What comes first – the visualization to begin the communication-planning process or ethical representation? This appears to be the case when ethics and 3D visualization are considered. Those advocating strong ethical approaches built on geospatial tools and data tend to believe that no visual graphics for a project ought to be presented, at least until a building permit is issued or contract signed.

In the opposition is the realization that 3d visualization is part of the planning process, and has exceptional functional benefits at the early stages when ideas, wishes, dreams and the beginnings of design projects are beginning – and when they are being presented for final decision contests.

The application of 3D ethics in design closely follows the initiation of the 3D Chartersigned a few years ago. As that Charter says,

“The third dimension (3D) is undoubtedly a major breakthrough in terms of public policy tools. This covers both land management on a daily basis, understanding that development projects, cooperation between communities, elected officials and citizens, but especially with the decision. This subject concerns the institutional players (public authorities and bodies) and several professions: architects, surveyors, engineers, planners, landscape. It is beneficial for each person who deals with the 3D, that all data used to develop a representation of the “ground” to meet a number of requirements recognized by all stakeholders.”

In the extreme, those advocating that no visual representations should be considered before approval for ethical reasons, seek to ensure ‘true’ representations prevail.

However, the entire design and visualization sector is now on the path toward beginning to understand the wider benefits and advantages for using 3D graphics in the design processes, interactive creative work flows and communication efforts surrounding project proposals and planning.

Cartography can be used as an analogy for this debate. Historically maps have been made for thousands of years, and no map is considered the exact truth — a fact acknowledged by most cartographic professionals today. Instead, they are considered as representations, accorded latitude to represent reality in whatever form the map maker wishes – is talented enough to create.

Imagine a world where only ethically designed and approved cartographic maps existed. It would appear constrained, similar in likeness, lack a certain vibrancy and certainly lack some of the creative art that most of us desire to consume, absorb and become involved in.

In a similar respect, only approved ethical 3D visualization would behave in a similar fashion, robbing many of us of the life that design is supposed to bring.

We need to talk more about design ethics for sure, but not at the expense of losing the very enlightenment, life and breath that differences in representation that 3D could potentially bring.