What Makes a Good Model

One of the most important aspect's to a good computer model is good topology if the topology of the model isn't taken into account then it will become allot more difficult to rig skin and animate. Good topology also makes it easier to change later. The key to this is to start with a low amount of polygons until you have the right shape you're looking for then you can just add on edge loops and extrusions to add more detail and smoothness. A good amount of polygons allows smoother skinning and animation. Working from reference allows more accurate results in the form of the shape of the character, which is why using a drawn character concept of the front and side allows the modeller to create the character accurately in 3D.

There are 2 types of polygon for modelling, squares which are best for creating smoother deformations and shading. This type is best for animating complex characters. While triangles are better for video game characters since they take up less rendering time.
Triangles should be avoided for animation, they lead to tears rips and rough deformations.
The modeling can make and break your animation and should be taken into consideration from straight at the beginning

UV mapping also makes a good model because the better a character has been mapped out for texturing the more detailed and accurate the textures will look when applied to the final model.  

Lastly a model should always be made in a T pose if not rigging and skinning becomes very difficult.

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https://uk.pinterest.com/betopra/character-topology/