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Tools of the Trade / Re: IM Programs in Rehearsal
« on: Aug 02, 2007, 12:02 am »
I have had a few occasions to use both texts and IMs in work.
IM:
I use it vary sparingly. But sometimes it is great to shoot an IM or text to the PM or whoever when a break is coming up and they can come in. Or let department heads know that a run-through is coming up.
With my current job, I chat (not during rehearsal) with my co-workers a lot. It is a good way to work in tandem on schedule/ ground plan/ whatever. If detailed discussion is necessary, I call. But if I just need something simple it is great. Google chat stores your conversations. You can copy and paste or print out information.
I have found that a number of directors love having instant access to information and have encouraged Internet research, emails, etc during rehearsal. (Business only)
TEXTS:
I also very much appreciate the text when running late. I do sometimes find it inadequate, but usually it is the perfect amount of info.
My current production is pretty complex and has aspects taking place in several cities/ areas at once with a good deal of travel. Texts are great for sending info like address/ directions to meet location, etc. I even store info in texts because my phone is always with me and easy access, whereas my email is not.
Another use that I have really come to find invaluable is with my boss (artistic director). English is not his native language, so phone and email conversation can sometimes get difficult. Texts are written but usually super simple. Cuts down on a lot of miscommunication. Plus he is more comfortable and more likely to respond quickly.
Having said all those things, I do think that sometimes electronic-ness can get in the way of face to face communication. I do make an effort to handle as much as possible in face to face or by phone. But sometimes simple and quick is actually exactly what you need.
My thoughts are use it as it suits you and your team. Make sure you check in by phone or in person as much as possible.
IM:
I use it vary sparingly. But sometimes it is great to shoot an IM or text to the PM or whoever when a break is coming up and they can come in. Or let department heads know that a run-through is coming up.
With my current job, I chat (not during rehearsal) with my co-workers a lot. It is a good way to work in tandem on schedule/ ground plan/ whatever. If detailed discussion is necessary, I call. But if I just need something simple it is great. Google chat stores your conversations. You can copy and paste or print out information.
I have found that a number of directors love having instant access to information and have encouraged Internet research, emails, etc during rehearsal. (Business only)
TEXTS:
I also very much appreciate the text when running late. I do sometimes find it inadequate, but usually it is the perfect amount of info.
My current production is pretty complex and has aspects taking place in several cities/ areas at once with a good deal of travel. Texts are great for sending info like address/ directions to meet location, etc. I even store info in texts because my phone is always with me and easy access, whereas my email is not.
Another use that I have really come to find invaluable is with my boss (artistic director). English is not his native language, so phone and email conversation can sometimes get difficult. Texts are written but usually super simple. Cuts down on a lot of miscommunication. Plus he is more comfortable and more likely to respond quickly.
Having said all those things, I do think that sometimes electronic-ness can get in the way of face to face communication. I do make an effort to handle as much as possible in face to face or by phone. But sometimes simple and quick is actually exactly what you need.
My thoughts are use it as it suits you and your team. Make sure you check in by phone or in person as much as possible.