NGRAIN is an electronic training development company which specializes in 3D simulation technologies. More specifically, NGRAIN has focused on equipment training programs, virtual task training and maintenance support systems using interactive equipment simulations.
Many of their products and services take the form of interactive, explodeable 3D representations of complex machinery and equipment such as aircraft engines, military weapons or off-shore oil rigs. Their goals are to accelerate training, increase first-time performance, minimize downtime, streamline operations and optimize worker performance in general.
Face 1 – Market Type
To date NGRAIN has focused on the training needs of government, military and corporate training needs. NGRAIN’s customers include all branches of the United States and Canadian militaries, as well as leading manufacturers such as Lockheed Martin, Standard Aero, Northrop Grumman, and CAE.
Face 2 – Type of Offering
NGRAIN’s focus is to provide consulting, designing and development services to their clients. They create 3D training solutions by consulting with the client and designing models, applications and courses that are deliverable over average computer systems as opposed to custom or expensive workstations.
Although the creation of custom models and application is where they began, NGRAIN has also developed a number of “off-the-shelf” solutions that can be implemented with simple technical and training data provided by the customer.
Face 3 – Who is the buyer?
NGRAIN’s business model is based on a corporation or government entity purchasing the content for the learner.
Face 4 – Global Market
NGRAIN has focused on two global markets: wired Anglophone countries and special (military/maritime) situations. They have had no major issues reaching these markets and have made significant progress in the North American Market both in the private and public sector.
Face 5 – Market Development
I would say that the market NGRAIN caters to is highly developed. Large Western corporations, military and government agencies are among some of the earliest adopters of educational technology used for training. This market is not only well established but has fairly deep pockets and the justification for accurate, high-quality training such as 3D simulations and interactive scenarios. The potential costs of downtime in these markets are often very large and extend beyond the financial to include the safety and well-being of those trained.
Face 6 – Learning Technology Integration
NGRAIN focuses on content development but has made strides in meshing their content with established learning systems. Many of their materials are designed to fit within established learning management systems or be delivered along with traditional training methods.
This company does not wish to replace traditional training methods such as hands-on time with equipment, traditional class-based learning or on-the-job training but provide a new, supplemental view of equipment and tasks which is unavailable any other way.
