3D Modeling Software, Explained

The real power of point clouds happens once you import them into the right 3D modeling software. Suddenly, you have an almost limitless number of options for how to use and manipulate the data you’ve captured.

The problem is that choosing the right software can be a bit overwhelming. With the investment that some software requires, choosing the wrong one can be costly, both in terms of money and workflow inefficiencies.

In this article, we explore the different types of point cloud software used in construction and mining, categorized by deployment model (open source, cloud-based, etc.) and best use cases.

What To Consider When Choosing The Right Software

Project Size and Complexity: The size and complexity of your project will significantly influence your software decision. Small construction projects may benefit from cloud-based solutions that minimize infrastructure requirements, while large mining or construction operations typically require the processing power and data control offered by desktop applications.


Organizations processing hundreds of gigabytes of point cloud data regularly will likely need professional-grade desktop software, while teams working with smaller datasets may find cloud solutions more cost-effective.

Collaboration Requirements: Projects involving multiple stakeholders, remote team members, or client review requirements benefit from hybrid platforms that facilitate data sharing and collaborative review. Traditional construction projects with centralized teams may find desktop solutions sufficient, while infrastructure projects involving multiple disciplines often require hybrid solutions that support both local processing and cloud collaboration.

Technical Resources: Local installations will generally require either a dedicated IT team for ongoing management or the need to hire a vendor who provides those services under a contract. Organizations without this ability should consider cloud-based options.

Data Security Concerns: If your project requires a higher level of data security or you’re working under a contract that requires specific data protection, then local installations may be your only option.

Open Source vs Commercial Software

When it comes to 3D modeling software, you have several options that are open source. When most people think of open source options, they assume the greatest benefit is the low cost. However, open source provides key technical benefits for specific teams and workflows.

Open-source 3D modeling options allow you to customize the software for your specific needs. Because it’s open source, you can modify the software however you like. There is also a large community of users who have posted their own modifications to the software based on specific industry requirements. The result is that someone may have already created the modification you need for your application.

The downside of open-source 3D modeling solutions is that they offer no formal support. Because of this, open source options work best for teams who already have the technical experience managing a software application completely on their own.

Cloud-Based vs Hybrid Platforms

Cloud-based platforms are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower initial investment costs and the ability to work or collaborate from anywhere in the world. However, with these benefits come a few downsides as well.

Cloud-based platforms can sometimes have fewer customization options than local installs or hybrid options. There can also be certain proprietary formats and workflows that make it hard to share with users outside of the cloud platform you choose. This is sometimes referred to as vendor lock-in, and it can prevent you from easily sharing files in some cases. 

While cloud-based software generally costs less up front, the ongoing costs can be higher due to monthly seat-based pricing. This is especially true for larger teams.

Today, many software vendors such as Autodesk offer cloud-based options for their software. These work as a hybrid platform combining both cloud-based features, along with the ability to work locally if necessary. This expands the functionality of their software and allows teams to leverage the format and workflow that is best for their specific application.

Local and On-Premise Software Options

In the past, many 3D modeling options were 100% locally installed. However, most of the popular vendors, such as Autodesk or Bentley, provide cloud services along with their local options, making them mostly hybrid solutions.

However, certain teams and organizations require a 100% on-premise solution due to security or data privacy concerns. Beyond just privacy, some teams work with incredibly large data sets or point clouds, which simply won’t work efficiently in a cloud-based environment.

In some cases, lifetime costs for on-premise solutions are also lower than hybrid or cloud-based options. The initial costs are higher, but over time, an on-premise solution can start to provide more value due to lower ongoing costs. However, this requires a careful analysis from both an accounting perspective and a technical standpoint as to how often hardware will need to be replaced to stay current.

Software Comparison Chart

Ready to Transform Your Point Cloud Workflow?

Exyn's 3D mobile mapping solutions can streamline your data collection and integrate seamlessly with your preferred 3D modeling software. Book a free demo today and discover how our modular surveying solutions can revolutionize your construction, mining, and surveying projects.