POTENTIALS AND BARRIERS OF IMMERSIVE CONSTRUCTION MEETINGS

Immersive technologies, such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) become important to improve the efficiency of the construction industry.VR and AR are already in use, particularly in inventory and design.In the construction process and especially in the communication during the construction process, AR and VR are rarely used.First studies show that immersive technologies enable enhanced visualization and interaction, allowing participants to engage with spatial and technical aspects of construction projects in innovative ways.AR provides real-time overlays of digital information on physical environments, improving situational awareness and facilitating on-site decision-making.VR creates fully immersive virtual environments, offering precise simulations that support collaborative problem-solving.Together, these technologies are mentioned to enable better communication, reduce misunderstandings, and improve coordination.Challenges include the absence of non-verbal communication cues in virtual settings, technological limitations, and the need for user training.Especially in hybrid meetings, VR and AR can help make these meetings more efficient and reduce misunderstandings.To analyze the impact of immersive technologies on communication in construction meetings, this study investigates the application of AR and VR in construction meetings.Using a SWOT analysis, the research examines the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats with these technologies in hybrid meetings.Afterwards the results are discussed against expert interviews that were conducted in 2024.With the deductive approach of the SWOT analysis and the inductive approach of the interviews, the results can be validated.The results of the study highlight the transformative potential of immersive technologies in enhancing collaboration, innovation, and addressing communication barriers in meetings.It also emphasizes the need for further research to optimize these tools for usability and industry adoption.By strategically incorporating AR and VR into meeting workflows, the construction industry can increase efficiency and other benefits in traditional communication.