On the value of Virtual Worlds for collaborative design

Virtual Worlds have not been deployed widely in collaborative design, and their respective value is largely unknown. In this paper we make a combined use of established principles in design and computer-mediated communication studies to provide an account of their value for collaborative design by presenting three case studies concerned with: (a) review sessions of the architectural design of a cottage; (b) collaborative design of the interior space of an academic laboratory; (c) collaboration of design teams for the user interface design of a multimedia kiosk. We have found that collaborative design in VWs is a very engaging experience for remote participants and can add value to the activities of conceptual design and/or design review in the domains of design examined.

► We present 3 case studies of collaborative design in Virtual Worlds (VWs). ► VWs can effectively support conceptual design in the domains examined. ► VWs can be effectively employed in design review and customer-centred evaluation. ► VWs offer an engaging user experience to designers and clients. ► VWs may not adequately support detailed design activities.