What content you need before starting a virtual reality project
before starting a VR project, it is worth gathering the starting content: 3D models or CAD designs, plans and measurements, reference photographs and videos, a script or procedure, text and voice-overs, brand identity and legal permissions. The more complete that material is, the faster and more economical the project will be.
1. Objective and script
Although it is not "graphical" content, it is the most important thing:
- The project objective and the audience.
- Key messages that must be clear.
- The procedure or journey to be shown (in training: steps, common errors, assessment criteria).
2. 3D material
- CAD models of products, machines or facilities.
- 3D models already created for the web, catalogues or marketing.
- 3D scans or point clouds of real spaces.
- Reference textures and materials.
Engineering CAD models usually need to be simplified. A good starting point is to understand what a 3D product model is.
3. Documentation of the space
If the experience reproduces a real place:
- Plans with measurements.
- Photographs of every area, from different angles.
- Videos or 360º recordings.
- Details of signage, equipment and furniture.
4. Documentation of the process (training)
- Manuals, procedures and standards.
- Videos of real work.
- Lists of frequent errors.
- Access to experts who will validate the content.
5. Brand and communication content
- Logos, typefaces and colours.
- Text and translations.
- Voice-overs, or references for tone.
- Music and effects (with the rights).
6. Permissions and legal matters
- Image rights for any people who appear.
- Ownership of the models and the designs.
- Licences for music, fonts and photographs.
- Authorisations to record at facilities.
- GDPR compliance if data is collected.
7. Technical and operational requirements
- The hardware chosen.
- The number of users and the conditions of use.
- Integration with internal systems (LMS, CRM).
- A contact person who validates and takes decisions.
If you do not have all of this
It is not an obstacle: part of an agency's work is to create or reconstruct that material. But it is worth knowing what is missing, because every piece that has to be produced adds time and budget.
Mini checklist
- [ ] Objective and audience defined.
- [ ] Script or journey.
- [ ] CAD or 3D models available.
- [ ] Plans and photographs of the space.
- [ ] Text and translations.
- [ ] Brand identity.
- [ ] Permissions and licences.
- [ ] Hardware decided.
- [ ] A person responsible for the project.
Key ideas
- The starting content determines the timescales and the costs.
- A good script is worth as much as a good model.
- CAD designs are useful, but they require adaptation.
- Check rights and permissions from the start.
- Appoint someone responsible who validates each stage.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start without 3D models?
Yes, but they will have to be created, which adds time and cost.
Is the corporate video I already have useful?
It can serve as a reference, or as part of a 360º experience if it was recorded in the right format.
What about confidentiality?
Sign a confidentiality agreement before sharing sensitive plans or designs.
Who should review the content?
A technical expert from your company, and someone from communications.
More guides on this topic
How to create a virtual reality experience for your company
A process for creating a virtual reality experience: objective, script, 3D content, development, user testing, deployment and measurement. A step-by-step guide.
How to measure the engagement and ROI of a virtual reality experience
Which metrics to use to measure a virtual reality experience: participation, time, completion, learning, leads and return on investment, with examples.
How to organise a virtual reality experience at an event safely
A guide to organising a virtual reality experience at an event or trade show safely: space, staff, hygiene, queue management, health and a contingency plan.