How to Get Outsourcing 3D Production Right
Working with external studios and freelancers on modeling, texturing and rendering.
Imogen Clarke
Why does it matter?
Outsourcing scales capacity, but only with clear specifications, review points and file standards.
What are the numbers?
- Specifications polygon budgets, naming and formats must be stated
- Review points staged reviews catch problems early
- Rights ownership terms must be written
- Time zones review cycles stretch across regions
What should I do?
- Write detailed technical specifications
- Review at blockout and midpoint stages
- Agree ownership and reuse rights
- Provide reference assets as examples
- Plan review cycles around time zones
What should I avoid?
Avoid:
- Briefs without technical specifications
- First review at final delivery
- Ownership terms left implicit
- Feedback loops that lose a day per round
When should I get help?
Short answer Bring in help when scaling 3D production externally.
Where this comes from
- Khronos Group — glTF 2.0 Specification
- U.S. Copyright Office — Circular 30 Works Made for Hire
The figures and practices above come from the sources listed.
Working on something like this?
We take on 3D Design & Development work for teams who want it done once, properly. Tell us what you are building and we will tell you honestly whether we are the right studio for it. Start a project.
Where to go next
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