Usability heuristics for online virtual worlds

This paper explores a set of usability heuristics developed for the EU FP7 ICT VirtualLife project. The purpose of the project is to create a three-dimensional online virtual world – in the form of a safe, democratic and legally ruled collaboration platform. 3D virtual worlds are a relatively new expression of online communication and collaboration tools. The most essential aspect – usability – still is in tentative phase. Consequently, conventional usability heuristics are not suitable for 3D virtual worlds. The paper identifies major differences between 3D virtual worlds and other online collaboration and communication tools. Specific user needs are discussed considering the users’ real experience, mistakes and problems.