What are some common miscommunications between designers and technicians?

1 Language barriers

One of the most common sources of miscommunication is the use of different languages or jargons by different departments. For example, a lighting designer might use terms like gels, gobos, or cues, while a sound designer might use terms like levels, cues, or fades. These terms might have different meanings or implications for different technicians, or they might not be familiar with them at all. To avoid confusion, it is important to define and clarify any technical terms, acronyms, or abbreviations that are used in the design documents, meetings, or emails. It is also helpful to use visual aids, such as sketches, diagrams, or photos, to illustrate the design concepts or specifications.

2 Timing issues

Another common source of miscommunication is the mismatch of timing or deadlines between designers and technicians. For example, a costume designer might need to have the final fittings done by a certain date, while a prop master might need to have the final props delivered by a different date. These dates might not align with the schedule of the production manager, the director, or the actors. To avoid delays or conflicts, it is important to communicate and coordinate the timing and deadlines of each design element with the relevant technicians, and to update them on any changes or problems. It is also helpful to use a shared calendar, a spreadsheet, or a project management tool to keep track of the progress and status of each design element.

3 Scope changes

Another common source of miscommunication is the change of scope or direction of the design elements during the production process. For example, a scenic designer might decide to add or remove some set pieces, or a sound designer might decide to change or edit some sound effects. These changes might affect the budget, the space, the equipment, or the time of the technicians, or they might conflict with other design elements. To avoid frustration or waste, it is important to communicate and justify any changes or revisions of the design elements with the technicians, and to get their feedback and approval. It is also helpful to document and track any changes or revisions, and to inform the production manager and the director of any implications or consequences.

4 Feedback loops

Another common source of miscommunication is the lack of feedback or follow-up between designers and technicians. For example, a lighting designer might send a lighting plot to the electricians, but not receive any confirmation or questions from them. Or a sound designer might receive a sound cue sheet from the stage manager, but not check if it matches their sound design. These situations might lead to errors, misunderstandings, or missed opportunities. To avoid mistakes or gaps, it is important to provide and request feedback or follow-up from the technicians, and to acknowledge and respond to their feedback or follow-up. It is also helpful to have regular meetings, check-ins, or rehearsals to review and test the design elements and to address any issues or concerns.

5 Respect and trust

Another common source of miscommunication is the lack of respect or trust between designers and technicians. For example, a designer might disregard or dismiss the suggestions or opinions of a technician, or a technician might ignore or alter the instructions or specifications of a designer. These behaviors might create tension, resentment, or conflict between the parties, and might compromise the quality or integrity of the design elements. To avoid animosity or sabotage, it is important to respect and trust the expertise and experience of the technicians, and to appreciate and acknowledge their work and contribution. It is also helpful to establish and maintain a positive and professional relationship with the technicians, and to communicate and collaborate with them in a courteous and constructive manner.

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?