Virtual reality simulation in urban design processes: Comparative workflow assessment and implementation outcomes

Abstract

Urban design presents risks of decision-making, such as spatial comprehension, coordination of the stakeholders, and successive check-ups. This paper will explore one of the simulation tools known as Virtual Reality (VR) to intensify these processes in a real urban development project. The two workflows were compared using a business park case in the Cairo exit in Almaza, Heliopolis, namely conventional and VR-augmented design. They identified seven stages of design and those tools of VR were employed to observe one of the teams and the other one used the traditional method of working. The results were tested on six criteria such as efficiency in process, teamwork and stakeholder involvement. Findings indicated that the VR-aided team was more effective than the conventional team, particularly in the participation, spatial awareness and iteration speed. VR has significant positive effects in decision making, allows more interaction, and fosters flexibility in urban design workflows.