Veiviser: scoping challenges in the deployment of augmented reality navigation for impaired individuals

Abstract

This study reports on the development and evaluation of a multimodal augmented reality (AR) indoor navigation prototype using Visual Positioning technology designed to improve mobility for individuals with visual impairments or other disabilities and deployed in the public sector. Particu-lar focus was on scalability, transparency, and privacy. Based on consultation with different user groups in a user-centered design (UCD) process, different technological possibilities were identified, and an application was developed and evaluated. The evaluation incorporated a System Usability Scale (SUS) test and post-test interviews. Results were promising, demonstrating that the prototype is user-friendly and effective. Subsequently, we reflected on the implications of a deployment at a larger scale and potential risks to privacy and transparency. Several issues related to privacy and scal-ing the application to support more users and offer wide navigation opportunities were identified and discussed in the article.