An Interface Design Method Based on Situation Awareness and Immersive Analytics for Augmented and Mixed Reality Decision Support Systems in Construction

Abstract

Research on augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) demonstrated their potential to support decision-making in construction. However, most efforts emphasized technological advancements, often overlooking how to present and interact with information to effectively support decision-making in AR/MR environments. This study proposes an interface design method that integrates situation awareness (SA) and immersive analytics (IA), two complementary frameworks that address user information needs and immersive interaction design. The method guides the design of AR/MR interfaces by aligning information content, presentation, and interaction with SA requirements and IA design principles. To evaluate its effectiveness, the method was applied to develop AR and MR interface prototypes for a simulated decision-making task involving field managers during indoor construction activities of high-rise construction projects. Results show high levels of SA achieved by participants, with no statistically significant differences between AR and MR interfaces, demonstrating the method’s effectiveness to support SA in both environments. The proposed method provides a structured approach for designing immersive interfaces that enable better perception, comprehension, and projection in dynamic construction scenarios. Moreover, it provides designers with practical guidance for interface development and allows practitioners to assess existing AR/MR solutions based on their capacity to enhance SA through IA.