The Versatility of 3D Models: A single-source of truth

As customer engagement evolves towards visually rich immersive experiences powered by 3D models, personalization, sound, haptic feedback, and dynamic sites powered by AI, all with a singular goal - extend the user's time on site and drive sales.

Companies and brands are using 3D models as a Single Source of Truth for any product to deliver their visuals across all mediums as a cost-saving measure via the simple act of Create-Once and Re-use Everywhere (CORE).

You can create multiple assets to market your brand with just a single 3D model. Thereby creating efficiency. Here is the most common set of uses:

  1. 3D Viewers
  2. Product Images
  3. Product Configurators
  4. Augmented Reality (AR)
  5. Virtual Try-Ons (VTO)
  6. 3D Ads and OOH Billboards
  7. CGI animations of the product

Let's review the details for each use of 3D models.

Technology Ecosystem Diagram with AdTech, Social Media, Ecommerce, Gaming, VR/XR Hardware, and Prototyping Categories.

1. 3D Viewers: Your product can be viewed from any angle!

  • A common application of a 3D model is using a 3D viewer
  • 3D viewers are different from still images since consumers can examine the product from any angle
  • This feature also allows exploration of any element and detail by rotating and zooming, such as fabric texture, sewing detail on a handbag, or the glimmering diamonds on a beautiful ring

2. Product Images: High-Quality Product Images but cost-effective

  • With 3D modeling, efforts are reduced for businesses to achieve hyper-realistic images of their products from all angles.
  • The advantage of total control of the environment means no weather or talent delays to get the perfect shot.
  • This represents a significant cost saving as well as reduced time to result.
  • Any high-resolution image needed for catalogs, print, or custom resolutions for web and social channels

Yellow Leather Shoulder Bag with Trapezoidal Shape and Gold Hardware.

3. Product Configurators: A personalized product created by each buyer

  • Using the same 3D model in a product configurator allows the brands to enhance the shopping experience
  • A product configurator helps the customer personalize the products according to their preferences
  • Choices can range from choosing the colors of parts of the product or the materials used to providing custom engraving that can be represented live on the product
  • This creates an intimate experience for the customer

Red Leather Shoulder Bag with Trapezoidal Shape and Gold Hardware, Shop Now (Product Page).

4. Augmented Reality (AR): Seeing is believing

  • Leveraging a 3D model through AR, consumers can see a product virtually in their space using their smartphones
  • Be it placing a new chair in the living room or a new desk lamp on the office desk, AR provides a unique interaction that enables the customer to evaluate how well a product fits in their desired space
  • This technology has played a vital role in offering convenience in online shopping

Silver Suitcase (79cm x 51cm x 27.5cm) in Augmented Reality on Smartphone Screen.

5. Virtual Try-On: See it, try it, buy it!

  • A virtual try-on (commonly abbreviated to VTO) is a sub-section of Augmented Reality where customers can virtually try on products such as makeup and fashion accessories.
  • Consumers can point their smartphone camera at themselves to try on products virtually. For example, customers can point their smartphone camera at their wrist to try on a watch virtually!
  • With VTO, users can visualize how any item will appear on them to deliver the ultimate satisfaction.

Hand Holding Smartphone with Ulysse Nardin Watch in Augmented Reality, Try On Watch Virtually.

6. 3D Ads: Grab attention with 3D!

  • The same 3D model can now also be used to create 3D Ad banners
  • These can also be interactive banners where users can interact with the model within the Ad banner before clicking
  • 3D ads allow the potential customers to handle the product on the screen, rotating and manipulating it. Such interactions boost interest and understanding of the product/brand.

7. CGI Videos: Captivating Visuals

  • A 3D model can be animated using CGI to produce a cinematic, visually engaging piece of content.
  • It is worth noting that these videos can be used on different platforms, including social media, websites, and billboard campaigns, making them a great marketing tool

Conclusion

To conclude, the versatility of 3D models as a single source of truth is revolutionizing the way brands engage with customers across multiple platforms. By adopting the Create-Once and Re-use Everywhere (CORE) approach, companies can significantly enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness in their marketing efforts. From interactive 3D viewers and high-quality product images to personalized configurators, augmented reality experiences, and virtual try-ons, 3D models offer a wide array of applications that cater to the evolving demands of modern consumers.

This technology not only provides a more immersive and engaging shopping experience but also allows brands to maintain consistency across various marketing channels. The ability to create captivating 3D ads and CGI videos further expands the reach and impact of product presentations.

As we move forward, the integration of 3D models in marketing strategies will undoubtedly play a crucial role in extending user engagement, driving sales, and ultimately shaping the future of customer interactions in the digital age.