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• Navigation in Virtual Worlds - From Simple to Complex

Navigation in Virtual Worlds

From Simple to Complex

By Megan Rutherford, Visual Purple LLC

Edited by: Jani Pirkola

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Ever heard the question posed: Do virtual worlds come with instructions? Virtual environments can present complex challenges to those entering for the first time. A big barrier to entry for training in virtual worlds is the belief that they are difficult for the user to navigate. I have witnessed first-hand turning the reins over to a virtual world newbie and observing their actions. In observation it appears that some navigation actions are intuitive, while others are not.

While Second Life may be one of the most complex virtual worlds to figure out- potential virtual world adopters need to realize that not all virtual worlds are made to have so many user options. Although the option to "teleport" is quite fun- is it really necessary in a serious virtual world for training? Probably not. So what are the key functionalities needed to navigate within a virtual world- obviously the arrow keys are high on the list and a "jumping ability" might be fun- so let's add in the spacebar function. For the most part "basic" avatar movement remains consistent between virtual worlds while other movements are exclusive to different virtual worlds. We won't even begin to explore gamer interface expectations here. Let's save that digital dumpster dive for a future post.

So does a new user really need training to navigate a virtual world? Just like the learning curve of navigating the world wide web- now users have a new learning curve- navigating virtual worlds. Entering a virtual world can be perceived as a daunting task for those unfamiliar with common navigation. Kind of like driving to an unknown place without the benefit of a GPS. A roadmap to the navigation of virtual world use may be helpful. I have seen even well-versed virtual world users become lost when attending Second Life events and tours- it always seems that the group looses a few along the way- due to no clear path of navigation. The sooner we can employ basic design principles and standards to virtual worlds, the sooner we can attract a broad demographic.

5 comment(s) for “Navigation in Virtual Worlds - From Simple to Complex”

	cube3 said on Friday, September 11, 2009 (10:37:48 AM) "The sooner we can employ basic design principles and standards to virtual worlds, the sooner we can attract a broad demographic" Agreed, sounds like an article should be written about this.;)
	Neil Canham said on Friday, September 11, 2009 (6:54:44 PM) Yes, it would be great to have an in depth article and discussion about this this... and it's an idea to be aware of your own assumptions - despite saying that we won't go into gaming interfaces, you assume gaming familiarity with the 'spacebar' to jump. There's nothing intuitive about that. And why would I want to jump in a business meeting? I'm more likely to want to send a chat message, interact with a chair, or IM someone
	Megan Rutherford said on Saturday, September 12, 2009 (1:56:47 AM) Thanks for the comments cube3 and Neil look for a future post on standards and basic design principles in virtual worlds.
	cube3 said on Saturday, September 12, 2009 (4:34:58 AM) :) I think the guys at maxping have an article ready;) its a redit/repost of an article that takes on basic design principles at a low level. Mass usage and easier usage will only come via better Product Design. Product Design is whats needed. Not virtual anything. :)
	cube3 said on Saturday, September 12, 2009 (11:55:09 AM) ah, i just now see that jani has published the article. please enjoy. if there's a phrasing or idea that seems odd or out of date, please let me know, its been updated , but the core principles and ideas were first written 15 years ago. i do think though the overall article is as timely today as then.