What a Client Needs to Know About an Animation Production Schedule: Postpones

“Postponing is not an option!”, as Ross Geller once said in one of the classic episodes of Friends. While we definitely are on the same page with Ross, the process of creating an animated video is… not.

There are actually many of things that could slow down the schedule, even if it was planned by such a crazy planner like Sheldon Cooper. When it comes to animation production, delays can sometimes be as inevitable as a catchy jingle getting stuck in your head. As much as we’d love to make magic happen overnight, there are a few things clients should know about the ups and downs of an animation production schedule, particularly when it comes to those pesky postponements. Let’s dive into it!

Animation is an art form, not a microwave dinner.

If there’s one thing animation teaches us, it’s patience. Each frame is meticulously crafted, even with the help of AI – which is actually helpful in the preparation process, but can’t foresee all the circumstances. Bear in mind that producing an animated masterpiece can’t be rushed.

Remember, good things come to those who wait (and fund the project). But it can be postponed (you know it already). What can affect it: Script word count  The changes in animation style or its details  Your budget  The size of a team required to complete the work  

Expect the unexpected.

Animation production is a bit like herding cats. No matter how meticulously you plan, there will always be unforeseen challenges and obstacles along the way. From sudden software glitches to alien invasions (well, maybe not that extreme), the universe has a way of keeping us on our toes.

So, buckle up, because the road to animation glory is bound to have a few detours. For example: Client’s review for each project phase   Client’s availability for revision

The magic of collaboration.

Animation is a team sport, and like any team, it relies on coordination and synchronization. The collaborative nature of the process means that even the smallest hiccup can send ripples through the production timeline.

Whether it’s waiting for feedback, resolving creative differences, or the occasional clash of egos, it’s important to remember that the animation gods work in mysterious ways. And sometimes, their mischief results in delays. The transition between stages 

Not obvious reasons for postpones

Iterative Refinement — as the team progresses through different stages, such as storyboarding, character design, and animation itself, it is not uncommon to discover the need for adjustments or even significant changes.

These refinements can arise from creative brainstorming sessions, client feedback, or technical limitations. While necessary for enhancing the quality of the final product, these iterations can extend the timeline and require additional time for implementation, thus resulting in a postponement.

Technological Challenges

Adopting a new animation software might involve training the team, integrating it into the existing pipeline, and troubleshooting any technical issues that arise during the transition.

Similarly, working with cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality or augmented reality may require additional research and experimentation. Such technological hurdles can introduce unforeseen delays in the animation process.

External Dependencies

Collaborating with external studios or contractors for specialized tasks, such as visual effects or sound design. Coordinating with these external entities introduces an element of uncertainty, as their availability, workload, or unforeseen circumstances may impact the project timeline.

Delays in receiving deliverables or changes in schedules from these external sources can, unfortunately, cause postponements in the overall animation process.

Unexpected Complications

Despite meticulous planning, unexpected complications can arise during the animation process. These could be anything from unforeseen technical issues that disrupt the workflow to personal circumstances affecting team members.

For example, a team member falling ill, equipment failure, or natural disasters disrupting the production environment. These unpredictable events can disrupt the animation pipeline, necessitating adjustments, and potentially leading to a postponement of the process until the situation is resolved or alternatives are found.

Last but not least. Creative Blocks. Animation is an art form, and like any creative endeavor, it is susceptible to creative blocks. There may be instances when the animation team encounters difficulties in finding the right artistic direction, struggling with a specific scene, or grappling with a lack of inspiration.

These creative challenges can temporarily halt progress and require time for the team to regroup, experiment, and find innovative solutions. While such delays can be frustrating, they are an inherent part of the creative process and contribute to the eventual success of the animation.

Conclusion

A year ago, there would be the same amount of postponing reasons. Even Ross Geller would say the same. However, it is worth mentioning that AI makes the whole process a bit shorter. At least its preparation part. Exactly like Sheldon Cooper would have done it.

Remember that in animation production, open and transparent communication is crucial. Clients and production teams need to be in sync like a choreographed dance routine. If there’s a bump in the road or a change of plans, we’ll do our best to keep you in the loop.

Likewise, we appreciate your input and timely feedback to ensure we’re on the same wavelength. It’s a partnership, after all, and together we can conquer any delay that comes our way.