Application of Empirical and Analytical Usability Studies to the User-Centred Development of Extended Reality (XR) Software

Szabó, Bálint and Ladjánszky, Rita and Pataki-Bittó, Fruzsina and Tóvölgyi, Sarolta and Kapusy, Kata (2024) Application of Empirical and Analytical Usability Studies to the User-Centred Development of Extended Reality (XR) Software. In: P/References of Design. Cumulus conference proceedings series, 1 (1). Cumulus Association, Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design Budapest, Budapest, pp. 1365-1384. ISBN 978-952-7549-02-5

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Abstract

The theoretical section of the paper outlines the progression of the Internet from the Web 1.0 era to the speculative notion of Web 4.0. The latter is referred to as the symbiotic web, wherein the prevailing solutions such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) developments serve as the framework for advancements that establish a harmonious connection between the user and the software product. Web 4.0 is expected to demonstrate unique characteristics, specifically proactive, content-exploring, self-learning, collaborative, and content-generating solutions (such as extended reality (XR)). XR is an umbrella term derived from the VR-AR continuum, and as an emerging concept, it can revolutionise how people perceive and engage with their environment. The paper evaluates a prototype XR software product designed for fashion model agencies through empirical and analytical usability studies. The research aims to thoroughly understand the user requirements for forthcoming immersive environments, encompassing insights from potential users and experts in user experience (UX) design. To achieve this goal, we conducted a Rapid Iterative Testing and Evaluation (RITE) usability study with a sample of potential users (n=13). We assessed the system's overall usability and gathered subjective feedback by administering a System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire and conducting a follow-up interview. Besides that, a usability inspection method was applied, where UX specialists (n=6) were engaged within the framework of heuristic evaluation. Similarly, in this instance, the heuristic evaluation was accompanied by a subsequent interview, in which the experts imparted their subjective experiences and professional insights to us. The user-centred studies have resulted in diverse forms of feedback. The RITE test identified several minor usability issues, such as the absence of software affordances and familiar interactions. On the other hand, the heuristic test has highlighted suggestions for long-term improvements, primarily focusing on the ergonomic design of the XR space across various sub-dimensions. We systematically compare and contrast usability observations from empirical and analytical studies, demonstrating the practical value of applying these methodologies in developing XR software products. Consequently, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the results derived from the different types of usability studies that could be useful for creating and developing future immersive spaces.

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