Understanding the Project Workflow of a 3D Modeling Studio [guide]

3D modeling has become an investment for most businesses today. It is a process that needs time, effort, and resources to deliver clients the best results. As a result, many businesses outsource their 3d modeling requirements for an effective solution.

The modeling studio has an in-house team that is proficient in using 3D technology. So, outsourcing to these types of studios is convenient and profitable.

Why does one need to know the 3D design studio workflow?

Every company has its work processes organized, which works well for them. 3D design companies are no exception. Understanding workflow helps in good communication and cooperation between the client and company. It helps avoid unwanted delays due to any misunderstanding. No one wants to confront such an issue.

This article is all about how the workflow in a 3D design studio. It is a working guide that we use at the 3D modeling studio for good client communication.

• Step 1: Order Submission

  The client signs up with our modeling studio through the website and submits the order. The client gives all the required files during the sign-up process. We provide a catalogue design that helps the customers to make their choices if they are unsure of the model designs.

• Step 2: Set Project Goals

  After starting the project, we contact the customer and assign them a project manager. The manager provides the customer with all project updates. Here, we set the deadlines for the project.

  It is more of a project definition phase whereby we do,

  • Define scope
    We define the project requirements, expected deliverables, budget, and delivery date. There are meetings scheduled with the client to finalize these things.

  • Define timeframe
    We produce and share a work schedule of the project with the customer.

  • Define plan
    Our studio provides a project plan and other formal plan documents to the customer.

  • Ask questions
    Also, the project manager interviews the customer and asks them a few questions such as:

    • What is the future use of 3D visualization models or apps?
    • Is any modification necessary?
    • What is the expected polygon count?
    
    

    These types of questions help deliver results in a short turnaround time without reworks.

• Step 3: Modeling and Texturing

  Now, after the discussions, the actual design process starts. The project manager gives the project to the design team that starts working on the project.

  First, the team sits down and brainstorms design concepts and then sketch visuals. They develop 3D models and texture the surfaces. The studio sends the mock-up for client-approval.

  The designers create a 3D object with a few modeling techniques such as:

  • Boolean modeling
  • Digital sculpting
  • Box modeling
  • Laser scanning
  • NURBS
  • Subdivision

  Boolean

  The modelers create the geometry of an object by combining two to come up with a new one. They cut one out of another, or combine both, or use the intersection space as the new object. It does not find application in the entertainment industry.

  Digital sculpting

  This digital sculpting technique has close similarities to real-time clay modeling. It has helped many 3D artists to be creative and overcome the restrictions of 3D modeling. They produce high-resolution models that need conversions into low-resolution for real-time applications.

  Box/Primitive

  This Box modeling technique helps designers to create quick basic shapes. Experts start with a cube shape and then draw out physical features to shape the body parts. Later, some detailing enhances the shape of the model.

  Laser scanning

  The progression of laser scanning technology paved the way for this 3D modeling technique. Here, a real-time object is laser-scanned to generate a 3D representation. It is a fast process, but the shapes need clean up before using it in real time.

  NURBS

  Nurbs is a spline modeling type that helps to produce smooth and rounded curves. This 3D model is popular in the architecture design and product visualizationindustries.

  Subdivision

  It is the best technique to create 3D environment models with fine detailing. The experts first define the form, subdivide it, and add more polygons for extra detailing. It is a modeling type that looks great during the renders.

  Texturing

  The objects generated from the 3D models look grey by default. They need coloring and surface attributes corrections that meet real-world designs. A 3D wooden table should match the color and textures of a real-world model and the texture artists do it. The objective is to make it look realistic when rendered.

  Common 3D rendering techniques

  3D texturing conveys three significant properties of the surface in a three-dimensional setup.

  • Light effects
    In real life, we can sun-exposure effects such as reflection and refraction. The texture artist applies these properties to the 3D object material in the 3D space.

  • Material
    The texture artists show the viewers what the 3D object material is made of, which is their prime aim.
  • Secondary details
    The addition of fine details in the modeling stage could be burdensome for the 3D program and the artist. Here is where 3D texturing proves to be an effective solution. The texture artists create details such as wrinkles and scars without burdening the system resources.

  Different textures and texture mapping help create a life-like model in the 3D world.

  After presenting the clients this model, we receive feedbacks that get noted down. The team then edits, deletes, , and makes the corrections as required.

• Step 4: Corrections

  3D modeling is a process that requires many real-time items for their project. When modelers don’t have the objects, they have to leash out their creativity to add the fine details. It is a cumbersome task that needs hard labor.

  But it is a crucial stage of the 3D modeling that ensures the best project results. Hence, they stick to the following steps to have flawless working models.

  • Reviewing models
    Designers test the 3D models for errors or bugs that happen during the motion or renderings.

  • Finding the occurrence of interference
    When two entities overlap in the design space, an interference check gets executed. It prevents conflicts in the complete 3D model.

  • Validation and quality checks
    Here, the model undergoes a sequence of tests. It ensures that the project lives the design, client, and business requirements.

    The feedback from the team and client help track the progress and make corrections. It is a process that saves the time and effort of the team and ultimately erases the tiring reworks.

• Step 5: Project Completion and Delivery

  Upon corrections, the modeling studio performs a specific set of actions mentioned below:

  • Fixing clash issues
    The workings of the 3D project clash and interfere with each other at some point. The team fixes the conflict and cleans them before sending them to the final stage of delivery.

  • Finalization
    Whenever there is a bug or error in the prototypes of the 3D models, they get fixed at this stage. They also receive quality enhancement touches for the final delivery.

  • File conversions
    The final deliverables get converted into file formats such as OBJ, FBX, and STL. It gets done according to the industry-specific needs of the client.

Now, the company delivers the project to the client. The studio also offers visualization and product feature animations to customers. It is an area where 3D modelers excel.

3D Modeling in simple steps

Many tend to get confused with the 3D modeling and rendering process. The following steps outline the differences for better understanding:

• The 3D experts scan the real-time objects and then create data points to represent them in a 3D form. Then the 3D models get drawn based on the concepts using the related tools.
• The texture artists add the needed lighting and texture. Then they use software such as Maya, Sketchup, and Blender to come up with renderings.
• The images that are generated get used across several visual forms in diverse industries.
• In short, 3D modeling is the initial process of creating an image. 3D rendering is the process of building the final image.

Knowing the work process helps. But picking the right 3D design company that suits your industry is also significant. The following section will guide you through that process.

What industries benefit from outsourcing 3D modeling services?

Today, every industry has started realizing the potential of visualization with 3D modeling. We have provided a list of industries that use this modeling technique to witness growth.

• Aeronautics and Aerospace

  Use case: Prototyping and Visualization

  Software used: CATIA, Sketchup

  The 3D modeling software helps deliver technical designs for plane safety.

• Marketing and Advertising

  Use case: Virtual Rendering

  Software used: Maya

  The product model gets tested before manufacturing, which reduces manufacturing costs.

• Automotive

  Use case: Car Design

  Software used: AutoCAD

  The software programs help to design and prototyping mechanical systems, engine redesigns.

• Retailers/Ecommerce

  Use case: Retail Goods

  Software used: Blender

  Consumers can see the products such as furniture, apparel, and cosmetics from all angles. They can also click on the products for more information during a purchase.

• Interior Design

  Use case: Color, Texture

  Software used: Sketchup, Maya, 3DsMAx, Blender

  The designers can present excellent 3D renderings for their clients. It helps them check the designs and make an informed decision.

• Gaming

  Use case: Video games

  Software used: Maya, 3DSMax

  Many modeling software helps the designers to come up with realistic games.

• Architects

  Use case: Realistic visualizations of interiors and exteriors

  Software used: Maya, Sketchup

  The 3D building model can be used in virtual tours, walkthroughs, and 360-degree views of the property.

3D Modeling Checklist for Buyers

Are you planning to outsource 3D modeling services? The following checklist helps to find the best service provider in the market:

• Portfolio check

  The buyer can know about quality and find out whether it aligns with their requirements.

• Location and Working hours

  Sometimes personal interaction might be necessary. So, check the time compatibility for better communication.

• Experience

  Here, the buyer can look at the number of years that the service provider has been operating. It is a good marker of the company’s expertise.

• Staff interaction

  The buyer can know about the employees with whom they will be working and their skill level.

• Pricing

  The buyer can ask the vendor to provide a signed estimate of all the costs.

• Delivery time

  The vendor should provide the customer with a clear schedule of the project plan. It should also include the date of delivery.

• ISO Quality Certifications

  The buyer can go with a service provider who has a 9001 ISO certification. A company with this certification provides consistent services that meet international standards.

• Guarantees

  Make sure that the service contract encompasses guarantees for delivery, quality, and service.

• Data Security

  Make sure that the company takes extra measures to protect confidential data.

We hope that this comprehensive guide will help you understand the work process of a 3D design company. Are you yet to pick the right company that suits your modeling requirements? Give our 3D modeling services a try today, which will enhance your business growth.

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