Gamification is really something worth investing but like any other investments, it may have its own pitfalls. In an invention garden, many ideas and strategies are being studied to really determin which is the best one. This is also the case for gamification. You have to have the right strategies.
A business shouldn’t just jump into gamification right away or whenever they just feel like it because it is the trend. The team has to study which one is best suited for the business and what the audience is looking for. The best strategy is always thinking for the long run and testing the waters. Once the business has chosen a gamification tool, they can test it and record which activities work well. There should always be an evaluaton period. Making adjustments is always necessary in order to really capture what works.
Rewards are really exciting for the employees but businesses should not go overboard. This should also be in the budget plan. The company should plan this out very well and intentions should be clear. Rewards should be given to the ones who really deserve. Of course, it is not just about the rewards. At the end of the day, what matters most is the bond built between co-workers and the learning they got from the games and activities. There should always be a balance in terms of rewards and participation.
Another thing about rewards is that is has to be creative. Material rewards are exciting for everyone but the business should always find more meaning rewards and special activities for the employees. This include special dinner with the CEO, invitation to speak or even be selected to represent the company in an international conference. The employees are more proud about these things and this is something they will not forget.
Gamification’s goal is not just about the play. It should reflect the ulimate goal of the company in terms of sales, leadership, marketing and its people. The rules of the game should always be centered in driving new leads, developing talents, increasing brand reach and thinking of other great strategies in all aspects of the business.
Be fair to all employees and do not just celebrate and recognize the top performers. Celebrate everyone who participate. Participation and engagement rate are important metrics for the success of your gamification. If many people participated, this means that they like such activities. They will look forward to these activities. They will be motivated and inspired to do more at work because it is not boring and they will feel that they are eing valued. The business will not at all be successful withou its people.
Gamification should have a reporting purpose. Almost everything can be evaluated based on data. Gamification will allow the business to track the performance of each employee and as a whole. This could also determine which activities are effective and what should be maintained. This is an important aspect that the business has to consider.
Bringing gamification to your business or company is always exciting but you should be able to identify your goal first and from there strategize!
