Affordable 3D VR Technology for Sensible Design －An Approach to Designing an End-User Oriented Service Space

Today’s Virtual Reality(VR) technology has become considerably more affordable and sophisticated with rapidly advancing computer technology. Photo-realistic visual representations along with real-time interactivity are now achievable without special programing knowledge and expensive equipment. The purpose of this paper is to establish how simple, credible user testing methods based on VR simulations can be utilized to improve design decision making towards more sensible design solutions for end-users. Results of a case study demonstrate the value of potential user-testing feedback in a simulated 3D virtual service space, i.e., restaurant interior. User feedback from the VR simulation includes preferences in table location, privacy, and values of seating preferred tables. A new design framework incorporating an empirical testing method for service spaces is presented. The overall design process, the development of the VE, and the user testing method and findings are discussed. This study provides useful guidances for future efforts in the areas where such technology may benefit to understand end-user feedbacks in design process.