What Factors Contribute to the Perceived Usability of Virtual Reality Technology of Conservative Industrial Consumers

Abstract

Our study investigated what factors contribute to the perceived usability of Virtual Reality technology by small firms operating in a conservative industry. For this purpose, we interviewed the developers and users of a newly developed Virtual Reality-equipped heavy machinery. We conducted eleven semi-structured interviews and used thematic analysis to identify the main themes that influenced the perceived usability of the technology by the consumers. This was significant as it contributed to their decisions about purchasing and continuing to use the technology. Consequently, it impacted the developers of the technology in their competitive capability in a conservative and homogenous industrial arena. The dimension and depth of perceived usability by this specific groups are discussed, and the practical implications are provided.