Seeing the future together – a virtual reality tool to improve learning for end-users in early project phases

Purpose Communication with end users involved in real estate (RE) projects can be challenging. End-users often have a limited ability to imagine spaces/designs from traditional 2D plans and 3D images and the use of Virtual Reality (VR) might be helpful. This study aims to present the development of a VR tool that can be applied in the context of workplace projects to facilitate end-user engagement. Design/methodology/approach A Design Science Research (DSR) methodology is used to develop the VR-tool prototype. This is done through the definition of understanding difficulties, a review of the potentials of VR, a draft research design to evaluate the VR tool and the tool-development itself. Findings Because of its immersive experience, VR has a huge potential to improve understanding and learning. A VR tool to learn about Activity-Based Working is developed, which can be used during workplace projects as an innovative change intervention. How the development can be successful regarding tool requirements, functionality, technology and VR content is presented. Evaluating the tool is part of further research. Practical implications VR can extend beyond design review and marketing tasks. The development of VR tools that are applicable for learning in workplace project settings, as well as other use cases and asset classes, not only supports change management but is also practically implementable and scalable. Originality/value The research broadens the understanding of the applicability of VR as an emerging technology in RE, which is currently mostly limited to design review and marketing. The DSR methodology shows, how ready-to-use tools can be developed for specific applications. The VR tool can be a basis for further research that involves end-users.