The 3D Frontier: Insights on XR Technology with VNTANA’s Ashley Crowder

Welcome to another insightful episode of the SoCal Edge Podcast. This week, we had the pleasure of chatting with Ashley Crowder, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of VNTANA, a trailblazing force in 3D asset management and XR (Extended Reality) solutions. Ashley shared her journey from engineering school to leading VNTANA, and the transformational impacts VNTANA is having on industries from retail to heavy machinery.

Introducing Ashley Crowder and VNTANA

Connect with Ashley
Visit VNTANA

Ashley Crowder is a visionary entrepreneur with a background in industrial engineering from USC. Her passion for 3D and XR technology was sparked early in her career through a federally-funded research project at the university. Fast forward, and she's leading VNTANA, which offers innovative solutions that simplify and enhance how businesses manage and visualize 3D assets.

The Evolution of VNTANA

VNTANA started with a focus on location-based holographic experiences, quickly gaining traction with high-profile clients like Lexus, Pepsi, and infrastructure companies. Their early success laid the groundwork for developing a cutting-edge platform that empowers clients to manage 3D assets efficiently. The pivot to the software side in response to increasing online engagement needs, especially during COVID-19, proved critical.

Empowering Brands with 3D Solutions

VNTANA's platform is designed to meet the diverse needs of manufacturers and consumer brands, offering streamlined 3D model management that can be easily visualized across devices and platforms. Ashley discusses how they cater to companies like Puma and Kohler, helping them overcome challenges with 3D file sizes and formats, ultimately enhancing online consumer engagement.

The Growing Demand for 3D and AR Strategies

Ashley highlights the growing necessity for brands to adopt robust 3D and AR strategies. She explains how companies can leverage these technologies to gain competitive advantages, as evidenced by increased sales and engagement metrics for those utilizing 3D solutions. VNTANA facilitates this shift by providing the tools needed to optimize and automate the transformation of complex 3D files for various applications.

Innovative Flexibility with Model Ops

At the core of VNTANA’s offerings is their Model Ops system, a flexible cloud-based solution that streamlines 3D model operations for diverse industries. Ashley explains the system's capacity to accommodate different input formats and requirements, demonstrating how VNTANA adapts to various client needs without extensive customization, ensuring seamless integration and operation.

Web XR and the Future of 3D Experiences

A significant part of VNTANA's strategy involves Web XR, which allows for cross-device access to 3D content, enhancing the experience whether through computers, phones, or headsets. Ashley shares insights into how VNTANA is positioned to be at the forefront of this technological advancement, working with leading tech giants to democratize access to 3D on a wide scale.

The Impact of AI and Strategic Collaborations

Ashley also sheds light on how VNTANA integrates AI to enhance their platform’s efficiency and capabilities. Collaborations with AI technology firms and giants like Nvidia are driving innovations in digital twin and simulation models for manufacturers, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in 3D asset management.

Navigating Market Challenges and Opportunities

While global economic uncertainties pose challenges, Ashley remains optimistic about VNTANA's growth. She underscores the potential for 3D technologies to transform industries by reducing costs and improving efficiency – even as companies navigate geopolitical shifts and supply chain disruptions.

The Road Ahead for VNTANA

VNTANA is set on a growth trajectory aimed at becoming the standard backend for 3D platforms. By expanding partnerships and enhancing platform capabilities, they are well-positioned to lead the market in 3D asset management and visualization.

Final Thoughts: The SoCal Edge Advantage

Ashley reflects on how starting VNTANA in Southern California, with its rich network of creatives and technical talent, has been instrumental to their success. This vibrant ecosystem, coupled with strong ties to USC, has provided VNTANA with a unique advantage in the competitive landscape of innovative technology solutions.

Ashley Crowder’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and adaptability in bringing futuristic technologies to life. VNTANA continues to shape the future of 3D and XR technologies, proving that with the right tools, the possibilities are limitless. For businesses looking to leap into the next dimension of consumer engagement, VNTANA offers the roadmap and expertise to succeed.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:25 Ashley's Background and VNTANA's Early Days

02:37 VNTANA's Evolution and Key Milestones

03:41 Challenges and Solutions in 3D and AR Strategies

08:43 WebXR and VNTANA's Role

12:41 AI Integration and Future Prospects

18:21 The Challenge of 3D File Interoperability

18:58 Targeting Mid-Size Enterprises

19:59 Pricing and Support Strategies

20:32 Partnerships and Integration

21:37 AI and 3D Technology

24:45 Impact of Tariffs and Trade on Business

27:21 Future of 3D Printing and Digital Rights

29:17 Company Growth and Vision

30:44 Advantages of Starting in LA