Virtual prototyping of physical space - The value of presence, place and direct communication in prototyping

Abstract: This thesis explores the use of virtual reality as a prototyping tool for designpractitioners to utilize when designing artifacts situated in physical places.Methods used in the study are qualitative and derive from the field ofinteraction design. The topic is explored through literature review on theattributes of virtual reality and sense of place, presented in the theorychapter, and is connected to the empirical research throughout the designprocess chapter. The theories presented strongly indicate that places affecthuman behavior, making them a substantial part of the user experience wheninteracting with designed artifacts in specific locations, which is echoedthough the target audience who voice the need to prototype design conceptsin the context of place. The study culminates in two kinds of virtual realityprototypes, dubbed contextual prototypes, that are suggested to havedifferent use cases depending on what the purpose for prototyping is.