Implementation of augmented reality technology for computer supported collaborative work

Abstract: Rapid developments in computer and wireless communication technology have led to the proposition of a 4th industrial revolution. With the wireless communication capabilities of emerging technologies, cyber-physical-systems aim to connect people, objects, and services in the internet of things. A research field within this development is computer supported collaborative work. One particular technology used to achieve this is augmented reality. It allows the augmentation of additional digital information into a perceived real environment. Adopting an innovation or technology does not always produce the desired benefits for companies. In many cases a technology is adopted, but not implemented sufficiently. This dilemma creates an interesting starting point for research. The emerging technology of augmented reality is therefore an adequate object to be studied in the context of implementation of a new technology or innovation. The aim of this study is to describe and analyse characteristics of the implementation of an augmented reality remote collaboration technology in the adaptation stage. From existing theory, a model is developed that contains the four categories obstacles, incentives, support factors, and expected benefits. This model is applied to empirical data to identify factors that fall into the corresponding categories and to analyse how they influence the implementation process of the studied technology. Data is gathered from empirical illustrations originating from different sources of evidence as a bricolage. Empirical data is first classified with the developed model and then interpreted with singular and comprehensive analysis to conjoin the insights. The findings indicate that the two factors perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use play a central role in supporting the innovation implementation process, as well as in discrepancies of perception that occur between management and users. In the perception of ease of use, scalability and the characteristics of the conducted task itself play a central role. Regarding the context of industry 4.0, availability of internet connectivity, a passive stance towards obstacles, and EU data secrecy legislation are the biggest obstacles. Another important relationship has been discovered between financial resources availability, training, and the development of skills and knowledge for innovation use. Furthermore, it was found that a high learning curve supports the effectiveness of training measures. Expected benefits are mainly of economic character.