Abstract
This paper presents the PECI framework—comprising Presence, Embodiment, Consistency, and Immersion—as a structured design model for developing intelligent, user-centered interfaces in warehouse management systems (WMS). Addressing the increasing complexity of warehouse operations and the cognitive burden imposed by conventional touchscreen interfaces, we explore how augmented reality (AR) can improve usability and performance through embodied interaction. We conducted a mixed-methods within-subjects study comparing an AR glasses-based interface, designed using PECI principles, with a traditional mobile touchscreen WMS application. Twenty warehouse employees completed standardized picking tasks with both systems. Quantitative results show that the PECI-informed AR interface significantly improved task completion speed, reduced error rates, lowered cognitive workload (NASA-TLX), and achieved higher usability (SUS) and experiential ratings. Thematic analysis of think-aloud and interview data revealed key experiential themes aligned with the PECI dimensions, including enhanced flow, natural interaction, and reduced mental effort. This study contributes empirical validation of the PECI model as a design framework for immersive industrial systems and offers actionable insights for advancing human-centered design in AR-enabled enterprise environments.
Keywords
PECI Model; Warehouse Management System; Augmented Reality; User Experience
DOI
https://doi.org/10.21606/iasdr.2025.818
Citation
Xia, L., Li, X., Fan, J.,and Fan, L.(2025) Designing AR-Based Warehouse Management Systems Using the PECI Framework: A Comparative User Study of Interface Performance and Experience, in Chang, C.-Y., and Hsu, Y. (eds.), IASDR 2025: Design Next, 02-05 December, Taiwan. https://doi.org/10.21606/iasdr.2025.818
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Conference Track
Track 3 - Design, Art & Technology
Designing AR-Based Warehouse Management Systems Using the PECI Framework: A Comparative User Study of Interface Performance and Experience
This paper presents the PECI framework—comprising Presence, Embodiment, Consistency, and Immersion—as a structured design model for developing intelligent, user-centered interfaces in warehouse management systems (WMS). Addressing the increasing complexity of warehouse operations and the cognitive burden imposed by conventional touchscreen interfaces, we explore how augmented reality (AR) can improve usability and performance through embodied interaction. We conducted a mixed-methods within-subjects study comparing an AR glasses-based interface, designed using PECI principles, with a traditional mobile touchscreen WMS application. Twenty warehouse employees completed standardized picking tasks with both systems. Quantitative results show that the PECI-informed AR interface significantly improved task completion speed, reduced error rates, lowered cognitive workload (NASA-TLX), and achieved higher usability (SUS) and experiential ratings. Thematic analysis of think-aloud and interview data revealed key experiential themes aligned with the PECI dimensions, including enhanced flow, natural interaction, and reduced mental effort. This study contributes empirical validation of the PECI model as a design framework for immersive industrial systems and offers actionable insights for advancing human-centered design in AR-enabled enterprise environments.