An empirical study on the benefits of augmented reality technology (ART): A Nigerian construction industry context

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) is the combination of real and computer-based images and scenes to bring about a unified and improved view of the world. This study assesses the benefits of augmented reality technology (ART) to the construction industry so that productivity in construction can be enhanced. A survey of construction professionals involved in the built environment was carried out in Lagos State, Nigeria. Architects, Project managers, Engineers, Quantity surveyors, and Builders were engaged in the survey, and they were sent a well-structured questionnaire. Convenience sampling techniques were adopted in choosing these professionals. The collected data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. According to the findings, the five most important benefits of ART are improved team collaboration and communication; enhanced repairs, rehabilitation, and maintenance; improved communication / real-time information retrieval; accurate automated measurement; and low-cost virtual training in operating heavy construction equipment. The results showed that there nine (9) out of fifteen (15) benefits had no significant difference in terms of the opinions of professionals, while the other six (6) had a significant difference. A post-hoc test revealed that there is a significant difference in opinions between the Architects and Quantity surveyors or between Quantity surveyors and Project managers on the benefits of AR while there is no significant difference for other professionals. The study concluded that AR improves collaboration and communication between workers on construction sites. It is therefore recommended that the Nigerian construction industry should create awareness programmes and platforms to inform its current and upcoming professionals on the benefits of using AR in the industry.