How to track your pre-production progress with software

1 What is pre-production software?

Pre-production software helps you perform and coordinate various pre-production tasks using digital tools and features. Some examples of pre-production software are Celtx, StudioBinder, FrameForge, and Shot Designer. With these software programs allow you to create and edit scripts, storyboards, shot lists, breakdowns, call sheets, and more. Pre-production software also lets you share your files and feedback with your team members, clients, and stakeholders. By streamlining your pre-production process and avoiding errors, time money and hassle can be saved.

2 How to choose the right software

When selecting pre-production software for a project, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Factors to consider include the project's scope and genre, team size and roles, budget and resources, and more. The right software should be suitable for the type of project you have, offer collaborative capabilities, and be affordable and user-friendly with customizable templates. Additionally, it should offer cross-platform compatibility and visual aids.

3 How to set it up

Once you have chosen your pre-production software, you need to set it up properly to optimize workflow and productivity. To do this, start by creating a new project with a title that reflects the genre and format of your project. Then, use the script editor or formatting tool to import or write your script. From here, break down the script into scenes, shots, and elements with the breakdown tool categorizing all the features like characters, props, locations, costumes, and so on. Generate storyboards, shot lists, and floor plans to visualize camera angles and movements. Schedule shoot dates and locations using the scheduling tool or feature while allocating resources according to availability and priority. Finally, communicate shoot details effectively by creating a call sheet and distributing it to your team with the call sheet tool.

4 How to track your progress and milestones

Tracking your pre-production progress and milestones is essential for staying on schedule, budget, and creative vision. Software offers tracking features to monitor performance, output, and feedback. It's helpful to set realistic and specific goals for each pre-production task and visualize them using the software's calendar. Software lets you regularly update and review files, collaborate with your team, provide constructive feedback using set features, and report your results. If any issues arise during this process, use the software typically have a troubleshooting or contingency plan to address them.

5 How to improve your pre-production skills

Utilizing pre-production software can aid in developing your pre-production abilities and understanding. Pre-production software offers tutorials, templates, community platforms, among other learning resources. These can be found online or in-app, as well as on external sources such as blogs, podcasts, YouTube channels, and websites.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?