A 3D model is a digital representation of an object, product, or scene created using computer software. In e-commerce, 3D models allow customers to interact with products in a more immersive way, visualising them from multiple angles and providing a more lifelike experience than traditional product images.
Key Facts
- Interactive Visualisation: 3D models enable customers to view products from every angle, increasing engagement and understanding of the product.
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Using 3D models helps to create a more immersive and realistic shopping experience.
- Boosts Conversion Rates: By providing a more interactive experience, 3D models can help increase add-to-cart rates and reduce returns.
What Is a 3D Model?
A 3D model is a three-dimensional digital representation of an object, created using specialised software. Unlike traditional 2D images, 3D models provide depth, allowing users to interact with and view products from all angles. This is particularly useful in e-commerce, where customers cannot physically handle or inspect items. With 3D models, they can rotate, zoom in, and get a closer look at the product, helping them make more informed purchasing decisions.
Why Is a 3D Model Used?
In e-commerce, 3D models are used to offer customers a more engaging and realistic view of products. For items that require a closer inspection, such as furniture, fashion accessories, or electronics, 3D models allow buyers to visualise how a product looks and feels from every angle. This increased level of detail can lead to higher customer confidence, fewer returns, and better overall satisfaction.
The Role of 3D Models in E-Commerce
3D models have transformed the way customers interact with products in online stores. Instead of static images, 3D models offer an interactive experience that simulates a real-world view. 3D models enhance product pages, making them more engaging and informative by providing an added layer of visual information.
For industries such as furniture, fashion, and consumer electronics, this can result in higher conversions and fewer product returns, as customers can better understand what they are purchasing.
Benefits of Using 3D Models in E-Commerce
There are many benefits to using 3D models in e-commerce. They are useful for helping customers understand products, showing off textures and colours, and, with the advent of augmented reality (AR), placing virtual products into users real-time environments.
Here are some of the common benefits cited by e-commerce brands and shops that include 3D models in their content strategies:
Increased Engagement
Customers spend more time interacting with product pages when 3D models are available. The ability to view items from different angles encourages deeper engagement and exploration.
Improved Product Understanding
3D models help customers better understand a product’s size, shape, and features, reducing uncertainty and enhancing their confidence in the purchase.
Lower Return Rates
Since 3D models give customers a more accurate representation of the product, they are less likely to be surprised or disappointed when the item arrives, resulting in fewer returns.
Higher Conversion Rates
Providing a more interactive and detailed product experience can increase the likelihood that customers will add the item to their cart and complete the purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About 3D Models
How are 3D models created?
3D models are created using specialised software like Blender, Autodesk Maya, or SketchUp. Designers build the model from scratch or convert existing product designs into 3D form by adding textures, lighting, and other details.
What industries benefit most from using 3D models in e-commerce?
Industries that sell complex or high-value products benefit most from 3D models. This includes furniture, electronics, automotive, fashion, and home decor, where customers need a closer inspection of the item before purchasing.
Do 3D models slow down website performance?
While 3D models can require more resources than traditional images, modern web optimisation techniques ensure that they load quickly without compromising website performance. Many platforms use optimised formats to keep load times minimal. Learn how to embed 3D models into websites.
Can customers interact with 3D models on mobile devices?
Yes, most 3D models can be viewed and interacted with on mobile devices, allowing customers to explore products on the go. The quality of the interaction may depend on the device’s capabilities.
How do 3D models improve the customer shopping experience?
3D models offer customers a richer, more detailed view of products, which leads to increased confidence in their purchasing decisions. This reduces uncertainty, improves engagement, and lowers the likelihood of returns.
Bring your product pages to life with interactive 3D models. Contact us to learn how we help brands and retailers create and implement 3D models directly at the digital point of sale.