Conclusions
3D scanning is complicated. The reasons for malfunction are not always apparent. In future scans, manual registration techniques might be less problematic.
Learning 3D Studio Max required more patience than is needed for most programs. The typical approach of "let's see what this does" was thwarted by the vast size of the software and the complexity of its operations. Consequently, having a book that presented 3D Studio Max coherently was very useful.
Once a basic knowledge was attained, the "recipes" on the Web became useful. Specific instructions are necessary for the beginner due to 3D Studio Max's complexity.