Virtual Reality Based Decision Support Model for Production Process of Museum Exhibition Projects

Quality and time are uncompromisable performance indicators of the physical exhibition production process. Design changes during the installation phase of the process, which arise from poor design representations, cause expensive rework and therefore cost increase. Since non-AEC (architecture/engineering) construction) decision-makers can only partially imagine the outcome through traditional 2D and 3D design representations; we proposed a model incorporating virtual reality technologies to solve design miscommunications and improve stakeholder participation. We adopted a qualitative method and tested the model through case studies with five expert museum professionals. We confirm that VR enhances the design communication among the contributing professionals and, unlike other traditional methods, makes it possible to present multimedia, lighting, sound effects, and other digital elements throughout the exhibition production process. Findings indicate that VR has the potential for significant cost reductions and quality improvement in the construction phase of the exhibitions.