Within the Screen Industries, informed decision-making involves reflecting and choosing the optimal path among many alternatives to meet specific creative and production objectives. In this dynamic field, where time and resources are critical, making pragmatic choices is often crucial for successful outcomes. The lack of skill in decision-making can lead to challenges such as budget overruns and scheduling delays, significantly impacting the quality and success of projects. Looking back at the scenarios that we have explored in the game, the following example showcases opportunities for effective informed decision-making.

In scenario Making Tea, Jo (Production Assistant), was asked to quickly get Evalyn a cup of tea with specific instructions related to the flavour strength and the amount of sugar, but they faced unexpected challenges once they got to the kitchen as the kettle was not working and there was no sugar left either. Naturally, it can be stressful when things don’t go according to plan, especially when there are high expectations. In the game, all the options presented to the player had a somewhat positive ending, showcasing Jo’s commitment to care for the talent (Evalyn) by looking for alternatives, even if tea was not an option. It is also important to acknowledge that your own decisions will not always meet other people’s expectations, and that’s okay too. You can’t please everyone all the time, but you can make informed-decisions whilst remaining confident that you did your best, despite the end result.

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LEARNING OUTCOMES

This module aims to achieve three primary learning outcomes for participants entering the Screen Industries. Firstly, it seeks to encourage a comprehensive understanding of the principles underpinning effective decision-making and assertiveness within the dynamic context of screen productions. Secondly, the module encourages cultivation of practical skills in participants, enabling them to navigate decision-making processes and communicate assertively in various professional scenarios. Finally participants will be encouraged to apply acquired knowledge and skills in authentic contexts, fostering the integration of decision-making strategies and assertive communication techniques into their professional practice within the Screen Industries.

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OUTLINE

Section 1: Strategies for effective informed decision-making

For emerging professionals entering the Screen Industries, mastering decision-making strategies is pivotal for navigating the challenges of their early careers. These strategies can be helpful for making informed decisions within the fast-paced environments of film and television production. There are diverse tools that you can employ to develop this skill, both individually and collaboratively. Here are some exercises based on the scenarios that we explored:

A SWOT analysis is a helpful exercise to understand the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that come with certain decisions.

 

STRENGTHS           _	WEAKNESSES           _
		OPPORTUNITIES           _	THREATS           _

 

Using creative visual aids, such as storyboards, can be particularly useful for visual learners and those who engage better with non-verbal communication. Naturally, these techniques are good to exercise your decision-making, but might not be suitable in a context with very limited time.

 

 

Decision trees are useful for comparing alternatives and assessing risks for effective and quick informed decision-making. In the game, Jo was instructed to go to the kitchen and make a strong cup of tea with three sugars for Evalyn. Here is an example of a tree decision diagram exercise for that scenario:

 

Activity: Based on the details provided below and using one of the strategies discussed before, reflect on, and decide how you would engage in this situation if you were a runner or production assistant.

 

The following case study provides a realistic and challenging context for professionals to exercise their decision-making strategies, emphasising the importance of immediate and effective emergency response while considering the broader implications for production schedules and the safety of the entire film set. In this case, collaborative decision-making is crucial, involving the on-set medical team, production cast and crew, and potentially external emergency services.

Case Study - A Medical Emergency on Set

While filming a high-energy stunt sequence for an action film, one of the stunt actors sustains an injury. While executing a complex manoeuvre, the actor falls and exhibits signs of distress. The on-set first aiders team are immediately required and determine that the performer needs urgent medical attention.

Considerations:

• The stunt performer appears to have sustained a leg injury, with potential fractures.

• The incident occurs on a specially constructed set for the action sequence, requiring careful consideration for the movement of medical personnel and equipment.

• The set is filled with other cast and crew members involved in the production.

• The film schedule is tight, and any delay may have financial implications. Decisions need to balance the urgent medical needs of the performer with the overall production timeline.

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CALL TO ACTION!

Watch and learn.

Choose an organisation that resonates with your interests within the Film and TV industry. Sign up to at least one networking event or panel discussion featuring industry experts. During the event, engage in conversations with professionals who have relevant experience in the area and reflect on these interactions to gain insights into effective decision-making strategies. Register your thoughts in a reflective journal or diary to keep track of the skills and knowledge that you’ve acquired.

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EXTERNAL RESOURCES

The Film Business Handbook developed by ScreenSkills offers a comprehensive step-by-step guide on decision-making strategies and reflections to integrate this skill in your practice.