Success Story
From innovation to scale – HORNBACH implements VR in their security training
HORNBACH is one of the leading operators of DIY stores and garden centers in nine European countries. The retailer is known for its extensive range of building materials, tools and garden supplies and offers everything DIY and commercial customers need to realize their projects.
The project: a comprehensive approach to security training
HORNBACH has implemented Virtual Reality in its information security department to improve corporate learning and onboarding, specifically to provide the team with an engaging and immersive way to train employees in data security.
The VR-based security training was developed to educate new employees across HORNBACH’s markets during onboarding. Using a hero-vs-antagonist storyline inspired by real employees, the training emphasized the importance of data security and the risks of negligence.
Employees explore several key locations where sensitive information is at risk. At each site, they can identify and find security threats by themselves before a resolution offering clear guidance on how to prevent them is introduced. Using interactive hotspots, the journey is enriched with engaging media to ensure a memorable and instructive experience for all users.
Production & execution
During the production phase, most elements were filmed on-site with a professional production team from VRdirect. To ensure maximum flexibility and minimal scheduling conflicts for all parties involved, some other elements were filmed separately afterwards. Furthermore, VRdirect provided Hornbach with software onboarding and handover sessions, enabling them to take over and manage the VR project independently.
The initial rollout phase took place in German markets, where employees could experience the training using VR headsets. A web-based version was also made available as an alternative. What started as an innovation project has now become a permanent part of security training, with the information security department officially adopting VR as a core training method.
Improving information security training with VR
Implementing virtual guides: A virtual guide or avatar can explain each risk and teach best practices to avoid it.
Gamification elements: Incorporating challenges, rewards, and progress tracking to increase engagement and motivation in learning security practices.
Scenario-based learning: Through VR users can apply their knowledge in hands-on tasks, reinforcing learning.
Risk discovery: Users explore a virtual environment, encountering security threats (e.g. phishing, weak passwords, unauthorized access).
Through Virtual Reality, security professionals can experience data security threats in a realistic, interactive environment—without facing any real risks.
“What initially started as an idea has evolved into a key element of our safety training after a successful test phase. The VR-based training provides real value to everyone involved.”
Christina Dausch – Project Manager Research and Development, HORNBACH
“The feedback during testing was consistently positive. Our colleagues found the VR training not only informative but also retained the learned content more effectively. Safety aspects become much more tangible as a result – exactly what we aimed to achieve.”
Paul Sester – Chief Information Security Officer, HORNBACH
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