Specsavers partners with Sponge to use online induction

Staff and partners joining Specsavers will be able to earn a virtual coin to donate to charity in a new online induction course.

The international optical and hearing business will make a real money donation to charity in proportion to the virtual coins earned by employees who complete the induction training.

The innovative online course has been created for Specsavers by award-winning elearning company, Sponge.

The module is being rolled out across 15 countries including the UK and will form part of the company’s induction programme for all new recruits.

Simon Poole-Anderson, Global Learning Technologies Consultant at Specsavers, said:

“We selected Sponge after a vigorous selection process, and found them to be great partners in assimilating our creative and technical direction. Sponge also provided strong project management which ensured we landed the project on time, on budget and to the desired quality. They were essential in developing this progressive learning technology intervention with us. We’ve had wholly positive feedback from our global stakeholders and we’re confident that it will provide a positive and impactful welcome to our new starters.”

During the module, new joiners explore an animated map of the world which includes video clips of senior managers talking about the company’s global activities.

The induction course helps learners understand Specsavers’ values, goals and brand and reinforces knowledge about the company with authentic scenario questions.

Those who complete the module can select one of three Specsavers’ partner charities to donate their virtual coin to, Sightsavers, Vision Aid Overseas or The Fred Hollows Foundation.

Louise Pasterfield, Managing Director of Sponge, said:

“Specsavers set out to push the boundaries of online induction and the company should be applauded for its commitment to innovation. Linking charitable giving to the induction process is not only a strong motivator to help people engage with the training but also underlines the importance the company places on giving back to communities. We’ve worked closely with Specsavers to use the latest learning technologies to incorporate animation, video and a high degree of interactivity to really bring this induction module to life.”

The online training can be completed by Specsavers employees and partners either during the first few days of their new job or before they take up a new position.

The module covers all aspects of the business including stores, manufacturing, distribution and back office.

Rob Foster, Global Head of Learning Technologies at Specsavers, said:

“Our online induction course is intended to confirm to new starters that they’ve made a great choice in choosing Specsavers as their next employer. Likewise, we believe we made a great choice in choosing Sponge as our partner to help us develop this innovative learning solution.”

Around 5,000 people are expected to complete the module in 2016.

Sponge has worked with a wide range of organisations on induction elearning projects including Toyota, United Nations OCHA, United Biscuits and Sports Direct.