Theater Set Production Designer Onboarding Checklist

Theater Set Production Designer Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Theater Set Production Designer starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Design onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Theater Set Production Designer, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Theater Set Production Designer onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Theater Set Production Designer Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the company: The new theater set production designer should be given a comprehensive introduction to the company, including its history, mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated company representative.

2. Familiarization with the design team: The new production designer should be introduced to the design team members, including other designers, technicians, and artists. This allows them to establish relationships, understand team dynamics, and collaborate effectively. The task of introducing the new designer to the team is usually performed by the design team lead or supervisor.

3. Review of previous productions: It is crucial for the new production designer to review previous theater productions to gain an understanding of the company’s style, aesthetic preferences, and design standards. This task can be performed by the design team lead or a designated team member who can provide access to past production materials.

4. Understanding the production process: The new designer should be provided with a detailed overview of the theater production process, from concept development to final execution. This includes understanding the roles and responsibilities of different team members, timelines, and milestones. The design team lead or production manager typically performs this task.

5. Familiarization with design software and tools: Depending on the company’s preferred design software and tools, the new production designer should receive training and guidance on how to effectively use them. This task can be performed by a designated team member or an external trainer.

6. Review of safety protocols: Safety is paramount in theater production, and the new designer should be familiarized with the company’s safety protocols, including emergency procedures, equipment handling, and hazardous material guidelines. This task is typically performed by the production manager or a designated safety officer.

7. Budgeting and cost management: The new production designer should receive training on budgeting and cost management, including understanding the company’s financial processes, expense tracking, and resource allocation. This task can be performed by the finance department or a designated team member responsible for budgeting.

8. Collaboration with other departments: The production designer should be introduced to key personnel from other departments, such as lighting, sound, and costume design, to foster collaboration and ensure seamless integration of all production elements. This task is typically performed by the design team lead or production manager.

9. Site visits and familiarization with theater spaces: The new designer should visit the theater spaces where productions take place to gain a better understanding of the available resources, limitations, and technical requirements. This task can be performed by the production manager or a designated team member responsible for site visits.

10. Review of contracts and legal obligations: The new production designer should be provided with an overview of any contracts, agreements, or legal obligations related to their role, such as intellectual property rights, confidentiality agreements, or union regulations. This task is typically performed by the legal department or a designated team member responsible for contract management.

11. Introduction to production schedules and deadlines: The new designer should be given access to production schedules and deadlines, allowing them to plan their work effectively and meet project milestones. This task is typically performed by the production manager or a designated team member responsible for scheduling.

12. Mentoring and guidance: The new production designer should be assigned a mentor or experienced team member who can provide guidance, answer questions, and support their professional development. This task is typically performed by the design team lead or a designated mentorship coordinator.

13. Review of company policies and procedures: The new designer should be provided with an overview of company policies and procedures, including those related to attendance, leave, communication, and professional conduct. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated team member responsible for policy communication.

14. Introduction to production resources and suppliers: The new production designer should be introduced to the company’s preferred suppliers, vendors, and resources for materials, props, and equipment. This allows them to understand the available options and make informed decisions. This task can be performed by the production manager or a designated team member responsible for procurement.

15. Ongoing training and professional development: The new designer should be informed about the company’s commitment to ongoing training and professional development opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, or industry events. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated team member responsible for training coordination.

By completing these onboarding tasks, the new theater set production designer will be equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources to start their journey with the new company successfully

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Theater Set Production Designer checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Theater Set Production Designer up to speed and working well in your Design team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.