Visual configuration software, also known as visual product configurators, shows sales representatives visualizations of custom-configured products with the customer’s selected features represented. The visualizations are tied to predetermined configuration models, allowing only feasible configurations based off of any functional, technical, business, or budgetary limitations. Many tools allow sales reps and customers to add and remove features directly, with the visualization updating to reflect those changes in real time.
With visual configuration software, companies can easily configure, price, and quote products in a collaborative way that is easy to see via 2D and 3D visualizations. Some tools even offer augmented reality and virtual reality functionality, allowing customers to see the product in their environment. Customers and sales reps are able to see a representation of the finished product prior to purchasing, increasing service levels and buyer confidence.
These tools are often used in manufacturing, engineering, and industrial settings. Visualizations can also be embedded in e-commerce stores to empower customers to take product configuration into their own hands. While some visual configuration products are standalone, most are part of an overall CPQ software solution.
To qualify for inclusion in the Visual Configuration category, a product must:
- Enable the design and visualization of products in 2D and/or 3D
- Allow for the addition of features in line with non-visual configuration models
- Offer visual configuration as a native function of the tool, not via an integration
