The representation of land, buildings, industrial plant and the environment in general has relied on maps or plans, sections, elevations, contours and other drawn devices. The CAD system with its ability to work in 3-D has changed this and professionals are now able to work efficiently in three-dimensional space. We now have the ability to transform three-dimensional surveys and design into realistic 'models' by rendering the data and adding appropriate refinements. These visualisations can then be used to rationalise the design and the relationship between the design and the immediate environment.