For users to successfully integrate GE into their design process they would be required to install GE into their PC or mobile device (currently only iPhone / iTouch). If users do not already have GE installed a link could be provided to enable quick installation.
GE is a relatively small download at only 25mb (8.9mb on iPhone) and most PC`s should run it smoothly.
The majority of functions of GE are available as a free download however content such as high resolution maps and movie maker are only included in GE Pro.
Google Earth | Free
Google Earth lets you fly anywhere on Earth to view satellite imagery, maps, terrain, 3D buildings and even explore galaxies in the Sky. You can explore rich geographical content, save your toured places and share with others.
Google Earth Pro | $400
Ideal for an organization, upgrade to Pro to access the ultimate research, presentation, and collaboration tool for location-specific information.
Google Earth Plus | $20
Upgrade to Plus to add GPS device support, faster performance, the ability to import spreadsheets, and higher resolution printing.
(http://earth.google.com)
Existing GE architecture will be used where ever possible which minimises the amount of coding development required. This reduces initial cost outlay and also lead time and training expense. All these are favourable as all issues raised are currently realistic in today’s climate. Especially if strong links can be made with existing SketchUp users as seamless integration would reduce new software skills to be developed.
Other applications of GE can be investigated including its migration onto mobile devices such as Apples iPhone and iTouch.
Please View http://www.google.com/mobile/apple/earth.html
As mobile technology becomes more stable and able to handle more intense information, the opportunity to view GE content while on site has great potential to view existing and proposed designs.
Although GE remains a free download on iPhone / iTouch the use of such mobile technology would be dependant on cost and investment into the mobile device itself. This would require time for existing mobile devices to be replaced with as the current benefits of this service would not warrant the outlay of cost for this service.
This service doesn’t not currently incorporate file sharing and 3D model import. Once this is integrated as the main application stronger benefits will be clearly supported.
Google are currently developing the use of GE into existing web browser technology. The main aim is to incorporate GE into websites, thus alleviating the need to run GE as a separate download.
The ability to incorporate GE in such a manor would allow potential to gather statistical data regarding feedback from users, amount of users etc. This could be especially useful when presenting ideas to the public, rather than using traditional plans and images they could navigate the design from a website.
e.g. The use of the 2012 Olympic Stadium site could be incorporated into the 2012 Olympic website allowing users to visit the site prior to the opening of the games. This could allow the public to warm to site, thus having a positive effect on the overall impact of the design.
However this could also generate negativity if the reality of the project did not live up to expectation caused by the virtual environment. Further negative aspects of such an example could occur through security issues. If anyone could effectively see entrance / exits and have full knowledge of the site this could generate the ability to enhance possible terrorist attacks, such as the way in which flight simulation software was used as a training device for the September 11th attack on America.
To fully ensure that this proposed solution does indeed address the areas highlighted by users, a staged based approach will ensure that greater focus is paid to developing the most beneficial response. This will ensure minimal costs and time it takes to adopt the service, and ensure that the results are quickly delivered to the market as soon the desired results are achieved.
I have introduced the Google Earth prototype to a number of colleagues and the response was extremely positive. Many of the concepts which where addressed from the user study were seen as a highly successful first step towards creating a user friendly platform to implement VR into working practice.
Responses ranged from,
“Wow, I didn’t know you could do that.”
To,
“So that’s all it takes. . . . let me have a go.”
Although it was important for me to gain feedback from a small focus group, efforts were made to keep the innovation discrete at this point. Full presentation of this prototype will be introduced after final amendments.
Posted by cwayling 