The rush in some simulation circles to do all modelling in 3D is wrong. Whilst 3D augments and delights, it is not essential to the core mathematical analysis. It is the solution that is important and this should be the main concern.

With WITNESS, the philosophy is about fast productive modelling and frankly sometimes a VR representation can get in the way. For example, in modelling a fast food restaurant a simple count of diners on a display can tell if the restaurant has enough tables – it is not necessary to see people sitting at specific tables or to see their food or to see a variety of people to make the model realistic. In 3D, one is tempted to put in more detail which can compromise or make the mathematics more complex than necessary.

Of course, 3D can add a scintillating presentation layer to any model and communicate a message effectively. Therefore this should be done when necessary but not become the primary objective.