End-users' augmented reality utilization for architectural design review

Abstract

To effectively use augmented reality (AR) technology for end-user involved design collaboration, it is necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the AR system from the end-user's perspective. However, most efforts have mainly focused on technological development, and as such, limited attention has been paid to the end-user's application of the AR system. Therefore, this study investigates how the AR system affects architectural design review based on the user's perspectives. Three different display systems presenting a 3D model including a 2D screen, VR, and AR were tested, and a total of 76 participants evaluated visual presentation quality, perceived acceptability, and user experience according to their usage of the visualization platform types during the design review activities. Compared to other systems, the results indicated that the AR system could be more effective in reviewing the visual elements of a building. Furthermore, AR showed the highest ratings for acceptance level and user experience. The innovation provided by AR created a positive user experience, despite its remaining challenges to be resolved in terms of functionality. Since it is expected that the use of AR can be promoted by overcoming certain technological limitations, this study contributes to guiding AR system applications for end-users involved in the design review process.