Architect-Client Communication During Co-ideation with 2D Digital and 3D Immersive Sketches: A Case Study

Effective architect-client communication is crucial for the successful progress of the design process. Traditional 2D sketches may pose challenges due to the high uncertainty experienced by clients regarding the project. This kind of communication is perceived as the intersection of clarity of information, clarity of sketched representations, and suitable communication methods (verbal and non-verbal). Aiming to support it, this case study evaluates the level of uncertainty and clarity experienced by architects and clients when using 2D digital sketches and immersive 3D sketches during co-ideation. This case study followed an architect and two clients co-ideating two similar small projects, using three digital sketching tools: 3D sketches on Gravity Sketch using Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets, Hyve-3D co-design immersive projection system (VR without headsets), and 2D sketches with a digital tablet using its pen. Each project included three twenty-minute sessions per tool, followed by a questionnaire. Preliminary findings suggest that 3D sketches offer better clarity and reduce participants' uncertainty. We found generally high expectations from the tools at the beginning of the collaborative sessions and a subsequent decrease in impressions at the end due to the lack of clarity of the proposed representations. The immersive projection system better supported non-verbal communication, observed through gestures, whereas the VR headset restricted this activity.