A qualitative research on location-aware information delivery using the Monocle

Abstract

This research explores the implementation and usability of a location-aware augmented reality (AR) system using the Monocle device by Brilliant Labs. The study aims to enhance the delivery of location-based real-time and contextually relevant information through an Android application that interacts with the Monocle. The investigation follows a qualitative research methodology that includes user experience techniques, usability tests, and thematic analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and user satisfaction of the proposed system. The research process encompasses several phases: a review of the existing literature on AR and location-based services, the prototype development of the Monocle application, and the usability testing of the system. Some of the major areas of concern highlighted by key findings include usability issues in the way information is presented and navigated, and performance problems such as slow updates. Nevertheless, the users agreed that such devices can be useful for getting information which is relevant to the user’s location. Overall, the study reveals the need to conduct multiple rounds of testing and feedback from the users when designing AR applications. Some of the suggestions include increasing the sensitivity of the buttons, increasing the rate of data retrieval and increasing the amount of information that is specific to the location. This thesis provides a significant addition to the current literature on the design and use of AR systems and provides useful recommendations for future advancements in location-aware information delivery systems.