Innovating training, together: The future of conflict resolution with IKON and Revolve Labs

Written by Louise Ballard, IKON Training Operations Director

At IKON Training, our mission has always been to empower learners with practical, impactful tools to navigate real-world challenges. Over the years, we’ve embraced innovative approaches to deliver training that is not only engaging and relevant but also transformative.

A key milestone in this journey began in 2021 when we partnered with Revolve Labs, a local company renowned for its expertise in digital innovation.

Our initial collaboration centred on optimising delivery mechanisms and pedagogical techniques to enhance our clients’ and learners’ digital learning experiences. Together, we transformed our online training platform, IKON Live, creating a more dynamic and engaging learning environment. This partnership elevated the quality of our digital training and laid the foundation for our current project: using virtual reality (VR) to develop immersive Conflict Resolution Training (CRT) scenarios.

From optimising digital learning to real-world scenarios

Fast forward to today, and our collaboration with Revolve Labs has reached new heights. This time, we focus on creating real-world scenarios that empower learners to feel confident when faced with challenging behaviour.

Through immersive VR experiences, learners engage in branching scenarios that adapt to their choices, mirroring the unpredictable nature of real-life conflict.

Our approach is simple but powerful: to allow learners to practice handling difficult situations in a safe, controlled environment while gaining a deeper understanding of how their decisions influence outcomes. With Revolve Labs’ technical expertise and IKON’s deep training experience, we are transforming traditional learning methods into an engaging, interactive journey.

Why VR matters: Personalised, immersive learning

Traditional training often relies on static protocols and one-size-fits-all approaches. However, real-world conflict resolution requires flexibility, empathy, and real-time problem-solving. That’s where VR can make all the difference.

Through branching pathways, learners experience the ripple effects of their decisions. For instance, a de-escalation attempt may lead to a resolution, while a more direct approach could escalate tensions. This feedback loop allows learners to see, feel, and understand the consequences of their actions, boosting their confidence and adaptability in high-pressure scenarios.

A shared vision of innovation

At the core of this collaboration is a shared vision. IKON Training brings decades of expertise in workplace dynamics and conflict management, while Revolve Labs contributes cutting-edge technical capabilities and a passion for innovation. Together, we are creating immersive, adaptable training solutions across industries from healthcare and social services to retail and corporate settings.

By working alongside students and utilising facilities like XR Labs, we are tapping into the next generation’s creativity, ensuring our solutions are as forward-thinking as the challenges they are designed to address.

Looking ahead: The future of VR Training at IKON

As we continue filming and refining our VR scenarios, we remain focused on a single goal: creating immersive, impactful training tailored to the unique needs of diverse teams and industries.

This project is more than a technical innovation; it represents a new chapter in approaching learning, development, and conflict resolution. We aim to build a workforce with the confidence, empathy, and resilience needed to navigate today’s complex working environments by harnessing VR’s power.

Stay tuned as we document this journey in our blog series, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, project updates, and reflections on the future of training.

Together with Revolve Labs, we’re not just innovating. We’re redefining what’s possible.

Follow our journey as we continue to explore the partnership between technology and training. Discover how IKON Training and Revolve Labs are creating transformative learning experiences together.

Written by Louise Ballard, IKON Operations Director