HOW TO BUILD A STRIPBOARD IN FILMMAKING?
Filmmaking requires careful organization to ensure every part of production runs as planned. One of the most effective pre-production tools is the stripboard, a visual scheduling method crucial for mapping out when each scene will be shot. A well-designed stripboard provides clarity for everyone involved in your project, from directors and producers to the entire crew. It visually lays out scenes, locations, cast, and key details, making it easier for your team to follow the plan and communicate about daily objectives. By learning how to construct and use a stripboard, you can dramatically streamline your scheduling process and reduce production headaches.
This tool acts as a blueprint for your filming days, helping you anticipate needs and prevent conflicting arrangements. A stripboard separates scenes based on shooting order, not story sequence, ensuring film days are organized for maximum efficiency. Whether you are planning a small independent feature or a complex commercial shoot, a reliable stripboard forms the backbone of your scheduling strategy. The clearer your stripboard, the fewer surprises you encounter, saving both time and resources. Mastering this skill helps you keep the entire crew focused and working from the same page.
UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS OF A STRIPBOARD
A stripboard, sometimes called a production board, is used to display every scene and shot required for your film project. Each strip represents a scene from your script and usually contains information such as location, time of day, cast involved, and essential notes. Color-coding strips for different locations or types of scenes improves readability and allows you to quickly gauge the sequence’s complexity. Instead of following the film’s narrative order, you’ll arrange the strips based on the most practical and efficient shooting schedule. This method reduces unnecessary company moves, cuts back on overtime, and helps prevent missed shots or delays caused by scheduling conflicts.
You can use either a physical stripboard with paper strips or choose a digital solution for greater flexibility and collaboration. Digital stripboards are especially useful for sharing real-time updates with your crew and quickly adjusting to last-minute changes. Most productions start by carefully breaking down each script scene, marking details such as required props, takes, and any special effects. The stripboard’s visual nature makes it much easier for department heads to coordinate equipment needs and plan transitions. A strong understanding of this tool can transform how your team interacts during every step of pre-production.
KEY STEPS FOR CONSTRUCTING A STRIPBOARD
To make your own stripboard, start by performing a detailed script breakdown. Go scene by scene, recording information such as location, time of day, characters, props, wardrobe, and any special considerations. Once you’ve identified these details, represent each scene as a distinct strip with all relevant data visible at a glance. Think about using color labels to differentiate between night and day, interiors and exteriors, or by location, as this dramatically improves the board’s usability. The more clearly you can display information, the faster your crew will be able to respond to changes or schedule shifts.
Next, focus on arranging your strips in the optimal shooting order rather than the script order. This involves cross-referencing locations, actor availability, and production efficiency to minimize expensive set moves and downtime. If you use digital software, you’ll gain the advantage of drag-and-drop rescheduling and instant collaboration with team members. Be sure to update your board as changes occur, keeping everyone current with the latest timeline. Good communication, supported by an easy-to-read stripboard, leads to a smoother production experience for your whole crew.
TIPS FOR BETTER STRIPBOARD PLANNING
To enhance your stripboard, consider these helpful practices:
• Use clear, consistent color-coding to distinguish scenes by location, time, or set type.
• Attach key details to each strip, such as main actors, props required, or important production notes.
• Regularly involve your department heads, including the director and cinematographer, to verify that scheduling aligns with creative and technical needs.
• Consider adding small visual references, like thumbnails from the storyboard, to clarify complex shots to your crew.
• Keep your stripboard easily accessible, whether that’s physically on set or through collaborative digital software.
By following these practices, you ensure your stripboard becomes an active management tool rather than a static chart. Consistent updates and open discussion guarantee everyone on the team stays on the same page throughout the shoot.
ADVANCED TECHNIQUES FOR STRIPBOARD ORGANIZATION
For productions with intricate schedules or frequent changes, digital stripboard platforms offer great flexibility and efficiency. These tools allow for real-time updates, automatic rescheduling, and seamless sharing between department heads, ensuring everyone remains aligned. Integrate your stripboard with other production tools, such as storyboarding software or budgeting systems, to maintain a holistic overview of your workflow. Embedding small visual markers like scene sketches directly onto each strip can also help clarify the director’s intent during complex scenes. Inviting regular feedback from your crew about the stripboard’s clarity and effectiveness will help you refine your approach over time.
Advanced users might also establish backup plans for key scenes on the board, anticipating possible delays with weather or location access. If you can, develop a system for flagging at-risk scenes, so your assistant director or production manager can proactively respond. This kind of detail ensures minimal interruptions even when unexpected challenges arise. As your understanding of the stripboard grows, you’ll be able to spot inefficiencies earlier and optimize your entire shoot schedule. Ultimately, a well-maintained stripboard is a living document that adapts to your production’s evolving needs.
MASTER THE STRIPBOARD
Developing expertise with stripboards empowers you to handle complex productions with greater confidence and control. With careful organization, clear presentation, and ongoing communication, your stripboard can reduce costly mistakes and foster collaboration. Invest time into each breakdown, engage your team during planning, and always keep your board up to date. Choosing the right blend of digital tools and hands-on management will streamline your workflow and maximize shooting efficiency. When your stripboard is thoughtfully constructed, you’ll be ready to bring your creative vision to life on schedule and within budget.
