Increasing customization in a location-based augmented reality software platform

Abstract

In this thesis, I designed and implemented a framework for adding customizable icons to an existing location-based augmented reality software platform. This platform is comprised of a browser-based editor and a mobile application. In the editor, my work included increasing the size and variety of the existing icon palette, as well as, including a new option for uploading custom images for icons. This framework allows for greater understanding during gameplay, which in turn, improves the user experience while using the mobile application. Additionally, I redesigned the user interface used for interacting with these icons in the editor. This UI redesign increases learnability and usability by creating parallels between the editor and the mobile application. A series of user testing sessions were conducted to determine the effectiveness of these new features.