Training MVP Awards Best Practice: VSP Vision’s Engage with Inventory eLearning Simulation

The course applies a show, guide, and test model to help new Altair account executives confidently engage in inventory-related conversations with eyecare practices.

 

MVPawards

VSP Vision launched its Engage with Inventory eLearning Simulation to help new Altair account executives navigate inventory workflows within the company’s STAR inventory management system to confidently engage in inventory-related conversations with eyecare practices. While part of the broader onboarding curriculum, this course was developed as a standalone innovation to deliver targeted, hands-on training in a risk-free environment.

Program Details

Built using Articulate Rise and Storyline (software applications within the Articulate 360 suite), the course applies a show, guide, and test model for long-term learning:

  • Show Mode: Learners see video walkthroughs of key STAR workflows, including how to identify slow-moving eyewear frames and replace them with best sellers, how to add new releases and point-of-purchase (POP) items, and how to create frame board inventory and orders. Artificial intelligence-generated narration reduced development time/cost and maintains high-quality audio for rapid prototyping.
  • Guide Mode: Learners engage in interactive simulations that incorporate step-by-step prompts for decision-making, along with how to take system actions in realistic scenarios.
  • Test Mode: To reinforce knowledge and build confidence, learners complete an assessment that requires an 80-plus-percent pass score.

Immediate feedback is embedded in the simulations and knowledge checks to reinforce correct actions and decision-making. At the end of the course, learners receive a summary of key takeaways and tips for quick reference.

A STAR expert roundtable and reflection activity follows course completion and is facilitated live. Learners present their STAR take-home assessments, get real-time feedback from STAR experts, and engage in open discussion to explore challenges and best practices. This session serves as a refresher and confidence booster before learners begin practice visits.

Results

  • Some 92 percent of managers reported that new hires demonstrated increased confidence and accuracy in STAR inventory tasks during their first 30 days.
  • Learners reported a 40 percent increase in self-rated confidence levels (pre- vs. post-training surveys).
  • Some 95 percent of new hires passed the simulation assessment on their first attempt.
  • STAR order accuracy improved by 18 percent among new hires trained through the course, which reduced rework and improved turnaround time for practices.
  • Practices supported by trained account executives reported a 12 percent improvement in satisfaction with inventory consultations based on post-visit feedback.

Edited by Lorri Freifeld
Lorri Freifeld is the editor/publisher of Training magazine, owned by Lakewood Media Group. She writes on a number of topics, including talent management, training technology, and leadership development. She spearheads two awards programs: the Training MVP Awards and Emerging Training Leaders. A writer/editor for the last 30-plus years, she has held editing positions at a variety of publications and holds a Master’s degree in journalism from New York University.