Just to add to that.. The problem is that Sketchup models are just not suited for this game.
So all "our" vessel development, which is 95% sketchup work, is not really development for this game at all, but just people making ships with Sketchup. No disrespect, because there are very talented people out there, they just use the wrong program, unfortunatly.
So people that use Sketchup, are really not "ship simulator modelers" but "VS modelers" as it is clear from the start that they will only be able to use their model for that game, not SS08. It has been said on many many occasions, Sketchup will not do.. simple as that.
A pity, but that's just how it is. If they were to use the proper software, it would be an alltogether different story. People that make good models, with the right software, and make ships that are feasable for SS08 do have a chance to get their ships in the game, as VSTEP is eager to check them out and if it's a keeper, they will work together with the creator to add the vessel to the game.
But no sketchup model will ever be in SS8. And since 3ds max is about $3500, not many people would buy it. I'm not sure if GMAX (3ds max 'light') would do too, but I have a feeling it might. Though these programs are of course a lot more difficult than Sketchup.
Thus, I don't see enough 'proper' models to justify VSTEP creating a 'test environment'.
And the people that do make SS08 suited models, allready have the tools for the job, they don't need such a system anyway.
And those hardcore tools allready come with plenty of documentation, and there are websites and forums full of tutorials and lessons at everyone's fingertips, no need for some video tutorials, really. Google really IS the best option here, I must say. Why re-write something if there is a ton of info available allready? It only costs time and money, and VSTEP is not responsible for learning people how to model, so why should théy spend time on it whilst newbie developers can just google and find more than enough on the subject?
That's how I see it anyway
Regards,
Fred