How can you manage feedback on 3D models from clients with limited technical knowledge?

1 Use a common language

One of the first steps to manage feedback on 3D models is to establish a common language with your clients. This means avoiding jargon, acronyms, or technical terms that may confuse them, and instead using simple and descriptive words that they can understand. For example, instead of saying "I used a subdivision surface modifier to smooth the mesh", you can say "I made the shape smoother and less jagged". You can also use analogies, metaphors, or references to familiar objects or scenes to explain your design choices or concepts.

2 Show your progress

Another way to manage feedback on 3D models is to show your progress regularly and frequently to your clients. This will help them see how your work evolves, what challenges you face, and what decisions you make. You can use screenshots, videos, or interactive tools to demonstrate your 3D models at different stages of development. For example, you can use Sketchfab, Marmoset Viewer, or Blender Cloud to upload and share your 3D models online, and let your clients view, rotate, zoom, and comment on them.

3 Ask specific questions

A third tip to manage feedback on 3D models is to ask specific questions to your clients. This will help you get more focused and actionable feedback, and avoid vague or contradictory responses. You can ask questions that relate to the goals, requirements, preferences, or expectations of your clients, and that address specific aspects of your 3D models, such as the shape, size, color, texture, lighting, or animation. For example, you can ask "Do you like the color scheme of the model?", "Is the model too big or too small for the scene?", or "How do you want the model to move or interact?"

4 Provide alternatives

A fourth tip to manage feedback on 3D models is to provide alternatives to your clients. This will help them compare and contrast different options, and give you more insight into their preferences and opinions. You can provide alternatives that vary in terms of the style, level of detail, complexity, or realism of your 3D models, and that show the pros and cons of each option. For example, you can provide alternatives that use different materials, textures, or lighting effects, and explain how they affect the mood, atmosphere, or performance of your 3D models.

5 Set boundaries

A fifth tip to manage feedback on 3D models is to set boundaries with your clients. This means defining the scope, timeline, budget, and expectations of your project, and communicating them clearly and consistently to your clients. This will help you avoid scope creep, delays, or conflicts, and ensure that your clients respect your expertise and professionalism. You can set boundaries by using contracts, proposals, or agreements that specify the deliverables, milestones, revisions, and payment terms of your project, and by being assertive and polite when dealing with unreasonable or unrealistic requests.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?