FAQ: Need to Know About Virtual Human Role-Players
Frequently Asked Questions
Simulations
Can you speak to the character (role-player) using the microphone?
Yes! You can speak to the role-player by reading the statement using your computer's microphone, or you can click on statements within the program.
Do you use avatars in your simulations?
We use human actors to best capture the nuances of tone of voice, and nonverbal body language, that cannot be replicated by computer-generated avatars. However, we can use our conversation engine with avatars if that would best fit your training needs. For instance, we could use our conversation engine avatars in an immersive 3D environment. We can use avatars for role-players or integrate videos of one into a 3-D environment.
Do you evaluate the learner's tone of voice?
Although we recognize the need to practice the right way to say things, we currently cannot evaluate tone of voice. We do provide learners with professional voice-over recordings of each of the things they can choose to say, so they can hear the proper tone of voice. Additionally, learners who make use of speech recognition can hear their own voice when they replay conversations. They can self-evaluate their tone of voice or receive feedback from peers and instructors.
What will happen if I say something not within the script or misread the statements when using speech recognition?
The speech recognition engine will find the closest match to what you said. If it selects the wrong statement, you can rewind the conversation and try again. If you state something that is not at all in the script, the role-player will either say that he or she does not understand you. In that case, you will have another chance to say something to the character.
Why can't I say anything I want when I talk to the role-player?
Having a rich script with lots of options actually adds to the training value by allowing learners to practice the best things to say, learn from mistakes, and try new conversation strategies. Currently, technology does not support a free-form option. Although we believe in this method of training, we can build a system without prompts if the possible statements are constrained.
Can SIMmersion be used as part of a classroom presentation?
Absolutely. Instructors currently using our systems within a classroom setting will sometimes project a simulation for the whole class to play, or they may show a replay of part of a conversation to illustrate a point. SIMmersion simulations have been used as required coursework for several organizations' internal training.
Do you have conversation simulations that feature more than one character?
Yes. Some of our systems feature multiple characters.
Can I learn communication skills in another language?
SIMmersion is translating some of our existing English systems into Spanish. Custom systems can be built in desired languages upon request.
Business
We would like to partner with your company on a grant. Who do we contact?
Please contact us and we will connect you with one of our proposal writers.
Where can I find your available career opportunities?
Please take a look at our employment page
Can off-the-shelf systems be modified to fit customer needs?
Yes. Pricing and delivery time depend on the amount of customization. Please contact us for more information.
What is the timeframe to develop a custom system?
This will depend on the size of the custom training system as well as your specific needs. Please contact us for more information.
What are your current government contract vehicles?
We have several avenues for government contracting, including adding to a partner contract or taking advantage of SIMmersion's work through the Small Business Innovative Research Grants, where a sole source justification is not required. Learn more about Contracting Vehicles.
What differentiates you from competitors?
We provide the most realistic conversation simulations with the most lifelike characters. Our engaging training promotes hours of practice with a new experience each time the software is used. Learn more about why you should select us .
Is your technology patented?
Yes, we have three U.S. patents and one international patent for our non-branching conversation technology, called PeopleSim®, and our proprietary software. Learn more about our technology.
Technical Requirements
What are your minimum system requirements?
Most training is delivered directly through your web browser. In most cases, all you need is a computer with a broadband Internet connection. For best speech recognition performance, Google Chrome is preferred.
Can you deliver your software as a desktop install?
Yes. Windows and Mac OS installs are available upon request. Please note that there may be an additional charge.
How can I access your training programs online?
The Training Center is where you can find all of our available training. You can try some of our sample training systems for free without a login or registering, or you can register for access to more of our training systems.
Will the size of the software slow my computer down a lot?
No.
Does SIMmersion work on my phone?
Yes, SIMmersion software is fully compatible with most major desktop PCs, tablets, and phones.
Demonstration
How can I get a demo training system?
You can try one of our free online training systems by using our Training Center or you can contact us for more options.
How do I arrange a brief for my company?
Contact us with your information.
Purchasing
How do I purchase one of your training systems?
You can see some of our off-the-shelf commercial products by visiting our Training Center. Please contact us for more information about the purchasing options.
I saw a training system on your website that will fit my company's needs perfectly. Why can't I purchase it?
Many of our training systems have been built for private clients and they have the rights to those systems. We can make another similar system to fit your specific training needs. Please contact us to see how we can benefit your organization.
Do we own the system once we purchase it?
There are several purchasing options. Our contracting is flexible to fit your specific needs. Please contact us for more information.
Do you have an annual license fee renewal schedule?
License renewals, as well as charges, are on a schedule best suited to your organization. Learn more about purchasing options and licensing or contact us for more complete information.
Technical Help
What should I do if I encounter a technical error?
Please contact us through our website, or through the "Report a Problem" link to the far right within the training system.
