These days, gamification is a commonly used tool to encourage engagement and to motivate users, players, or workers. Typically, it’s used in apps to encourage completing tasks or making progress. But there are ways to do this in a more physical sense in the office too. Of course, it’s possible to use sensible and useful apps within the employee network to help the gamification process as well. And when it comes to this type of software, then SaaS Genius is a great advisor regarding which to use. So, let’s dive in.
Outline the Goals
Whether you opt for a physical, software-based, or hybrid gamification of your office, the first step is always the goals. You need to determine what it is you wish to achieve through this gamification process. This can be anything from improved communication, an increase in sales, faster project turnaround, better quality control, or more sophisticated safety practices. Whatever it is, the next step is to ensure that the game mechanics align with the objectives of the company.
What to Implement
For gamification, there are a range of different features you can implement to get things off the ground. A simple points system is a good place to start. These can be awarded for completing tasks, reaching specific goals and so on. Depending on the way you are operating this, there can be a physical scoreboard, or one online using various software options to keep track. Of course, using an online gamification system to keep track usually makes it easier for employees to then level up. Earning badges, stickers, stars, or something of that sort can also promote and motivate the behaviors you want to see in the workplace, keeping the competition healthy and involved. Streak challenges, such as those found on Duolingo, are also popular.
Making it more of a competition can also be a fun way to get the whole office involved. Again, this can be in physical or online form. Challenges and goals can be introduced to encourage friendly competition. Make sure that these challenges are not fully pitting your team against one another in a toxic or aggressive way. Rather encourage friendly rivalries with the possibility of prizes as an added incentive. 
And speaking of rewards, this is often the most crucial part of gamifying an office. These rewards need to have value to encourage employees to work toward getting them. They can include gift certificates, time off, recognition, and so on. Team rewards are also a good option when it comes to encouraging better teamwork, and also shows that recognition is given to those teams who work hard. This could be a small celebration party or personalized awards that make the achievement feel truly special. For example, presenting a corporate crystal trophy to the best team creates a lasting, eye-catching reminder of their success—something that builds pride and keeps everyone inspired.
What to Use Gamification For
Gamification can be introduced across a wide array of office areas too. It doesn’t just have to be for everyday tasks. For instance, gamification can also be introduced during the training or onboarding sessions. Skill-up sessions can be a great gamified learning experience, and can help employees unlock new skills as they progress through the training sessions. Gamification can also be used to improve wellness, focusing on physical activity, mindfulness, and even healthy eating in the workplace.
In addition to improving the way the team and individuals work, adding fun gamification elements to the office can also foster a more engaging environment to work in. This then means that the team works better together. Of course, it should always be voluntary to participate, which means that the employees will be motivated to join and improve rather than being forced to join in. It’s also important to assess the efficacy of the gamification to see if it’s actually working.
Remember, while some workers will find gamification fun, it may stress others out. Some staff don’t like leaderboards or competitions, so it’s worth checking in with the staff first to see what kind of gamification they would like to participate in. That being said, studies show that around 90% of staff think that gamification would get them to perform better at work. Over 85% said they would learn and use software more effectively if the process was gamified.
As such, there are many benefits to the gamification process. Yes, it will take some time to implement, and there can be downsides. But overall, in terms of fostering an engaging, happy environment, gamification does appear to work.
