Entering the free 3D modelling market, currently do dominated by SketchUp, is not to be done lightly. Virtual Developer Software from deveoper3d.com take the ease of use of SketchUp and add a focus purely on layout and visualisation in home.
The aim is to link each model to a local supplier, meaning that you can redesign you home and then order the decor having visualised it first, we think thats kind of a good idea.
The first YouTube movie below provides an overview:
The second movie provides a longer view of various templates and examples:
While we are always unsure of software that is offered ‘free’ with various ‘add in’ packages at cost it is worth trying out.
You can find out more and download the free basic version from developer3d.com/
Nice idea, but as far as I can tell you can’t change the dimensions of the template rooms unless you stump up to pay for a “custom” version, which is a bit unfortunate if you want to model something that already exists.
Did you install the software? I have downloaded it but remain a little hesitant to install it.
http://vbinteractive.com/
http://brandourgames.com/
http://www.developer3d.com/
Is there any reason to be suspicious?
We did – the first install (60Mb) is a 10 min intro video and then there is a second download (30Mb) for the software.
It seemed ok to us, although we agree that being hesitant is wise – it is slightly ‘clunky’ to use but worth a try….
Andy
Hi,
Developer3d here, just a couple of comments re the thread
I understand any hesistation re install – I guess thats the anomous nature of the web, positive fedback is the only way we can overcome the concern.
Secondly I would like to clarify our solution is based on meeting the needs the consumer market, not to compete with mid to high end tools – For many years we where developing a product that allowed far greater freedoms to build well anything really ( more like sketchup ) but this software had a week long learning curve and the feedback was that the average person was not prepared to spend that much time learning new software and hence the fixed template driven approach.
There are 300 room and area templates in the entry level package or send us the plans and we will custom make a massing model temlplate to be populated by the user in the software.
The download is 60 MB that includes the 30 MB and a 10 minute video tutorial. The download has a very limited library of objects and materials, its design to give you a chance to try the product with no time limit and upgrade your library if you are satisfied.
Thanks for the opportunity for your review.
Shane Wallace
A friend introduced me to sketchUp and he’s doing wonders with it. He’s an architect and he uses it make drafts of the designs while he is discussing with he’s client. Could you give me examples of other software so that I could suggest it to my friend?
Nothing works for me. The video won’t stop playing and support wont help. I cannot click on ANYTHING on the screen. Actually their only email was abusive. I think there are better products on the market. No support. Look elsewhere.
The sales and support people of this software are very abusive and abrasive. I downloaded a copy and when things refused to work, I sent in an email asking for assistance. What I got back was an abusive letter from one Shane Wallace, calling me an idiot and other such things… Don’t bother with these guys, your money is better spent elsewhere. If a user has a problem and you respond in anger, it just shows arrogance and unwillingness to accept the fact that the product is a dud and the company filled with losers.
I had the same experience. This Shane Wallace guy must have psychological problems. I wonder why they employ people with such poor people skill to work in customer service? Perhaps Mr Wallace is the boss? Such behaviour equals committing business suicide!
Developer3d, don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth. If your organisation is to survive long term, you will need to replace or re-train your support staff. They must be taught, first and foremost, what manners are all about. Next, how to understand client needs, and last but not least, how to handle disputes professionally. A good software will not be good anymore if your support staff never provide customers the opportunity to learn how to make the software work on their PC. A good software that does not work is the same as a bad software. I’m a student at an interior design school. Up to this point, I will not recommend anyone at my school to even try your product simply because they will be abused by your staff.