In the rapidly evolving landscape of the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Facilities Management (AEC-FM) industry, a new study sheds light on the transformative potential of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. Led by Sahand Fathi from the Department of Civil Engineering and Construction Engineering Management at California State University, Long Beach, the research provides a nuanced look at the adoption trends, challenges, and future prospects of AR/VR in the AEC-FM sector.
The study, published in *Frontiers in Built Environment* (which translates to “Frontiers in the Built Environment”), employed a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys of over 200 industry experts conducted in 2018, 2020, and 2023 with thematic analysis of qualitative interviews. The findings reveal a dynamic landscape where initial optimism about AR/VR technologies has been tempered by practical challenges.
“In 2018, there was a lot of excitement about the potential of AR and VR in our industry,” Fathi noted. “However, as we conducted subsequent surveys, it became clear that while the technology is promising, there are significant barriers to widespread adoption.”
The research highlights that the commercial and institutional sectors have been at the forefront of AR/VR adoption, driven by the need for enhanced visualization and collaboration. However, recent growth in the industrial sector indicates that AR/VR technologies are increasingly valued for their ability to manage large-scale, complex projects efficiently.
One of the most compelling findings is the industry’s growing preference for outsourcing AR/VR-related tasks. This shift is partly due to the high costs and specialized expertise required for in-house development. Additionally, the study notes a move toward cost-effective solutions like Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) technologies, which reduce the need for internal AR/VR expertise.
“Outsourcing allows companies to leverage AR/VR capabilities without the substantial investment in infrastructure and training,” Fathi explained. “This trend is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where large-scale projects can benefit from the enhanced visualization and collaboration that AR/VR offers.”
The study also reveals that perceptions about the future of AR/VR are consistent across different age groups and genders, suggesting a broad-based acceptance of these technologies. However, the research underscores the need for continued innovation and cost reduction to fully realize the potential of AR/VR in the AEC-FM industry.
As the energy sector increasingly embraces digital transformation, the insights from this study could shape future developments in the field. By understanding the trends, gaps, and solutions related to AR/VR adoption, industry stakeholders can make informed decisions that drive efficiency and innovation.
In the words of Fathi, “The future of AR/VR in our industry is bright, but it requires a strategic approach that addresses the current challenges and leverages the strengths of these technologies.” As the AEC-FM sector continues to evolve, the findings from this research will undoubtedly play a crucial role in guiding the integration of AR/VR technologies, ultimately benefiting the energy sector and beyond.