Three-dimensional laser scanners are able to generate highly accurate and powerful digital reconstructions that, in turn, are able to support significant levels of magnification. Digital models can, in some cases, replace the physical specimen depending on the level of detail sought by the researcher. Scanning at 100 µm resolution is suitable for most vertebrate paleontological research if the research involves analysis of structures larger than 100 µm. If the structures of interest are smaller than 100 µm, a 50 µm scanning resolution must be used. Although making models easier to manipulate, polygon compression reduces the level of detail present in the model and should not be used for detailed paleontological study. Development of digital models will make it easier for collaboration over the World Wide Web, making it easier to protect valuable specimens. Other uses could include the modeling of internal structures. This technique would also allow for high-precision realignment of serial sections and the development of a digital model library for comparison of similar specimens. With the development of more powerful desktop computers in the next few years, it will be possible for the development of virtual reconstructions of important systems or complete skeletons that are easily manipulated. As the technology continues to mature, the potential exists for specimens to be archived digitally as three-dimensional models that could then be stored in a database for rapid retrieval and referencing.