Three dimensional web design programs are definitely still in the infant/toddler stage of life; however, it is a sector of web design that deserves mention. While in its current stage, some 3D systems still have a certain ‘cheese factor’, there are some interesting and emerging developments to keep an eye on in 2008. Some 3D developments are very advanced and are exciting to watch. These are very high end systems that large companies such as Google and IBM are funding. Some, like PaperVision 3D, are smaller group efforts that, while they are making significant strides forward, aren’t really something that will be incorporated into too many websites right now. However, they are definitely a sector of design that deserves to be watched closely over the next year.

One of the first things that I wonder about regarding 3D design is its relevance to the web as far as design, form, and function are concerned. In many ways, I see it directly conflicting with everything that has become important to the Internet. Web 2.0, along with virtually every other facet of web design today, is centered on simplicity & design. It’s completely focused on the user’s ability to interact with and make use of a website. So, how does the incorporation of 3D fit into this concept? As far as ‘Web 2.0’ is concerned, this is way behind the design times. Another designer aptly described it this way: “It looks like the old Atari systems when compared to X-Box. It has great potential but it’s not there yet.” Most 3D applications are still very slow loading, which is a major turn off to most users. The public is accustomed to quick loading pages. In general, most people won’t stay on the page long enough for it to load. We discussed in an earlier article that as a web designer, you have about 7 seconds to ‘hook’ someone into staying on a website. There aren’t any 3D applications that load in that amount of time. So, at the moment, it’s not something that you would want to incorporate into the home page of any website.

One area that has been benefitting from 3D technology though is the entertainment sector. The open-ended 3D virtual world platform, Second Life, now has over 2.5 million participating accounts. The global market for asset trading, object creation, and services rendered in virtual worlds is estimated at anywhere from $700 million to $2 billion per year. Social networking sites like GaiaX entice their users in Japan into online games and virtual worlds as just one of many social options. The entertainment genre is growing leaps and bounds as far as its use of 3D is concerned. But, how is 3D design being incorporated into the professional and commercial sectors of the web?

Other areas that are rapidly under development are the medical sector, 3D navigation, and online education. In the simulation space, virtual humans are being explored for their online educational ability. 3D navigation systems are emerging in the automotive market in Japan and Europe. Modeling systems like ArcGIS, Google Earth, and SketchUp are allowing us to create “mirror world” versions of physical space. The medical genre is one to really watch. IBM is working on 3D representation of the human body. Imagine walking into to your next doctor’s visit and watching your doctor evaluate the health of your heart in a real time, high resolution 3D visualization. This is one from a list that IBM calls the “The Next 5 in 5.” Read more about their goals here. (http://www.ibm.com/sandbox/homepage/version-b/)

While all of these 3D systems are not the same, they are related. Some are far more advanced than others. For now, while things are still ‘under construction’ in the world of 3D design, I prefer to stick with the KISS (keep it simple stupid) method. Commercial applications for 3D just aren’t quite what they should be for use by web designers in my opinion. I look forward to watching it though and seeing how it continues to be refined. If you see certain uses for emerging 3D programs that I have missed here, please feel free to comment about it. I would enjoy discussing and evaluating your ideas.

DIGG this story