How 3D visualisation costs could be Lowered if we explained the 3D process clearer to customers

| Friday, May 27, 2011
By Rosanne Hull


I find as a 3D Visualisation designer that hours can be wasted when the client doesn't understand our ways of working. At the beginning when our business was first taking off we usually soaked up the costs of fixing and editing projects which wouldn't have happened if or client had a better understanding of the 3d process. After spending years cursing the clients up and down when they weren't around we finally realised that problem wasn't them it was us.

At the end of the day it was down to communication errors. We always thought or clients knew or should at least know of the information and details we would need before beginning of the project. As they were not aware of our work progress our clients always presumed they were giving us the what we needed.

If time is taken at the beginning of a project to sit down with all new and existing clients to explain the workflow and how things will pan out it will save everyone time and money in the long run and ultimately end with a much better client / artist relationship.

I have included some things that all 3D Visualisation studios should put into practice.

1. Study the Architectural or Product Plans provided by the client very carefully before submitting your fee for the work. All to often complex architectural details are overlooked that will cost time once the job gets going. Ensure you understand how much time you will have to put into the project and base your quote on this.

2. Decide if the project will need a consultation with the client. If you can't meet with the client in person it is best to have this conversation via a phone call rather than emails. With this time you need to explain the whole process, have the client answer any questions you have and ask for any other information or details you may need (and require it for a certain date). Have a few requirements for the client to follow, such as, you allow them to make 1 set of changes to substances on sight of the first proof, slight changes to colour etc. After the meeting or phone call send an email listing everything you have discussed, this will ensure the client understood everything. Use terms that the client will understand and leave out any technical jargon.

3. Before you start the job make sure you have enough plans, details and materials etc to be able to finish the project.

4. Before starting any job email your client a list of all the materials and plans you have received, you could make this list on an excel spreadsheet. Request that they read the list and confirm you are both working from the same plans and finishing schedules. You will also receive information for the clients architect, sometimes this information may not have looked at by the client and when they see it on your 3D visualisation they may wan to start makign a few changes. They should have the designs and materials finalised if they are paying for images created by the architects plans. So if they want to make change they will be using you as a deign tool and you will have to charge accordingly. This should be charged per hour.

These few steps should help lower cost and save time and also generate a good workmanship between you and your client.




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