In order to develop effective VR applications for productivity, we will need to harness existing design characteristics from online platforms such as videoconference (Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Skype) and others like Gathertown, then modify or conceive new possibilities that serve emerging productivity needs. This necessitates that we answer questions regarding design characteristics, as well as engineering aspects of these new virtual environments. For instance:
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Conceptually: What characteristics of existing online collaborative platforms like videoconferencing apps can we transfer to the development of virtual/mixed environments, and why so?
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Technically/Implementation: How would an implementation of an effective virtual/mixed environment for productivity look and function?
These questions can be answered through a review and understanding of current state of the art of visual online collaborative platforms (videoconference) - which will enable an assessment of features that might transfer to VR/XR - followed by design and implementation of a VR application for collaboration at work (productivity).
This masters level project comprises:
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Research methods including literature review and analysis
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Design of an engineering artifact
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Implementation (software development) of an application based on research
A suitable candidate needs to have basic software development and an interest in research, technology and building applications such as VR/XR (we will provide training on VR/XR for a suitable candidate, so prior experience not required)