Costs
The cost of training software varies widely depending on the program and company. Some basic VR training simulators can be purchased as a game from platforms such as Steam. Other programs must be purchased as a proprietary product from a company that charges monthly subscription fees. The latter would be exponentially expensive. However, a subscription would offer consistent updates and technical support. Additionally, with access to technology becoming more available, the prices for hardware/software will continue to decrease. Professional grade programs may be too costly for public institutions such as schools, but may become a reality in the next few years (COS, 2018).
Examples
According to a 2017 study conducted by Training Magazine, the average cost to train a new employee is around $2000. This does not include cost of materials, tools, or equipment. Therefore, purchasing VR training software must take into account how many employees would benefit from simulation training and what the cost advantages/disadvantages would be.
Games such as VR Crane Master or VR Car Mechanic can be bought from Steam for less than $50 (Steam, 2019). These offer basic introductions into VR simulation training and can act as a starting point for VR 4 Trades Training.
Professional companies such as Serious Labs offers fully immersive training solutions for various trades but can cost upwards of $100,000 depending on package and hardware. They also offer training courses at their facilities for significantly reduced prices (COS, 2018).
Options
With the various hardware and software available, the options are endless. VR can offer preliminary training solutions at minimal cost or large-scale training solutions with full support. Each situation will be different also depending on institution, budget, skilled-trade, and much more. As we see more and more VR training solutions and better technology, the price will continue to decrease and access will continue to broaden.