Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Doctor of Information Technology (D.I.T.)

School

Information Systems and Technology

Advisor

Bob Duhainy

Abstract

The virtual reality market is rapidly increasing and is projected to drastically expand soon as more head-mounted displays are released to customers. These changes have made it more critical that organizations have adequate user interface strategies. Yet there is still a lack of research on how to design quality virtual reality user interfaces that result in positive user experiences. The purpose of this qualitative multiple-case study was to identify design strategies software developers use to create user interfaces for virtual reality environments. Constructionist and constructivist theories served as the conceptual frameworks. The participants consisted of 6 developers from 3 different organizations in Texas who had experience with designing virtual reality environments. Data collection involved interviews with 6 software developers. Member checking was used to ensure the accuracy of the findings captured from participants. Thematic analysis yielded 5 key themes: focusing on a simple design, following an iterative approach during development, satisfying the customer and stakeholder, delivering prototypes and models throughout the design and development process, and receiving feedback throughout the process. Findings may benefit future software developers as they form strategies for creating successful virtual reality user interfaces. Implications for positive social change include potentially implementing virtual reality user interfaces for the public that are simple and easy to use, and that do not cause physical discomfort.

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