In theory, 3D Virtual Reality (VR) models provide numerous benefits to shipbuilders. Many authors have highlighted potential use cases including design review, customer review, supply chain collaboration, project scheduling and shop floor 3D. However, in practice the technology, including generation of the virtual models from existing CAD tools, is too costly, complex, and rigid to be implemented across all segments of the industry. Fortunately, a method now exists to dramatically simplify the creation of VR models, making it practical for more people to utilize VR. This democratization of the technology has made VR’s theoretical benefits a reality.