Is Gamification the Answer to Employee Motivation?

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Many business owners want to motivate employees for better productivity but lack the knowledge how to do it effectively.  This, however, might become easier for managers in future as some businesses now contemplate using gamification to motivate employees while others already successfully implemented this. 

What is gamification?  Gamification uses game elements such as rewards or badges to reward online users for using a specific service or purchasing a particular product.  In this way users feel appreciated while some might even aspire to gain more rewards.  Game elements also engage users and add a human element to an otherwise impersonal environment.

How can gamification be used in a business environment?  First of all the right software should be obtained and installed on all employees' computers.  Once all employees are registered on the system,  the games can begin.  A good point of departure is for all the other employees to see each others' accolades.  Accolades could be awarded for punctuality, meeting deadlines, solving problems in the business, completing surveys, not taking sick leave or leadership positions, etc. Employees could, for example, earn rewards such as a day off when they reach a specific level or number of points. The possibilities are endless.  By using gaming elements, employees could strive to obtain more accolades than their colleagues or feel proud to be recognised for meeting deadlines or other work-related accomplishments.   Another great advantage of gamification is that employees would  be able to learn more about the business  by engaging in tasks or processes which they otherwise would not have done.  Many young people are used to playing games and would excel in a game-like working environment.

You might also be interested in my article how gamification can be beneficial for marketing.