A user-centred virtual city information model for inclusive community design: State-of-art

The concept of community design has evolved with the advancement of technology. City information models (CIM), urban digital twin (UDT), and the proliferation of communication technologies have transformed the way society operates and has led to the modernisation of traditional methods of inclusive decision-makings. However, creating a CIM that effectively aligns the diverse interests and capabilities of (non-expert) users like local inhabitants for active participation can be challenging. In this study, we aim to develop a virtual CIM and explore the immersive behaviours of (non-expert) users in the context of community design and policy decision-making. To do this, we use a combination of multi-objective programming and mixed-media prototyping to create the CIM, which includes LOD 300 spatial representation, what-if scenario implementation, geo-tagging feedback, and easy communication and exploration by stakeholders. The virtual CIM was tested in a real-life urban community design exercise in The Netherlands, the Blue Zone Malvalaan, in two phases by both expert and non-expert stakeholders. We evaluated the user experience through quantitative and qualitative data analysis, focusing on ease-of-use, usefulness, immersion, mental and physical comfort, and satisfaction. Our research shows how the virtual CIM can help local stakeholders contribute to community design optimisation and strengthen policy decision-making outcomes.