Category: Lab Exercises

What is 360 VR Storyboarding?

Stakeholders and subject matter experts can get a sneak peek at the course’s structure and content through a storyboard. It’s a fantastic approach to revise and modify content before it enters the frequently laborious course construction phase. You may increase the likelihood that your course will succeed by creating a storyboard, which will enable the course to be launched without the need for expensive revisions (eNetReality, n.d).

In a virtual reality setting, storyboards are essential for several reasons. They not only improve the crucial aspect of immersion but also assist all involved in correctly visualising the finished product. This helps to keep things organised and planned, which helps to keep things moving forward (Despina Maliaka, herox, n.d).

A thorough screenplay with a focus on the user’s perspective and clear graphics. All these may seem simple, but when combined, they provide something far more potent than any of them could be on their own: a guide that will help you craft experiences that people won’t soon forget (Despina Maliaka, herox, n.d).

Examples of 360 VR Storyboards

The director can then document how the play is to be conceived, where props are to be placed, and any necessary approaches. It is also possible to set an editing layer that indicates where the shot’s beginning and end should be the centre of attention (360 Storytelling, n.d).

360 VR Storyboarding

Sticky notes were first used in the storyboard’s creation since they allowed for several placements in case anything needed to be changed. Side walls view was also created to help with the arrangement of the visual elements. VR Frame will be fully interactive, with a combination of 2D and 3D features.

However this idea was changed as the 360 VR didn’t give enough detail in terms of whole structure of the piece. So side view panels were also created.

Summary

After conducting research on what a 360 storyboard should look like and how it should be done, a brief visual 360 storyboard was created to explore the user journey with the placement of interactive visual elements to entice people entering the VR Frame.

References

Despina Maliaka, herox, n.d. The Importance of Strong Storyboards and How to Make a Great One [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.herox.com/blog/1056-the-importance-of-strong-storyboards-and-how-to-ma [Accessed in 26 November 2023].

eNetReality, n.d. Storyboarding for 360 VR? [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.enetreality.com/Blog/VRStoryboard [Accessed in 24 November 2023]

360 Storytelling, n.d. Storyboarding in 360 [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.360storytelling.org/preproduction/storyboarding [Accessed in 24 November 2023]

Embracing Virtual Reality in Project Management

Because there is “no proximity,” employees in virtual teams often have communication difficulties. Virtual reality, which includes blogging, videoconferencing, and instant messaging, can help with this issue by enabling people to communicate, discuss challenges, and share ideas in a highly dynamic virtual environment. Put differently, a “virtual office” offers a solution to the problem of employee isolation because it allows employees worldwide access to the most recent corporate news and initiatives (thinking portfolio, 13 November 2017).

The majority of project managers are used to working with the traditional management methodology. Project managers should think beyond the details and not micromanage while utilising virtual reality. They also need to become sufficiently knowledgeable about the technology in use to enable team members to communicate virtually. When team members in a virtual workplace have not had a single in-person meeting, it is critical to use more interactive communication tools than email (thinking portfolio, 13 November 2017).

In essence, a project schedule is a set of time-bound tasks with established beginning and ending dates. These time-bound components are frequently interdependent and are typically estimated with the project’s duration, budget, and resources in mind (thinking portfolio, 13 November 2017).

Why Project Planning is Important?

Project plans are crucial because they offer a common understanding of the objectives of the project. This mutual understanding keeps the team cohesive as they work towards the project’s objectives and provide outstanding outcomes. Project plans provide a clear understanding of each team member’s and stakeholder’s roles. Additionally, they manage the project’s workload from beginning to end and keep important duties separate from unnecessary effort (Kelechi Udoagwu, wrike, 2 May 2022).

Throughout the course of the project, project plans can develop into an effective team communication tool. They are a valuable textual resource for the team, the project manager, and outside parties. Along with reducing risk, these plans also uphold quality throughout the whole project lifecycle, from planning to conclusion (Kelechi Udoagwu, wrike, 2 May 2022).

Project Timescale Timetable

Summary

Planning each step of a project before beginning gives structure to the final product, as everything was done to create a well-made piece. The planning stage will begin at the end of November, and it has been extended to ensure that everything makes sense. The piece was given a long time to produce because it allows for the creation of a high-quality final product. Though keeping the plan in mind, there are instances when it is impossible to forecast the future. In these situations, it is important to act gradually but consistently to avoid procrastination.

References

Kelechi Udoagwu, wrike, 2 May 2022. Project Planning Essential Elements (With Infographic) [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.wrike.com/blog/essential-elements-perfect-project-plan-infographic/ [Accessed in 20 November 2023]

thinking portfolio, 13 November 2017. How Project Planning Benefit from Virtual Reality [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://thinkingportfolio.com/en/project-planning-benefit-virtual-reality/ [Accessed in 22 November 2023]

Why is VR UX Design Important?

Complete immersion in a virtual world is one of virtual reality’s main goals. Users may become disengaged as a result of poor UX design disrupting their immersion. UX design can contribute to the creation of an engaging, immersive experience that holds the user’s attention for long stretches of time (Azar MAmmadli, Linkedin, 18 September 2023).

Ethical Consideration

Privacy

Because AR and VR technologies routinely capture and store enormous quantities of personal data, privacy is a big problem for developers working with these technologies. Developers are required to comply with privacy laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and to be open and honest about the data they gather and how it will be used. Developers also need to think about how their experiences like the usage of monitoring or facial recognition technology may negatively affect people’s privacy (Tatiana Fernandez, Linkedin, 21 March 2023).

Accessibility in WebVR

A crucial element of VR accessibility is the requirement for inclusive content that encompasses a wide variety of individuals and viewpoints. People with impairments, who might not have the same opportunities to see the world as others and who might not be effectively represented in traditional media, should pay particular attention to this (Helen Hooper, VirtualSpeech, 2 June 2023).

Games that can be played silently, with subtitles and no voice-over instructions for players who are hard of hearing or deaf, or that can only be played with one hand by those with mobility issues are a few instances of inclusive content (Helen Hooper, VirtualSpeech, 2 June 2023).

VR offers an extremely immersive experience that may take users to completely new worlds, which is one of its most fascinating features.

This can be especially helpful for individuals with disabilities since it allows them to transcend the constraints of their physical body and experience things that might not be feasible for them otherwise. A wheelchair user may use virtual reality (VR) to trek up a mountain, while a person with vision issues could use it to explore a city (Helen Hooper, VirtualSpeech, 2 June 2023).

Diversity

The creation of inclusive and varied experiences is one of the main problems facing developers of AR and VR technologies. This entails taking into account the needs of people with various backgrounds, including those who are disabled, come from diverse cultural backgrounds, or identify as a different gender. It is the responsibility of developers to make sure that their experiences do not support bias or assumptions and to make an effort to create environments that are inclusive of all people (Tatiana Fernandez, Linkedin, 21 March 2023).

References

Azar Mammadli, Linkedin, 18 September 2023. The Crucial Role of UX Design in Virtual Reality [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/crucial-role-ux-design-virtual-reality-azar-mammadli [Accessed in : 25 November 2023]

Helen Hooper, VirtualSpeech, 2 June 2023. The current and potential uses of VR for accessibility and inclusion [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://virtualspeech.com/blog/vr-accessibility-inclusion [Accessed in 23 November 2023]

Tatiana Fernandez, Linkedin, 21 March 2023. Ethical Considerations for Virtual Reality and Immersive Experiences [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ethical-considerations-virtual-reality-immersive-tatiana-fern%C3%A1ndez [Accessed in 25 November 2023]

Immersive User Experience

VR enables designers to produce user experiences that are more captivating and immersive. Websites can be created to function as three-dimensional virtual environments that users can explore and engage with digital information in. Longer on-site stays and higher levels of user engagement may result from this enhanced level of immersion (Elis Hayakawa, MATCHBOX, 18 September 2023).

Content Development in WebVR

Virtual reality is hugely profitable. According to IDC, investment on AR and VR will total $18.8 billion this year, a 78.5% rise from the previous year. It is expected to attain a five-year compound annual growth rate of 77% by the end of 2023. Customers are participating in virtual reality (VR) through video games and VR feature viewing, which allows users to virtually explore areas with the use of apps like 360Cities and Google Earth VR.

With this in mind, users can experience realism in my WebVR realm by blending 2D and 3D information.

Storytelling and Narrative

It pushes web designers to consider online interactions as narratives and storytelling. These days, websites may lead visitors through an interactive story or series of events, making for a more engaging and memorable storytelling experience. In contrast to traditional media, virtual storytelling has the power to arouse strong emotions and draw viewers deeper into a story. Empathy and an emotional bond with the characters and tale are created by being physically there in the virtual world and living the story firsthand (Elis Hayakawa, MATCHBOX, 18 September 2023).

A thorough understanding of your target audience is necessary when developing VR marketing experiences, just like in traditional content marketing. but not the usual buyer persona information. You must be aware of your audience’s psychology and how it influences their decision-making. Do they participate in the process actively or passively? What must you demonstrate to them in order to captivate their attention and persuade them to interact with your virtual reality experience? (Thomas Griffin, Forbes, 8 May 2020).

Technology and Tools

WebVR with VR, a tool that enables both inside and outside VR reality, will be utilised to construct this piece. To make it more realistic, several 3D natural elements will be included. There will also be some added photography and video content. These tools will be ideal in creating experiences for various user categories.

Multi Platform Experience

The emergence of WebVR has considerably facilitated multi-platform experiences. WebVR is a technique that makes all the material accessible on different devices and through compatible web browsers. It helps consumers experience virtual reality from within their web browsers, doing away with the need for additional hardware or stand-alone programmes. It is made to function on a variety of gadgets, such as smartphones, laptops, and desktop PCs. The content is guaranteed to be accessible to users on any platform thanks to this device agnosticism. Major web browsers including Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox also support it (Elis Hayakawa, MATCHBOX, 18 September 2023).

References

Elis Hayakawa, MATCHBOX, 18 September 2023. The Role of Virtual Reality in Modern Web Design [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://matchboxdesigngroup.com/blog/the-role-of-virtual-reality-in-modern-web-design/ [Accessed in 27 November 2023]

Thomas Griffin, Forbes, 8 May 2020. How To Use VR In Your Tech Content Marketing [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2020/05/08/how-to-use-vr-in-your-tech-content-marketing/?sh=750228e25d5e [Accessed in 29 November 2023]

Project Scope and Objectives

After trying out several cutting-edge technologies, the choice was made to utilise VR Frame since it offers a 360-degree experience that can be developed without a VR headset and reaches a wider audience that is interested in trying it out. As Lithuania enters the Top 10 remote working countries, this kind of developing technology would be helpful in solving the problem presented by a persona who wishes to employ VR Frame Experience to create awareness of Lithuania’s sustainable balance between work and personal life.

Examples of WebVR

Google Earth VR

You may explore the world in virtual reality with Google Earth VR and see it from completely different angles. With this virtual reality programme, you may see the cities, landmarks, and scenic beauties of the world. You can soar into space, stand atop the tallest peaks, and fly over a city. With its cinematic tours and carefully chosen locations, Earth VR transports you to various locations such as the Swiss Alps, the Grand Canyon and more (Google, Steam, n.d).

Audience of My Project

In UK, the age group of 25 to 44 is the most likely to relocate abroad in search of employment. 42% of workers said they would like to work remotely from overseas using their employer’s policies. Approximately 560,000 people departed the UK in 2022 to live permanently abroad. This demonstrates the desire people have in relocating overseas to experience new things and discover who they are (Giacomo Piva, Storage, 26 January 2023).

Virtual tourism aims to create a near-life touring experience of a particular destination or tourist attraction. Virtual tourism can provide a glimpse of what a destination or tourist attraction has to offer; it can also be used to plan a future in-person trip (Ursula Perula Barzey, moxee marketing, 13 December 2022).

The intention is not to supplant in-person travel but rather to expand into new markets, such as school groups and older adults with discretionary means who are unable to travel because of health issues or limited mobility (Ursula Perula Barzey, moxee marketing, 13 December 2022).

Summary

In the world of different 360 VR concepts, there isn’t a sample that perfectly fits the project in the world of many VR concepts, or at least based on my study, I couldn’t locate anything comparable that would already exist. This distinguishes the notion in that it highlights a nation with developing technologies that is little known to the rest of the globe and can attract the user’s curiosity in visiting for desired employment.

References

British Museum, 22 October 2020. Arctic culture and climate [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/arctic-culture-and-climate/360-tour/ [Accessed in 10 November 2023]

Giacomo Piva, Storage, 26 January 2023. Working Abroad Statistics: UK Guide 2023 [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://travel.radicalstorage.com/working-abroad-statistics/ [Accessed in 10 November 2023]

Google, Steam, n.d. Google Earth VR [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://store.steampowered.com/app/348250/Google_Earth_VR/ [Accessed in 12 November 2023]

Ursula Perula Barzey, moxee marketing, 13 December 2022. EXPLORING THE WORLD OF VIRTUAL TOURISM: ADVANTAGES, DISADVANTAGES, AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.moxeemarketing.com/exploring-the-world-of-virtual-tourism/ [Accessed in 14 November 2023]

What is VR Art?

In today’s media revolution, the virtual media artist is a new type of artist who leverages the aesthetic and innovative possibilities of image-creating processes to establish artistic positions and new perception options. Furthermore, the virtual reality artist explicitly investigates novel kinds of interface design and interaction, contributing to the medium’s evolution as both a technician and an artist. In virtual art, technology and art collaborate in the service of today’s complicated image-creation machines (Art Guide, n.d).

Advantages of VR Art

VR makes art more accessible to persons with impairments, allowing them to participate in and create art in ways that were previously not feasible. Individuals with mobility problems, for example, can browse virtual galleries without physical constraints, while those with visual impairments can interact with tactile or aural art. VR can also assist bridge cultural gaps and linguistic difficulties in the art industry, fostering diversity and inclusivity (Tugne Tamer, capsule signt, 15 May 2023).

Limitations of VR Art

However, there are several disadvantages to virtual reality art displays. For example, while wearing VR headsets, some viewers may experience motion sickness or discomfort, which can detract from their overall experience. Furthermore, the lack of physical presence and touch may hinder the viewer’s capacity to properly appreciate the material aspects of the artwork. Finally, VR technology can be costly, making virtual reality art displays inaccessible to some artists and viewers (Lee Down, artsartistartwork, 13 May 2023).

Experimentation with VR Art

Summary

After discovering and testing with VR Art, the decision was made not to use VR Immersive Art because, in my experience, you won’t be able to sit with a VR headset for lengthy periods of time because it causes headaches. Even though the software is simple to use and includes a tutorial, it takes time to become used to the 3D component of it, thus all view angles should be considered. You need a lot of space if you’re in starionary mode because there’s a chance you’ll hit someone. In terms of taking in more, the decision was made not to do so for the reasons stated previously.

References

Art Guide, n.d. What Is Virtual Art? [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.artdex.com/what-is-virtual-art/ [Accessed in 15 November 2023]

Lee Down, artsartistartwork, 13 May 2023. Virtual Reality And The Future Of Art Exhibitions [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://artsartistsartwork.com/virtual-reality-and-the-future-of-art-exhibitions/ [Accessed in 15 November 2023]

Tugne Tamer, capsule signt, 15 May 2023. Benefits of Virtual Reality for Art [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://capsulesight.com/vrglasses/benefits-of-virtual-reality-for-art/ [Accessed in 15 November 2023]

What is AR?

Augmented reality is used by apps like Instagram and Snapchat. AR design is used in the editing of photos and selfies, the superimposition of digital costumes, the application of makeup, the alteration of the face, and the modification of voice (Joseph Downs, Justinmind, 29 August 2019).

Still, there are other factors besides social benefits that might make users happy. People can feel enthusiastic about their next purchase by using the IKEA Place app, which allows them to preview how furniture would look in their house. They are able to save money and time as well. In short, augmented reality (AR) improves or augments your present world in some way, as the name would imply (Joseph Downs, Justinmind, 29 August 2019).

Advantages of AR

One of the most appealing characteristics of AR is its use of real-world surroundings. This means that, unlike virtual reality, designers do not have to construct a totally new environment from scratch. Instead, the context of the user can be exploited to create an augmented experience in which virtual items become a part of the real environment (Ramotion, 9 January 2023).

Limitations of AR

The user experience is another drawback of AR. AR can provide incredible and fascinating experiences, but it can also cause users to face eye strain, motion sickness, privacy problems, and social embarrassment. These difficulties have the potential to impair customer enjoyment, comfort, and trust in AR technology (Augmented Reality, Linkedin, n.d).

Experimentations with AR

Summary

Following some testing and analysis, the decision was reached to use AR if the projected project is compatible with it. AR strikes a solid balance between reality and virtuality, however some accessibility advancements might be made even further. This media is perfect for bringing historical landmarks to life or for navigating by providing realistic representations of streets.

References

Augmented Reality, Linkedin, n.d. How can you overcome the limitations of Augmented Reality technology? [Online] (Updated in 19 September 2023) Available at : https://www.linkedin.com/advice/0/how-can-you-overcome-limitations-augmented-reality [Accessed in 27 October 2023]

Joseph Downs, Justinmind, 29 August 2019. 18 AR, MR and VR design principles [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.justinmind.com/blog/vr-design/ [Accessed in 25 October 2023]

Pokemon Go, 20 December 2017. AR+ is now available in Pokémon GO! [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://pokemongolive.com/post/arplus/ [Accessed in 25 October 2023]

Ramotion, 9 January 2023. AR in UX design: From Design Principles to Best Practices [Online] (Updated in 22 August 2023) Available at : https://www.ramotion.com/blog/ar-in-ux-design/ [Accessed in 25 October 2023]

What is VR?

VR is, as the name suggests, a virtual environment into which the user can enter and experience as their own reality. There has been a lot of experimenting in VR design in the previous several years. Despite the fact that it has been there since the 1960s, VR design has only recently risen to the fore (Joseph Downs, Justinmind, 29 August 2019).

Advantages of 360 VR User Experience

Users can have an extremely engaging and interactive experience with VR. Virtual reality has many applications and uses, including entertainment and education. To keep people interested and pleased with their entire experience, designers can produce extremely immersive experiences (Ramotion, 16 January 2023).

Limitations of 360 VR User Experience

When incorporating 360-degree video, keep in mind the possibility of viewer weariness and confusion. The format’s immersive aspect can be both a strength and a weakness, since some viewers may find the experience overpowering or confusing, especially when viewed with a VR headset. This can result in a poor user experience and discourage some visitors from engaging with your material (Marcin Frackiewicz, TS2, 10 July 2023).

360 3D Content Using Maya – Week 1

WebVR – Week 2

Summary

It was decided to use Frame VR for personal projects and further development after testing them out. Frame VR enables the creation of the virtual reality world beyond the headset, which is why this choice was picked. Multiple people can access the area and more media can be imported into it. With simply the website connection, the user can access the VR scene, making the smartphone an additional VR headset which could solve with fatique and VR sickness.

References

Joseph Downs, Justinmind, 29 August 2019. 18 AR, MR and VR design principles [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://www.justinmind.com/blog/vr-design/ [Accessed in 15 October 2023]

Ramotion, 16 January 2023. VR in UX Design: Basic Guidelines for a Better Experience [Online] (Updated in 22 August 2023) Available at : https://www.ramotion.com/blog/vr-in-ux-design/ [Accessed in 15 October 2023]

Marcin Frackiewicz, TS2, 10 July 2023. The Pros and Cons of 360-Degree Video for Businesses [Online] (n.d.) Available at : https://ts2.space/en/the-pros-and-cons-of-360-degree-video-for-businesses/#google_vignette&gsc.tab=0 [Accessed in 17 October 2023]