Several industries use some kind of 3D modeling software on a daily basis. 3D models represent an object purely using several connected points in space, essentially making them a collection of data. They are used in several industries, from the entertainment business to the medical field, and many businesses in between. Thus, having 3D software is crucial for most companies.

Whether you just want to check out 3D web design or need to use 3D web modeling daily for your company, you should first find out which modeling program would best benefit your business. You need to:

1. Select among the many 3D modeling tools best suited to the entertainment industry.

2. Choose a 3D modeling program that is directed towards the medical field.

3. Find the perfect 3D program for the architectural business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Select a 3D modeling design that was developed for the entertainment business

Many movie studios and video game companies alike use 3D modeling programs heavily in order to create animated films, detailed action sequences, or video game characters and environments. You have several choices when checking out modeling programs specific to the entertainment industry. If you need animation, Houdini is great for this purpose, and has been used in recent animated films. If you need general special effects, both Maya and LightWave 3D have been featured in several popular films and television shows. For movies or games that need several characters modeled in the background, Massive is known for its ability to create backgrounds full of characters that are seemingly independent from each other. This is just a sampling of the most popular modeling programs used in entertainment.

I recommend: MacMall carries Newtek LightWave 3D, which is best for special effects. TNT Warehouse offers Autodesk Maya Complete 2008, which is great for those who work in movies, television, or video games.

Take advantage of 3D modeling services in the medical field

If your doctor's office does not yet employ 3D modeling, it is time for you to update your medical practice. You can use such programs for image processing, accurate measurements, and educating patients and new staff. 3D-Doctor and MedicView 3D Graphic Station are just two programs that specialize in such applications. Javelin 3D is also capable of such benefits.

I recommend: Download a trial version of 3D-Doctor from Medicexchange. Download a free demo of MedicView 3D Graphic Station from the MedicView website, and use it up to 30 times for free.

Find 3D modeling tools best for the architecture industry

As an architect, you already know how important planning is in this business. The ability to see projects before they are built is priceless, and obtaining the appropriate 3D CAD modeling software is helpful. The modeling program formZ is known for its ease of use and the control it gives those in the architecture business to view projects from start to finish. SolidWorks and ViewBuildUSA also allow architects to view their projects in 3D space.

I recommend: ViewBuildUSA offers ViewBuildUSA Professional Version 3.6 on its website, along with many other related products. Novedge carries formZ 6.6 for professional architects.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Most 3D web design software requires up-to-date computers, so make sure you have the minimum requirements before purchasing a particular program. The requirements are typically listed at the bottom of the page after the product description, or on the software box.