Our Process — From Concept to Completion

A structured 7-stage workflow for 3D visualisation, CAD modelling and engineering analysis — with clear review points at every step.

Every Fireball Studios project follows a clear seven-stage process: Discover, Concept, Design, Visualise, Analyse, Refine, Deliver. Not every project uses every stage — a single architectural render stops after Visualise; a CFD study starts at Design and ends at Analyse — but the workflow is always structured, predictable and transparent. You'll know exactly what happens at each stage, what you'll receive, and when.

Seven stages, one joined-up process

From the first conversation to final delivery — here's exactly how we work.

STAGE 01

Discover

We start by understanding your idea, objectives and constraints. Not just what you want to see, but what the project needs to achieve.

What happens

  • Briefing call or written brief
  • Review of any existing drawings, CAD files or references
  • Scope, deliverable list and timeline confirmed in writing
  • Fixed-price quote agreed before work begins
STAGE 02

Concept

We explore the visual and technical direction. For visualisation work, this means mood, tone, camera angles and lighting. For engineering, it means feasibility and design approach.

What you receive

  • Concept sketches or rough 3D block-outs
  • Proposed camera angles or viewpoints
  • Direction on materials, finishes and lighting
STAGE 03

Design & Model

Detailed CAD models and engineering geometry are built from your source files, sketches or reference material. This stage produces the technical backbone of the project.

What happens

  • CAD and 3D modelling in Blender, 3ds Max or SolidWorks
  • Assemblies, dimensions and engineering detail added
  • Model review against source drawings and specifications
STAGE 04

Visualise

Photorealistic renders, walkthrough animations and interactive 3D experiences are produced. This is where the design becomes something you can feel and share.

What you receive

  • Photorealistic stills at agreed resolution
  • Walkthrough animations or cinematics (where scoped)
  • Interactive 3D viewers built in three.js or Unreal Engine
  • Day / night lighting and material variations where relevant
STAGE 05

Analyse

Where the project requires it, we apply FEA, CFD or thermal analysis to validate performance, safety and efficiency — using engineering simulation rather than guesswork.

What happens

  • FEA for structural and stress validation
  • CFD for fluid flow, heat transfer and thermal behaviour
  • Simulation results interpreted as clear engineering insights
STAGE 06

Refine

Based on analysis results and your feedback, we refine the design. Iteration rounds are structured so feedback flows cleanly and the project keeps moving forward.

What you receive

  • Updated renders or models responding to feedback
  • Clear change log so nothing is missed
  • Design decisions documented for the record
STAGE 07

Deliver

The final package is handed over — everything you need to present, publish, manufacture or submit, in the formats you require.

What you receive

  • Final renders, animations or interactive files
  • CAD files and engineering drawings
  • Technical reports and simulation summaries
  • Prototype-ready or manufacturing-ready assets where relevant
YOUR PROJECT

Not every project uses every stage

A single render stops after Stage 4. A CFD study starts at Stage 3. An interactive configurator might skip Stage 5 entirely. We scope the right stages for your specific brief — nothing more, nothing less.

Structured, transparent, no surprises

Fixed scope, fixed price

Every stage is scoped and quoted upfront. No creeping costs, no unexpected invoices.

Review points built in

You see the work at defined checkpoints — not at the very end. Feedback is captured early, not late.

Single team, no handoffs

The team that scopes your project is the team that delivers it. No outsourcing, no middlemen.

Predictable timelines

Typical projects take 1–3 weeks; interactive and engineering projects 3–6 weeks. We confirm the schedule before starting.

Process questions

Common questions about how projects are scoped, delivered and priced.

Do I need to go through all seven stages?

No. Most projects use a subset. A single architectural render needs Stage 1, 3, 4 and 7. A CFD study uses Stage 1, 3, 5 and 7. An interactive configurator might use Stage 1, 3, 4 and 6. We identify the right stages during the initial scoping call and quote accordingly.

How much does a project cost?

Pricing is based on the stages used, the number of outputs and the complexity of source material. Most projects are quoted as a fixed price after the brief is reviewed. Send your brief to info@fireballstudios.co.uk for a clear quote.

How long does a typical project take?

Small still renders or CAD tasks typically take a few days to a week. Larger visualisation projects take 1–3 weeks. Interactive 3D experiences, animations and combined engineering projects usually take 3–6 weeks. We confirm the schedule before work begins.

How many rounds of revisions are included?

Most projects include two structured review rounds — one after the concept or modelling stage, and one after the initial visualisation or analysis stage. Additional rounds can be added if needed. We confirm the number of rounds during scoping.

Do you work with clients outside London?

Yes. We're based in London and work with clients across the UK and Europe. All reviews, feedback and delivery happen remotely, with regular checkpoints over email or video call. For London-based clients, in-person meetings can be arranged.

What source files do you need from me?

It depends on the project. For visualisation work: floor plans, elevations, sketches, CAD or BIM files, reference images and material preferences. For engineering projects: drawings, specifications, and design intent. If you only have sketches or a rough idea, we can work from that — we'll advise what's needed as the project develops.

Can I pause or stop the process at any stage?

Yes. Our staged workflow means you can stop at the end of any stage and still receive everything produced up to that point. If a concept review reveals the project isn't right, you've only committed to the discovery and concept stages.

What happens after delivery?

We provide all agreed output files in the formats required — images, videos, CAD files, interactive builds and reports. Many clients return for follow-up work, additional renders or new stages as their project evolves. There's no ongoing obligation.

Ready to start your project?

Send us your brief and any source files you have. We'll come back with a recommended set of stages, a timeline and a fixed price — usually within 1–2 working days.

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