"The days when you needed amazing Silicon Graphics machines to run animation software are gone now"

The quote by Dave Rowntree highlights a significant improvement in the animation industry, especially worrying the technological developments and accessibility of tools required to develop animated content. The recommendation to "remarkable Silicon Graphics devices" points to a bygone period when high-powered, customized hardware was essential for running animation software application. Silicon Graphics, Inc. (SGI) was renowned in the late 20th century for its sophisticated workstations and servers, which were critical in computer system graphics, visualization, and animation. These devices were integral throughout a time when developing sophisticated graphical material required immense computational power, which just high-end, costly equipment might use.

Rowntree's statement recommends a democratization of technology in the animation industry. The "days" he describes are defined by the exclusivity and high expense related to accessing top-tier animation tools, which limited animation production to big studios and professionals with considerable budgets. Nevertheless, those days are "gone now", indicating a shift to more accessible and affordable technology. This transformation is mainly driven by the quick development of consumer-grade hardware, such as powerful desktop computers and laptops, that can now efficiently run intricate animation software application. Furthermore, the introduction of open-source software and easy to use applications has made animation more accessible to a more comprehensive audience, including independent artists, little studios, and hobbyists.

Additionally, cloud computing, software-as-a-service (SaaS) designs, and real-time making innovations have further facilitated this shift, enabling creators to circumvent the requirement for expensive hardware investments. Rowntree's observation highlights a more comprehensive trend within digital content development-- the empowerment of individuals and little teams to produce high-quality work without the prohibitive costs that as soon as acted as a barrier. This democratization has caused increased innovation, imagination, and variety within the animation landscape, fostering an environment where practically anybody with a computer system and the right software can bring their animated visions to life.