Gap Inc. Active Threat Simulation
Background Info
Gap Inc. identified the need for a standardized, scalable training format to prepare personnel for a broad spectrum of emergency threats across its retail, corporate, and distribution facilities. For example, according to Statista, in 2023 the United States recorded over 1.8 million assaults involving personal weapons such as hands, fists, or feet, and 149,766 incidents involving handguns. While violent assaults represent one type of emergency, other threats such as fires, accidents, or external hazards can be equally disruptive – underscoring the need for a universal training approach.
Program-Ace was engaged to develop an interactive simulation that is accessible via both desktop and mobile browsers. The solution adheres to the "Run. Hide. Fight." methodology, providing users with first-person, scenario-based training that mirrors real-world conditions. The objective was to support rapid decision-making under stress, reinforce proper response procedures, and enable practical skill development through structured digital practice.
Program-Ace has developed a 3D drill simulation to reinforce key response actions for active threat scenarios in retail, distribution, and office environments. The simulation was built from scratch and was capable of integration with our internal LMS and providing actionable data based on user results.
The team sourced and developed all assets, environments, project plans, cost structure, implementation and integration, and localization. Program-Ace also presented options, structure, framework, and guidance.
We have 5–6 teammates from Program-Ace, including an incredible project manager and analyst.
Project management is a strength for the team at Program-Ace. Most delays were due to our team not having the capabilities or skillsets required to hurdle technology integration. Program-Ace identified obstacles while also learning with us. We primarily communicate via email and Zoom.
Business Challenges
Approach and Solution
Gap Inc. needed a training format that would help employees practice how to respond to an active threat, using environments and situations that reflected their actual workplaces. We developed a first-person simulation delivered through a web browser, structured around the "Run. Hide. Fight." model and adapted to three facility types: retail stores, corporate offices, and distribution centers.
- Environment-specific design. Each version was based on a typical floor plan, with attention to room layout, lighting, and realistic points of entry and cover.
- First-person view. Employees moved through the space from their own perspective, building familiarity with the surroundings while responding under pressure.
- Interactive decisions. Users were asked to act at key moments, such as locking a door or finding a hiding place. Feedback was immediate and clearly tied to outcomes, helping customers to hide.
- Threat variations. The scenario does not specify the type of threat – it could be a robbery, terrorist act, shooting, fire, accident, or other critical event. Employees only know whether the danger is inside or outside the facility, and must react accordingly.
- Device compatibility. Our simulation ran on desktop and mobile browsers, removing technical barriers to access across the organization.
- Unified structure. While the content adapted to each facility type, the logic of progression remained the same, supporting consistent delivery and reporting.
- Outcome-based scoring. Users receive points based on the efficiency of the decisions they make.
- Time constraints. Scenarios included built-in timing to reflect real urgency and develop fast, confident decision-making.
- Real-life scenarios in simulation. Simulations provide employees with the opportunity to practice crucial decisions in high-pressure situations. Possible responses include running to the exit, running to the exit while assisting others, hiding inside the facility, hiding outside the facility, confronting the threat directly, calling for help from colleagues, or contacting the police.
The solution helped Gap Inc. strengthen emergency preparedness across all sites while keeping delivery practical, accessible, and grounded in everyday environments.
Technology Stack
Audience
Value Delivered
- Employees practiced reacting to unfolding threats in spaces modeled after their own stores, offices, or warehouses, which improved recognition, timing, and decision accuracy.
- The training created consistency across teams by using one framework to guide behavior in very different environments without diluting the content.
- Rolling out the training required no equipment purchases or scheduling adjustments, which kept costs low and participation high.
- Facility-specific layouts made the content more believable and relevant, which helped employees remember the right actions when tested.
- The simulation ran smoothly across personal and shared devices, reducing technical overhead and support needs across departments.
- The project gave Gap Inc. a universal format that already covers multiple emergency scenarios, without the need to define a specific threat type.
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