
When we think about physical hazards, we know how dangerous they can be—but what about psychological challenges? A bad decision or a negative emotion can lead to poor actions, which may put the whole team at risk! But here’s the good news: these situations can be identified and improved. In our project, RiskReal, we offer a practical example of how this training works!
About the Project
With RiskReal, we’ve developed an app that evaluates coworkers’ attitudes and skill sets. Each user gets a personalized profile that highlights their strengths and suggests which roles they’re most suited for. For instance, someone who is easily stressed or impatient might not be the best fit for leadership roles!
Beyond that, the app features training modules that focus on theoretical coaching to build essential soft skills, and the start of the project—a Virtual Reality simulator that allows you to practice in real-life scenarios.
What are Soft Skills?
Soft skills are the personal attributes and interpersonal abilities that allow people to work well with others, communicate effectively, and handle challenges in a professional environment. These include skills like communication, empathy, problem-solving, leadership, and emotional intelligence.
Unlike technical or “hard” skills, which are often specific to a job or task, soft skills are universal and can be applied in any workplace. They’re especially important in high-pressure environments like the ones simulated in RiskReal, where effective decision-making, emotional control, and clear communication can be the difference between success and failure.
Some examples of soft skills include:
- Effective communication: Being able to clearly convey ideas and listen actively.
- Teamwork: Collaborating well with others, regardless of personal differences.
- Problem-solving: Quickly and effectively resolving conflicts or challenges.
- Adaptability: Staying calm and flexible in unpredictable situations.
- Empathy: Understanding and relating to the emotions of others, creating a supportive environment.
The Virtual Reality Application
RiskReal features two simulators: one set during a wind turbine maintenance scenario, and another in a more general environment. In both, coworkers can work on improving their soft skills, putting into practice what they’ve learned during the training modules.
For example, during the wind turbine simulation, participants are placed under time pressure while managing a team, testing their leadership and communication skills in a high-stress situation. Meanwhile, the general scenario provides a broader set of challenges, focusing on cooperation, problem-solving, and conflict resolution in a more typical workplace environment.
Why Extended Reality?
Just like with hard skills, soft skills need real-world practice to fully develop. And that’s where Extended Reality truly shines. Extended Reality offers safe, controlled, and immersive environments where users can practice high-stakes scenarios without the fear of real-world consequences. This makes it an ideal tool for building skills like leadership, emotional regulation, and communication.
The high level of immersion in Extended Reality makes it feel incredibly realistic—almost like you’re truly living these situations in your daily life. You can practice how to manage a team under stress, give constructive feedback, or handle a crisis with calm efficiency. These are all essential skills that are hard to practice in real life without creating actual risk.
It’s easy to stay composed in a relaxed setting, but what happens when you’re under pressure? That’s the real test, and Extended Reality helps you face these challenges head-on in a safe environment.
How about you? Do you feel confident in your soft skills? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Keywords
#ExtendedReality #VirtualReality #Training #RiskReal #IndustrialTraining #VR #XR #VirtualSimulator #RiskManagement #SoftSkills #Communication
Cite as:
- XRAI Lab. (2025, January, 13th). Extended Reality to Improve Soft Skills – XRAI Lab. https://xrailab.es/2025/01/13/extended-reality-to-improve-soft-skills/
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