Software suggestion for newby

[Scott Rucci]

Hi. First time post. New to this. We want to create a tour but cannot use 360 due to security restrictions (can’t show exits to rooms). So we were thinking of using panoramic photos in which the user could scroll left and right but not 360. Also want to put hotspot links over the photos that open a window over top containing more information. What authoring tool should we look into for this? Virtual tour software or just web design software? We would like something templated that doesn’t take web design expertise if possible. Thank you in advance for any advice and guidance.

[Jürgen Schrader]

Hello Scott,

to build and present virtual tours it’s highly recommended to use dedicated software. Otherwise you’ll run into big issues regarding the viewer software for panoramic images and creating the interactive elements.

If you don’t have a developer that is familiar with scripting in XML code you’d perhaps want to look at packages that offer a graphic user interface like 3D Vista or Pano2VR. Depending on what you consider a template, both packages offer ready made designs for navigation and to build interactive elements.

However, be aware that there will be a learning curve with whatever package you choose. Limiting the view to a certain angle is no problem at all.

Personally I’m using Pano2VR, as it offers most flexibility for everything one could wish for. But as both packages offer free trial version I recommend you check them both and see which suits your needs best.

Jürgen Schrader

[Eugene M]

Or maybe just give them a video (can make them from 360° photos or panoramas if you already have them) where you control what to show.

[Scott Rucci]

Thanks for the advice guys, I appreciate it.

[Author]

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