They are particularly appealing in industries where experiential learning is critical. Whether it’s mastering leadership skills, improving customer service, or tackling complex problem-solving, simulations create a safe space for participants to learn by doing.
But the appeal of simulations goes beyond engagement. A recent study by PwC found that employees trained using virtual simulations could complete tasks four times faster than those trained through traditional methods. This efficiency and impact make simulations a valuable asset for training agencies looking to offer modern, results-driven solutions.
Why Training Agencies Are Making the Shift
1. Faster Implementation for Diverse Needs
Licensed simulations save training agencies from the hassle of creating bespoke programmes from scratch. These tools come ready-made but are customisable, allowing agencies to tailor them to different industries and organisational challenges.
For example, a retail management simulation can be adapted for client-specific scenarios like inventory handling or team coordination. This scalability ensures agencies can serve multiple clients without compromising on quality or relevance.
2. Authentic and Relevant Learning
Unlike generic training modules, licensed simulations are often built in collaboration with industry experts, ensuring they mirror the realities of the workplace. This authenticity gives participants the confidence to translate what they learn into real-world results.
For instance, in sales training, simulations might mimic high-pressure client negotiations. Participants experience realistic objections and decision-making scenarios, giving them a taste of real challenges in a controlled environment.
3. Measurable Outcomes for Clients
One standout feature of licensed simulations is their ability to generate detailed performance analytics. These insights allow agencies to track learner progress and pinpoint areas for improvement.
For clients, this means training outcomes aren’t abstract—they’re measurable. Metrics like problem-solving efficiency, leadership decision-making quality, or sales conversion rates can be analysed to prove the ROI of training initiatives.
4. Boosting Engagement and Retention
Simulations are inherently engaging. Learners aren’t passive recipients of information; they’re active participants in scenarios that test their skills and adaptability. This hands-on approach leads to significantly higher retention rates.
Research from CIPD highlights that learners retain up to 70% of skills practised in simulations compared to just 20% from traditional instruction. This makes simulations particularly valuable in high-stakes environments like finance, healthcare, and leadership training.
Applications Across Industries
The versatility of licensed simulations is another key reason for their growing popularity. They are being successfully deployed in a wide range of fields:
- Financial Services: Risk management simulations enable participants to practise decision-making under pressure, improving accuracy and confidence.
- Leadership Development: Leaders practise handling team dynamics, resolving conflicts, and making strategic decisions in a safe, feedback-rich environment.
- Sales Training: Simulations allow sales teams to rehearse pitches, navigate objections, and sharpen their negotiation skills.
- Early Career Programmes: New hires, such as graduates and apprentices, can quickly develop critical skills like client communication and time management through scenario-based learning.
What’s Next for Simulation-Based Training?
The next frontier for simulations is the integration of AI and virtual reality. AI-driven simulations are becoming smarter, adapting to each learner’s decisions to provide personalised challenges and feedback. Similarly, VR technologies are adding an unprecedented level of immersion, allowing participants to experience lifelike environments, whether it’s a trading floor or a customer service desk.
In addition, gamification is being incorporated into simulations to make training even more engaging. Leaderboards, challenges, and rewards are turning learning into a motivating, competitive experience—ideal for fostering team collaboration and healthy competition.
Why It Matters
For training agencies, adopting licensed simulations isn’t just about following a trend—it’s about meeting client expectations in a fast-changing corporate world. Businesses today demand training that delivers tangible results, adapts to specific needs, and keeps learners engaged. Licensed simulations tick all these boxes and more.
The shift to simulations represents more than a change in tools—it’s a transformation in the way people learn. By placing participants in realistic scenarios, licensed simulations bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, helping learners develop skills they can use immediately.
How MDA Training Can Help
What We Do
At MDA Training, we are experts in delivering experiential learning solutions designed to empower organisations and their people. With over 25 years of experience, we specialise in crafting innovative training programmes that align with our clients’ strategic goals. Our approach focuses on creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that drive measurable behavioural change, improve performance, and prepare teams for real-world challenges.
Our Simulations
One of our flagship offerings is our immersive simulations, which replicate real-world scenarios in a controlled environment. These simulations are tailored to meet the specific needs of industries such as banking, insurance, professional services, and manufacturing. They cover a wide range of training needs, including leadership development, client management, decision-making, and onboarding.
By providing participants with lifelike situations, our simulations ensure they can practise critical skills, learn from their decisions, and immediately apply these lessons in the workplace. This hands-on approach enhances engagement, retention, and results—making training more impactful and valuable.
Licensing Solutions
In addition to delivering tailored training programmes, MDA Training offers licensed simulations for organisations and training agencies looking for scalable, ready-to-use solutions. These pre-built simulations can be customised to align with specific business needs, saving valuable time and resources while ensuring relevance and authenticity.
Whether you need a bespoke programme or a licensed solution, our team collaborates closely with clients to ensure the training delivers real results.
Get in Touch
If you're ready to transform your training programmes with innovative, simulation-based learning solutions, MDA Training is here to help. Whether you’re looking to upskill your workforce, enhance early careers programmes, or implement licensed simulations for your clients, we’ve got you covered. Let’s create impactful learning experiences together.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your organisation’s training needs.