GoMeasure3D logo

Our Story

Transform the Way You Work with 3D Scanning

• Since 1999 •

In honor of our 25th year anniversary celebration, let’s take a look back at how GoMeasure3D started and our vision for the future.

Darryl 3d scanning a car outdoor

Our CEO, Darryl Motley, is holding the Artec Leo handheld 3D scanner. GoMeasure3D has attained the highest standard as an Artec Ambassador since 2020 when the program first started.

How It All Began

In 1999, our CEO, Darryl Motley, was running a thriving architectural millwork business. To manufacture furniture pieces in large quantities on a CNC router, he constantly took measurements by hand. Darryl would then transcribe the measurements into his computer and sketch the design using CAD software. This labor-intensive process of reverse engineering demanded significant time and effort. Recognizing the need to optimize efficiency, Darryl explored his options and found a better solution. Using a portable CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) to collect 3D measurements would drastically speed up his reverse engineering workflow.

Reflecting on his discovery, Darryl remarked, “We live in a 3D space so it makes sense to design in 3D. Replacing 2D measurement devices such as a tape measure, calipers, and hand gauges and instead using an articulating arm to capture measurements in 3D ( X, Y, and Z), the measurement points would be collected directly into my CAD software thus cutting down on the process of translating the measured data. Simply by using a better measurement tool, I was able to cut down my reverse engineering process from 8 hours to under an hour. I was impressed! The accuracy of the device proved itself to be trustworthy, creating a better quality CAD model thus a better machined part.

Darryl continued, “Because of these great results, I wanted to share the benefits of using 3D technology with others. I thought to myself, every engineer needs one on their desk.

Darryl 3d scanning a car outdoor

Darryl Motley uses a portable CMM to take 3D measurements of the car’s side-view mirror for reverse engineering.

Making 3D Scanning Technologies Accessible

A portable CMM collects 3D measurement data of a reference part and creates the new CAD model simultaneously on the computer.

It was then that Darryl realized that digitizing real-world objects in 3D would be a game changer for others facing similar challenges. Set on making this happen, that’s how GoMeasure3D started. Darryl eventually sold his millwork business to pursue his new mission.

“At GoMeasure3D, we understand the challenges businesses face and are here to make a difference. It isn’t just about implementing 3D scanning technology; it’s about empowering companies all across the United States to do their best—making their operations more efficient, manufacturing better products, measuring with confidence, visualizing in 3D, and sparking innovation.”

Darryl Motley CEO, GoMeasure3D

Selling portable CMMs was just the beginning. Fast forward to today, GoMeasure3D sells a vast array of professional 3D scanning technologies—from structured-light handheld and stationary 3D scanners, Lidar 3D scanners, to complementary software including CAD and quality inspection software.

Paul and Alex demonstrate the capabilities of the Artec Leo by 3D scanning a boat. GoMeasure3D has been an Artec reseller for more than eight years.

Darryl’s sons, Paul and Alex, along with his wife Tangie, have been working alongside him in managing the operations of GoMeasure3D. “This year is special because it marks GoMeasure3D’s 25th anniversary. It’s great to look back at the successes, the memories, and the lessons we’ve learned over the years. As a family-owned business, I’m especially proud to work with my family and our staff to continue the mission I started 25 years ago,” said Darryl.

Darryl & Tangie

Virginia’s Region 2000 Technology Council designated the 2013 Entrepreneur of the Year award to Darryl and Tangie.

Looking into the Future

Looking into the future of GoMeasure3D and the 3D scanning industry, Paul Motley, COO of GoMeasure3D, explained, “At GoMeasure3D, we are committed to expanding our product offerings into the growing metrology market, as well as offering more affordable consumer-grade 3D scanning solutions through our online shop.

In 2014, the company started its e-commerce store. The online shop offers affordable consumer 3D scanners, software, and 3D scanning accessories.

He continued, “Over the years, we’ve observed stable scanner prices, but we foresee a market disruption that could reshape the landscape of 3D scanning. Professional 3D scanners for industry uses may see price increases accompanied by significant technological leaps, while lower-cost options become more practical for more users as it gets better in achieving better scan quality. Ultimately, we believe the 3D scanning industry is poised for substantial growth across all user levels, from professionals to everyday enthusiasts. We have seen how the 3D scanning industry has evolved over the years and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Apple Vision Pro

The future is 3D. The GoMeasure3D team is always looking into how 3D scanning interplays with new technology. With the release of the new Apple Vision Pro, Paul wrote an article that takes a closer look at this new device and how 3D scanning can fuel the creation of 3D assets. Read the article →