Gamification in business

Gamification in Business: Why Game Design and Business Students Should Team Up

Malena Rose Career Opportunities, Features, Kouvola

Vol 27, Issue 03, 27 September 2024

Hey XAMK students! In this article I’m especially addressing Business and Game Design students. Have you ever thought about how powerful you could be if you worked together?

Let’s talk about something that’s blending our two worlds: GAMIFICATION!

What is Gamification Anyway?

Imagine taking the best parts of games and using them in everyday business. The very basic core game design principles aren’t just for keeping players hooked – they’re great at keeping customers engaged too.

And that’s where you, the next generation of game designers and business innovators, come in.

So, how exactly does this work in the business world? Let’s look at some examples to show you the potential:

Nike + Run Club

This app tracks your runs, gives you badges for hitting milestones, and lets you compete with friends. They’ve taken fitness, turned it into a game, and boom—people are running (and buying Nike gear) like never before.

Duolingo

Most of us know Duolingo. Especially our internationals who are desperately trying to learn Finnish… Ever wondered why learning a new language on Duolingo feels more like a fun habit than a chore? Thats all because of those streaks, badges, and XP points. Duolingo made learning into a game, and it’s addictive in the best way.

LinkedIn Progress Bar

That “Profile 100% Complete” bar on LinkedIn? It’s a game mechanic. It makes you want to finish your profile and become more active on the platform.

Fitbit Challenges

Fitbit keeps people moving with daily steps challenges, badges, and social competitions. They’ve literally turned health into a game, and it works. People don’t just wear their Fitbits—they challenge their friends, share progress, and stay active. Even some game design students have been working on amazing app ideas for other people’s health! Just check out Nicky’s BackApp for example.

Why You Should Care

You, as a game designer, already know how to craft experiences that make people engaged. Whether it’s creating a virtual world or designing a reward system, your skills are invaluable in business. And business students – well, you’ve got the know-how to make all this fun stuff profitable. Together, you can create something that’s both engaging and successful. Win-win.

So, Why Aren’t We Collaborating More?

Game designers, you know how to hook players. Business students, you understand the strategies behind successful products. But how often do you talk to each other about these things? Not often enough. That’s a missed opportunity!

You’re literally sitting in the same classrooms (or at least the same campus), but often working in totally separate worlds. What if we changed that?

Malena Rose
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