DYNAMICS OF MY WORLD
As a result of being in project management positions for the last 20 years, I'm well versed in digital pipelines and understand what it takes to successfully bid, produce, communicate, and deliver high quality projects on time and within budget.
Crafting extensive proposals for each unique creative project is one of the most important parts of my job. Proposals are typically filled with technical assumptions and costs based on the project's unique needs. Proposals often include ideas on shooting methodologies to assist in getting the best visuals through the post production pipeline. This is where the exciting, problem-solving venture begins. I often have rounds of discussions with our facility VFX Supervisors and the production's Director, Producers and other key creatives until the pre-production proposal/estimate is presented. The project needs drastically change from the time the script is broken down into visual effects shots to the time the Director's vision for each shot is discussed after the project has been filmed. Once the final scope of work has been decided for each VFX shot in the edit I then put together a formal fixed bid cost proposal based on the needs of each unique asset build and shot.
I help build client respect and trust through ongoing communication, relationships and reliable deliveries. I have that same respect and devotion to my team of skilled digital artists and administrators. As the facility producer it is my job to help outline resource needs and build the right dynamic team for each project. As the key liaison between clients and my creative team, I rely on fluid communication systems and a dedicated PMIS to ensure milestones and quality metrics are met. Because I have the opportunity to work with skilled professionals (visual effects supervisors, leads, digital artists, and administrators), I'm continually kept abreast on new software techniques, creative methodologies and industry innovations. I love learning!
While working within rigid financial boundaries, it is imperative that I continually keep on top of our crew data analysis. Understanding how long it takes the average artist to accomplish certain tasks is imperative to future project (and facility) success. I track and analyze bid days vs. actual artist days, along with revised scopes of work. Assigning perceived financial value to digital creative elements and visual effects shots is an art in itself. Understanding the complexities of the various digital artists roles within our pipeline helps me to project costs, timelines and staffing needs.
The one constant is change and it is my job to stay informed, innovative and competitive in this ever-changing digital marketplace.
