Journal of Information Technology in Construction
Journal of Information Technology in Construction
ITcon Vol. 30, pg. 1796-1813, http://www.itcon.org/2025/74
Virtual reality integration in construction pre-task planning: A qualitative case study of implementation challenges and opportunities
| DOI: | 10.36680/j.itcon.2025.074 | |
| submitted: | August 2025 | |
| revised: | November 2025 | |
| published: | December 2025 | |
| editor(s): | Bosché F | |
| authors: | Nikhil Gurav, M.S.
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Houston, Texas, USA ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4702-3175 nugurav@gmail.com Zia Ud Din, Ph.D. (corresponding author) Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Houston, Texas, USA ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0768-2887 uziauddin@uh.edu | |
| summary: | This qualitative case study examines the integration of virtual reality (VR) into the Pre-task Planning (PTP) process in construction projects. While previous research has demonstrated VR's effectiveness, limited evidence exists regarding its implementation in daily safety practices. This study synthesizes practitioner perspectives on VR-based hazard identification. Seven construction professionals working on projects value between $1 million and $160 million participated in semi-structured interviews and performed hands-on VR evaluations using Oculus Quest 2 to simulate hazard identification during PTP. Four project sites were observed during morning PTP sessions. Data analysis employed Braun and Clarke's Reflexive Thematic Analysis, generating eight themes from 350 coded comments. Findings indicate that VR functions as a selective boundary object that bridges linguistic barriers and experience gaps. Participants reported varied levels of comfort—some noted mild dizziness or physical discomfort, while others adapted quickly. Since standard VR devices cannot replicate touch-based sensations without haptic feedback add-ons, this limitation can sometimes affect hazard recognition. Participants preferred trade-specific applicability of VR in PTP; spatial-coordination trades (e.g, electrical, plumbing) can benefit more than manual trades (e.g., concrete, excavation). A preference for collective viewing through projection over individual headsets was also discussed. Critical barriers to VR use in PTP include funding unavailability, connectivity limitations, and reluctance among experienced workers. The authors propose a three-stage implementation framework: Preparation, Implementation, and Finalization. This hybrid approach enhances rather than replaces existing practices. This research offers practical guidance for organizations pursuing digital transformation in safety-critical settings. | |
| keywords: | virtual reality, pre-task planning, construction safety, technology adoption, qualitative case study, hazard identification | |
| full text: | (PDF file, 0.586 MB) | |
| citation: | Gurav N, Din Z U (2025). Virtual reality integration in construction pre-task planning: A qualitative case study of implementation challenges and opportunities, ITcon Vol. 30, pg. 1796-1813, https://doi.org/10.36680/j.itcon.2025.074 | |
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