# Gamified Training Apps The Walmart Spark City App Challenges Trainees in a Virtual Retail Setting By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2019-01-28 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/walmart-spark-city References: [retailgazette](https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2019/01/walmart-employees-now-trained-video-game/) & [play.google](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.walmart.sparkCity&hl=en) From augmented reality manuals to virtual reality training programs, companies are turning to technology to better prepare employees for their role in the workplace, as well as some of the unexpected challenges that they may encounter—this is exemplified by the Walmart Spark City app. The application, which has been made publically available for both iOS and Android devices, uses a gamified format to prep all new employees through Walmart's training academy. In Spark City, users are challenged to maximize the availability of products, keep the sales floor clean, complete the daily duties of a manager and practice problem-solving in real-time when it comes to facing tough situations. The Walmart Spark City app scores users based on inventory, customer satisfaction and sales, and more levels are being planned for roles in different store departments. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 70% | Activity: 79% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Augmented Reality Manuals:** Opportunity to enhance employee training by providing step-by-step instructions through augmented reality. - **Virtual Reality Training Programs:** Disruptive innovation in training by allowing employees to practice real-life scenarios in a virtual environment. - **Gamified Learning:** Using game-like elements to engage and motivate employees in the training process. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Retail:** Retailers can adopt gamified training apps to improve employee engagement, knowledge retention, and sales performance. - **Technology:** Innovative technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality have a growing market in the training industry to enhance learning experiences. - **Education:** Educational institutions can leverage the gamification trend in employee training to make learning more interactive and enjoyable. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [AR-Powered Retail Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/augmented-reality-feature.md) - [AR-Powered Shopping Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/walmart-5.md) - [Employee VR Training Practices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/talespin.md) - [AI-Powered Retailer App Assistants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/walmart-ask-sparky.md) - [Virtual Skill Simulators](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wiseworld.md) - [Employee Task Applications](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/home-depot.md) - [Donut-Making AR Trainings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chewco-mochi-donut.md) - [AI-Powered Employee Training Services](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/virtualspeech-ai.md) - [Gamified Fitness Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tae-bo-reboot-app.md)