These models must always be used with a degree of caution and updated with new information from all sources such as pile excavation records, new drilling, earthworks changes mapping of faces in tunnels and excavations. The modelling process introduces the engineering aspects once the geology is well understood. Models described herein are geological models first and foremost with an emphasis on being geologically and geomorphologically accurate. The geologist does not necessarily have to be a specialist engineering geologist, they could be a pure geologist but one who can thoroughly and clearly explain all issues and features to the engineering team. Models must always make sense geologically and geomorphologically and preferably be reviewed by a geologist/engineer team. There are many advantages to thinking and working in 3D as well as some serious pitfalls when using such models. As we shift away from a 2D (long sections, cross sections and design software programs) way of working to a fully 3D system of design it is important to follow suit with site characterisation tools. This is especially true for large, complex or unsafe sites or for forensic investigations in both terrestrial and offshore settings. In addition, geomorphology of materials above, below or surrounding project sites must be well understood by design and construction teams to optimise both safety and costs. Soil, rock, geological structures such as faults, rock fall zones and slips are often best examined in 3D. Three dimensional geological models are increasingly being used to characterise the world of ground engineering. This paper was originally published in Australian Geomechanics in September 2018 and is reproduced by permission of AGS ABSTRACT Three dimensional geological models in ground engineering: when to use, how to build and review, benefits and potential pitfalls

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