What Is 3D Visual Configuration? The Complete Guide & Checklist

Are you considering using an interactive product configurator to enhance your online business or optimize your manufacturing process? This blog is your go-to resource for understanding and maximizing the potential of 3D visualization configuration tools. We'll explain how these tools can benefit your business and your manufacturing activities in simple terms.

Why Businesses Need 3D Product Visualization and Configuration

If you're a business, you need a 3D configurator.

If you're a brand, you need a 3D configurator.

If you sell any physical product…you need a 3D configurator.

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The reason is simple: people are visual creatures. If you've ever tried to buy a product online, you know how frustrating it can be. We respond to things we can see and touch and feel. We don't want to read about your product's greatness — we want to see it.

More than showing people your product in 2D is needed because people want to see what they're buying with their own eyes before deciding whether or not they want it. And if they can't see it? They won't believe it because they don't know what they're getting into.

That’s when 3D product visualization and configuration change the game, offering customers a more interactive shopping experience. If you're like most businesses, you want to make it as easy as possible for customers to find the right products for them, and 3D is ideal for doing that. 

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At their core, visual product configurators with real-time 3D visualizations enable active engagement with the design—customers can configure, zoom, rotate, and view it from angles. This means that they don’t just look at a product but also participate in creating it on their own. The result? This drives more confidence at checkout, fewer returns, and stronger buyer loyalty.

What is a 3D Product Configurator and How Does it Work?

The 2D/3D product configurator software is a product customization tool that enables personalized product design. Customers can adjust features, like materials, sizes, modules, and accessories. More importantly, the 3D product configurator definition goes beyond customization options: its strength also lies in delivering instant 3D visualizations. 

The real result? Customers will have a deeper understanding of the finalized product design. Furthermore, businesses can drive more customer confidence at checkout and reduce returns. 

These capabilities enable digital product configurators to be one of the most influential solutions. From apparel and footwear to furniture and electronics, businesses are taking advantage of them to offer customers unique shopping journeys with bespoke solutions.  

Behind the scenes, visual configuration platforms work by linking a product catalog with a back-end system. The workflow on eCommerce stores is often direct but effective: 

• Select a product
• Configure it with the desired features
• Preview it in real-time 3D visualizations
• Check updated details for price, quotes, and shipping 
• Add to cart and complete the order. 

3D Product Builders vs. Product Customizers: What’s the Difference?

3D product builders and 3D product customizers are two approaches to configurators that companies can use to offer interactive virtual product designs. The main difference between these 3D product design tools for customers is how they help customers handle customization.

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The first type of configurator is a 3D product customizer. This product customization tool lets users choose from preset options when building their custom version of an existing product. For example, you can choose between different colors or materials.

The main advantage here is that it requires less effort on both the designers' and consumers' behalf. They have little freedom but still get exactly what they want!

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The second type of configurator is a visual custom product builder. This tool lets users create unique products from scratch using various customizable options. They can do it by selecting individual components or pre-designed modules with pre-selected components (e.g., colors).

Visual Configure, Price, Quote (Visual CPQ): Instant Pricing and Quoting with 3D Visual Configuration

Visual CPQ software emerges as a game-changer in both B2B and B2C. It seamlessly integrates visualization, pricing, and quoting steps into a cohesive platform. In other words, it combines the power of visual product configuration with dynamic pricing and quoting functions. 

This innovation is now also a new customization feature in the VividWorksPlatform. Many of our eCommerce partners consider it a more interactive way to sell complex, bespoke products. 

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Essentially, these configurable price quote tools support sales teams and customers greatly. Everyone can visualize products in real time, configure them according to specific requirements, obtain accurate pricing, and generate comprehensive quotes—all within a unified interface.

On the other hand, the role of 3D sales configurator platforms in the CPQ process is significant. 

This is not only for real-time product pricing visualization but also for providing a lifelike experience. Customers can interact with 3D visualizations in real-time, gaining a complete understanding of the item’s features and customization options. 

Key Benefits of 3D Product Configurators for eCommerce

A 3D configurator for eCommerce is a strategic decision that can greatly benefit your business. Thanks to the key features of a 3D configurator, like 3D visual configuration, visual CPQ, or integration with existing systems, businesses can set themselves apart from competitors. 

Let’s take a look at just a few benefits of 3D product configurators for your eCommerce store:

Offer product visualization

With interactive 3D product viewers, customers can rotate, zoom in, and interact with products from every angle. Compared to traditional 2D images, this provides a more comprehensive understanding of the finalized products. 

Boost conversion rates

Customers with access to digital product personalization are much more likely to convert into paying customers than those without this feature. It is because they can create a desired product design on their own, as well as see how their purchases will look before closing deals. 

Speed sales cycle

How long does it take on average for someone to purchase something from your online store? Is it three days? Three weeks? Three months? Shoppers won't need to wait around for weeks while you make their custom product; they'll be able to see it right away!

Increase average order value (AOV)

A 3D configurator encourages customers to explore more product options, upgrades, and add-ons. As a result, shoppers tend to spend more than they originally planned. This further results in a higher average order value (AOV).

Embrace financial benefits

This tool proves your commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. As a result, businesses and sellers can ultimately drive revenue growth and position their brands as industry leaders.

Enhance customer satisfaction

Customers enjoy using 3D configurators as they help them feel like they're shopping in person instead of online. These 3D product customization experiences are: Customers see what they're purchasing and try out different combinations before making any decisions. This hands-on approach makes the process enjoyable and leaves customers more satisfied.

Reduce abandoned carts

A 3D configurator creates an interactive 3D product customization online journey. Shoppers can easily adjust features, compare options, and instantly see the results. This can strengthen their emotional connection to potential purchases and lower their chances of cart abandonment.

Book a free 3D configurator demo to see how 3D visual configuration empowers your store! 

Shopify 3D Product Configurator Apps for Custom Sales Growth

Shopify has revolutionized the world of eCommerce by offering a user-friendly platform. One of the ways that Shopify stands out is its wide variety of plugins to help drive conversion, optimize SEO, and boost customer experiences. 

One app category that has become particularly popular is the Shopify custom product builder. And 3D customization is also considered a 3D eCommerce trend in made-to-order industries.

Online store owners can use Shopify 3D product configurators to sell a wide variety of products. They can range from custom jewelry to high-end design furniture, and even complex machinery.

These Shopify 3D customization apps offer a clear value proposition for businesses looking to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. They provide a personalized shopping experience that drives sales and customer loyalty. Some companies have already started to see the benefits of this implementation in their stores.

For instance, Elltek Systems from the UK saw a 25% increase in custom sales compared to our standard configurations. In 90% of orders, people designed their own products and bought them with VividWorks 3D configurator. Shoppers can literally order items without any communication. 

This showcases why it’s considered one of the best 3D configurators for Shopify stores. Notably, it embeds rule-based configuration to reduce errors when customizing highly modular furniture. 

WooCommerce Product Configurator: Customization Plugins for WordPress

Just like Shopify store owners, brands running on WooCommerce can also gain advantages from using 3D configurators. Since WooCommerce is built on WordPress, many of these tools with WooCommerce 3D customization are available as WordPress product configurator plugins. It is excellent to give store owners the flexibility to offer customers personalized experiences.

WooCommerce store owners can break free from the constraints of traditional product presentations and embrace a dynamic, interactive way that resonates with modern consumers. 

Picture this: a customer visiting a WooCommerce store to purchase a piece of furniture. With a traditional setup, they might browse through a selection of images, trying to envision how each piece would fit into their space.

But with 3D WooCommerce customizers at their fingertips, they can bring their vision to life in real time. They can experiment with different upholstery options, adjust the dimensions to fit their room perfectly, and even visualize how the piece will look from every angle. This level of product personalization in eCommerce effectively builds confidence in purchase decisions. 

Magento Product Configurator Extensions for Custom Products

One of Magento's key advantages is its thriving ecosystem of plugins and extensions. When it comes to product customization, there is a wealth of plugins tailored for customizable products. 

The availability of different plugins means that you can find a Magento customization plugin that aligns with your specific needs and goals. Whether you're looking for a simple, plug-and-play option or a more advanced Magento product builder that can integrate seamlessly with your existing systems, there's a plugin out there to suit every requirement.

Read our  Magento product configurator guide to explore the top options and best practices!

Augmented Reality (AR) in Product Configuration and CPQ

AR has revolutionized eCommerce by bridging the gap between virtual and physical shopping experiences. With AR product configurators, customers can virtually test out products in their own space before making a purchase.

Want to visualize how a new table will look in your living room? Just point your phone and watch it appear as if by magic. It's like having a virtual showroom right at your fingertips, revolutionizing the shopping experience to be more engaging and interactive than ever before.

When applied to the configure-to-order process, AR takes the CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) to the next level. Instead of relying on text descriptions, customers can make informed decisions online about even the most complex products by visualizing them in their own environment. 

Furthermore, this innovative approach minimizes the need for detailed specifications and reduces misunderstandings. That’s why many designers value 3D configurators with built-in AR, as they can ensure product previews look flawless and offer true-to-life experiences.  

In addition, many AR shopping tools can provide valuable data insights for businesses. As a result, they can track customer interactions and preferences to optimize their CPQ strategies.

In short, augmented reality eCommerce is reshaping the online market. It makes shopping more immersive for customers while supporting businesses in driving efficiency. 

3D Product Configurators for B2B and Manufacturing Industries

Without a doubt, a 3D product configurator is the future of manufacturing. Configurable 3D models will change how people shop for products. This site is for manufacturers who want to make more sales on the web, and manufacturers have started to realize this fact.

Using 3D configurators for manufacturers to sell products online can benefit them in many ways. One of the most significant advantages is that it can speed up the quoting and ordering process, making it quicker and easier to create custom products for customers.

By using a B2B product configurator, manufacturers can provide a more accurate estimate of a product's cost and delivery time. 3D configurators can also help manufacturers better control costs and inventory. This is because they can more easily predict demand and ensure that they have enough materials on hand to meet that demand.

Finally, these industrial product customization tools can improve their capabilities. Thanks to offering 3D visualization in manufacturing, they help businesses create products more tailored to their customers' needs while providing immersive, clear previews. 

“Customes no longer need to contact us for quotes - they can do it all on their own. The time savings have been huge for both our sales team and our clients” - Camilla, Director of Marketing of Grand + Benedicts, a trusted B2B company adopting a 3D configuration tool for sales growth on their custom store fixtures, particularly its Lozier Gondola Shelving systems. 

How to Implement a 3D Product Configurator in Small and Medium Businesses

Implementing a 3D configurator requires careful planning, technical expertise, and a keen understanding of your target audience. Here are the main paths that SMBs should consider: 

1. In-house development: 

Some businesses choose to develop their own configurators in-house, leveraging the expertise of their IT teams. This approach offers flexibility and potential cost savings but requires significant time, resources, and ongoing maintenance.

2. Spreadsheet-based tools:

Using spreadsheets, such as Excel, may work for simpler product configurations, but they often prove insufficient for more complex scenarios. They can quickly become cumbersome and limit flexibility.

3. Third-party vendors: 

Many SMBs turn to specialized product configurator integration vendors. This reduces technical risk and accelerates implementation, but pricing plans vary widely depending on features such as Visual CPQ integration, AR support, or 3D room planning. Thus, it’s essential to compare 3D configurator pricing plans carefully before committing. Besides that, common pitfalls to avoid: 

• Underestimating integration timelines
• Skipping QA across browsers and devices
• Failing to align key stakeholders early on for budgets, customization options, and more. 

Ultimately, choosing between build vs buy configurator approaches depends on your resources and how you want to deliver the customer product configuration journey. For SMBs that sell complex, modular products without dedicated teams, partnering with vendors is a great option. 

Read more: The Implementation Checklist to building 3D configuration tools

Choosing the Best 3D Product Configurator for Your Business

Choosing a 3D configurator is a strategic decision for businesses seeking to streamline their sales processes and enhance the customer experience. With various 3D configurator options available, it is essential to consider the features and capabilities that align with your demands. Apparently, we will not have the best product configurator software; we just have the best suit.  

Below are factors to consider to fully ultilize the 3D product customization platform’s capabilities: 

• The ease of integration with existing business systems
• Customization options available
• Compatibility with different devices and browsers
• Analytics and reporting capabilities
• Vendor support and training options. 

How to Integrate a 3D Configuration Tool into Your Tech Stack

Integration of visual configuration tools into a company's tech stack requires planning across both business and technical dimensions. Below is what you should prioritize for the best results:  

Compatibility

You need to ensure the eCommerce integration product configurator works seamlessly with your platform, such as WooCommerce, Magento, Shopify, and back-office systems. 

For technical managers, consider choosing the 3D visual configuration software that supports: 

• API connections for smooth data exchange
• ERP/CRM integration for customer and order management
• Bill of Materials (BOMs) export for manufacturing workflows

Besides that, technical teams should pay attention to gITF, the most widely adopted format for visualization, a fundamental of introducing 3D product configurators. If you’re wondering what is gITF format?, It’s an open-standard file for the efficient transmission and loading of 3D models. 

Unlike other 3D model files, glTF is optimized for the web, making it lightweight and fast to load. For a deeper understanding of these visual file types, check our guide to 3D model formats. 

Communication and training

Let’s ensure all teams involved in configurator implementation should be well-trained and informed about its functionalities and features. Sales, marketing, and other support staff should clarify how to use the 3D configurator software for business and how to explain it to customers. 

Ongoing optimization

• Regularly analyze usage data and conversion metrics.
• Test new features to enhance both sales growth and customer experience. 

Resource allocation

• Allocate the necessary resources and attention to detail during the integration process.
• Assign ownership to avoid bottlenecks and ensure accountability. 

Monitoring & testing 

• Monitor server loads to prevent downtime.
• Regularly test the configuration tool to identify and resolve any performance issues. 

Feedback collection

• Collect feedback from internal teams and end-users
• Use insights to identify areas for improvement and ensure a smooth integration process.

By considering these factors, businesses can effectively integrate a 3D configurator into their tech stack, improving their sales process and enhancing the overall customer experience.

Case Studies: Real-World Success with 3D Product Configurators

These product configurator examples illustrate how established businesses are leveraging these tools to offer unique shopping experiences. They also get other brands inspired by their own success stories in eCommerce. Right now, it’s time to take a look and evaluate with us! 

• Case study #1: Finnsofat 3D Sofa Configurator

Finnsofat’s customer story shows the power of adopting the VividWorks 3D Product Configurator. With this tool, shoppers can design their ideal modular sofa, adjusting dimensions, materials, and modules while viewing real-time 3D visualizations.

VividWorks: 3D Sofa Configurator for Finsoffat 

Once the perfect design is ready, a simple QR code scan with smartphones lets customers place the sofa directly in their living room using augmented reality. As a result, the company offers a great way to customize and order with confidence—all of the comfort from your space. 

• Case study #2: Lundia 3D Shelving System Configurator

Lundia is a leading Finnish design brand that uses our 3D shelving system configurator as a key tool for their stores and retailers. In addition to a written price quote, the customer can take home a clear image of their chosen assembly, complete with measurements. The image is impressive, and viewing the product helps customers to make a purchase decision. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0SuFTxueX4&t=25s 

• Case study #3: BEDD Plant Boxes Configurator

BEDD, a Norway-based furniture company, decided to use VividWorks 3D Configurator to sell custom garden and plant boxes. This is one of the most inspiring 3D configurator case studies because it brought significant improvements for BEDD. They include increased sales to professionals, better planning for large solutions, higher conversion rates and order values, sales growth for retail partners, and an enhanced shopping experience for customers. 

Introduksjon til BEDD tegneprogram

Conclusion: The Future of 3D Product Configuration in eCommerce & Manufacturing

The VividWorks 3D product configurator is a powerful tool that can help businesses of all sizes to increase customer engagement, streamline the ordering process, and drive sales. Our software can be tailored to meet the specific needs, whether you sell products online or in-store. In this way, we are step by step shaping the future of 3D configurators—transforming how businesses in eCommerce and manufacturing connect their current and potential customers.  

It is a perfect choice for companies that sell highly configurable and tailor-made products with endless combinations. We can help businesses lead the interactive product customization trends by visualizing their products and making online shopping a breeze for their customers.

To learn more about these digital commerce tools and see them in action, let’s contact us today. Our team of experts will work closely with you to understand your business needs and show you how our software can help you achieve your goals 🚀

FAQs

1. What is a 3D product configurator, and how does it work?

A 3D product configurator is interactive product customization software that enables product personalization. Customers can choose colors, materials, or features, and view their selections instantly with 3D visuals. This provides a realistic preview, reduces uncertainty, and boosts confidence in buying decisions.

2. Why should eCommerce businesses use a 3D product visualization tool?

eCommerce brands should use a 3D product visualization platform to leverage the online shopping experience due to a range of benefits. One of the most significant points is that it allows for precise viewing of products from every angle. This increases customer engagement, improves on-site retention, and improves conversion rates and AOV. 

3. What is the difference between a 3D product builder and a 3D product customizer?

A 3D product customization tool that lets users modify existing products using preset options. In contrast, a 3D product builder allows for designing products from scratch. You can select and combine components for a fully unique design. While the former offers ease to start, the latter comes up with maximum flexibility. 

4. How much does it cost to build a 3D product configurator?

The 3D configurator cost for implementation varies depending on the nature of the product, the complexity of the product, and the features you want to build. To better understand the cost of implementing Vividworks, check out our product configurator pricing page and breakdown cost page.

5. Can a 3D product configurator integrate with Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento?

Yes, a 3D configurator can integrate with major eCommerce platforms these days. You can use a Shopify product configurator, a WooCommerce product customizer, or a Magento configurator plugin to offer an interactive 3D visual configuration experience on your store. 

6. How does augmented reality improve the product configuration experience?

An AR product configurator allows customers to visualize products in their real-world environment. To start, customers only need their own smartphones or tablets. This augmented reality eCommerce approach increases engagement and helps buyers make more confident purchase decisions thanks to true-to-life experiences. 

7. What are the benefits of using 3D product configurators for manufacturers and B2B businesses?

A B2B product configurator or manufacturing customization software streamlines complex product design and sales processes, letting clients configure products and close deals faster. Consequently, it reduces errors, speeds up production, improves collaboration between teams, and boosts the B2B customers’ experience by providing interactive previews of custom designs. 

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