When I first downloaded the free copy of Google SketchUp 6, I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical. SketchUp 6 come in two flavors, Free and Pro. I took the free version for a quick spin, and I must say that I was pleasantly surprised.

The install was painless and quick. At just under 33 Mb’s, it’s amazing how much Google has put into such a small package. Unlike many of the competitor 3D programs out there, the layout is simplicity itself. You have a basic blank screen with the X,Y,Z axis being displayed and a small cartoonish drawing to give you orientation (nice touch!)

Most 3D software is complex and confusing for newbies, but immediately after loading the free Google SketchUp, I swiftly mastered the basics by finishing its three short tutorials. There's not a drop of difficult CAD terminology.

Sketchup have a very fast 3d modeling technology, by using it's push/pull technology, I could a rig complex model really fast. I mean REALLY FAST !!!.

Now don’t get me wrong here, this is not Maya. You are not going to be making a motion picture with the free version, but for what it does, it does it with elegant simplicity.

I see google sketchup hold a great promise. I am sure Sketchup will add more feature in future version.