| Abstract | This document introduces a Virtual Task Analysis Tool (VETAT) for the creation and evaluation of virtual art exhibits. VETAT was developed to provide structure and guidance to the needs analysis process essential to the successful development of life-like virtual exhibits. The first part of the workbook draws a general profile of the target application. It introduces organizational, user and task related factors typically collected when designing or modifying computer-based systems. The second section presents the user and task requirements unique to the creation of a virtual environment. Task requirements are collected within storyboards and organized according to an appropriate architecture. Storyboards identify the images, sounds, sensations and scents found in individual galleries. The architecture establishes a sensible order in which the galleries may be accessed. User requirements determine the human sensory, cognitive and ergonomic needs relevant to the key activities museum visitors are expected to perform. Activities include visualization and inspection, exploration and the manipulation of virtual artifacts. Eight goal-categories define user requirements. Visual, auditory and haptic needs are determined by human sensory issues. Features relevant to memory capacity, information load and mental models are the result of cognitive issues. Physical and physiological considerations are determined by human ergonomics. The last section of the workbook identifies usability issues, measures of achieved performance and/or competence. Four subjective measures are suggested to evaluate the success of the system and identify critical issues. One questionnaire investigates user satisfaction with regard to the activities performed within the environment. A second targets health issues and a third the participants' reported sense of presence and realism. A fourth questionnaire collects information relevant to various image properties of specific interest to art specialists. It is hoped that this document provides a useful basis for the successful creation and evaluation of life-like virtual exhibits. Comments and suggestions for future improvements are invited. |
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