CompuServe Messages

Jeff: I guess you sent me the message to "Rick" for my feedback. The considerations of a larger firm/machine that are discussed are valid in my opinion. It is, perhaps, unfortunate that timing doesn't seem to be in sync for the development of PC-based hi-end graphics when most who already have that look are still desperately trying to pay for what they have. It is, though, a classic conflict in this business. No one, NOBODY, should be buying equipment or software with a business plan that assumes more than a two-year payback. There are simply NO exceptions to this rule, in my opinion. Larger houses argue that violating this rule has been the only way to get their hands on the look their clients have demanded over the last few years. That has, until recently, been pretty true. The RenderMan handwriting, however, has been on the wall for AT LEAST two years now, and anyone seriously considering cost-effective hi-end looks has been well-advised to fence-sit. Those who purchased prior to this time period are probably doing alright assuming that their initial business plans were accurate and justified by their client base. I think its often just a matter of fortune. And those who are now in their buying cycles are the ones who will benefit. Even now, though, good arguments can be made for sitting on the fence at least one more year as far as RenderMan is concerned. The software may become released soon for a variety of software products, but the attribute files may not be fully developed for a while to come. It might be somewhat akin to having had an Amiga 1000 in 1987. You knew the power was there, but it had not yet been really tapped. And as for the $$$/sec. on animations: The client market has become considerably more sophisticated in their awareness of value. a $1000/sec. surcharge over what a TARGA system can provide is seldom viewed favorably in any but the broadcast market. Another rule of thumb, I think, is: NEVER consider the system's salesman's estimate of cost/finished second when computing your 2-year payback. You know the one about the difference between a car salesman and a graphics system salesman, don't you?