Decision-Making in virtual reality: An experimental study on virtual reality's effect on presence, task-load and decision-making performance within operational command

• VR use increases temporal task load but enhances decision-making performance. • Participants in the VR condition reported significantly higher spatial presence. • Openness to experience predicts perceived usefulness and ease of use in VR applications. • User attitudes toward VR are primarily driven by perceived usefulness and enjoyment. • VR demonstrates strong potential as an interface for decision-making in operational contexts. Virtual reality (VR) is an emerging technology primarily used in training, with potential applications as a digital interface for crisis management and operational command. This article investigates two aspects: the influence of the personality trait "openness" on the technology acceptance model and the impact of VR on presence, task load, and decision-making performance in ten military operational scenarios. The study involved 140 soldiers (93% male; M = 33.5, SD = 13.6) randomly assigned to the desktop or VR condition. Psychometric results indicate that openness affects perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Perceived usefulness and perceived enjoyment predict users' attitudes toward VR technology, which, in turn, influences their behavioral intentions. Experimental findings reveal a strong correlation between the VR condition and spatial presence ( r = -0.739) and temporal demand ( r = -0.256). Notably, the VR group demonstrates significantly improved decision-making performance ( d = -1.537). However, it is essential to note that the impact of the VR condition is not mediated by presence and task load. The article also discusses the implications of these results and potential explanatory approaches.