Expanding applications of virtual reality in construction industry: A multiple case study approach

Özet

Recent developments in the Virtual Reality (VR) have positively affected the way design and construction parties understand, revise, and complete building projects. VR offers unique capabilities such as stepping into a 3D model of the building during early design stages and maneuvering with interactive features in the virtual environment. With these opportunities, designers, contractors, and owners can now share data and make crucial decisions even before the model is implemented at the construction site. A variety of applications and uses of VR are possible for contractors, yet the detailed analysis of key enablers and challengers from general contractors’ (GC) perspective is missing. This study aims to perform a detailed review of VR applications in the construction industry by conducting a multiple case study approach. Data collection was performed on twenty-seven (27) case studies from eighteen (18) construction companies in the U.S. to report the uses and benefits of VR in the construction industry from GCs’ perspective. Findings revealed the main uses of VR as design reviews for clients and occupants, project coordination, monitoring the construction process, and training. The greatest value of the VR technology was reported as decreasing cost, optimizing schedules, streamlining the occupant-related decision process, and enhancing collaboration. All companies have been using immersive VR technology, which showed their investment and commitment to this emerging technology and its benefits in the construction industry. Future studies are planned to compare applications of VR in academia vs. in construction industry to close the gap of knowledge between educators and practitioners.