Wait! This isn't "Gone With the Wind." It's an 8-minute video, suitable for conversion to an interactive CD-ROM, and adaptable to targeted endings. So, how do you meet production length requirements, while doing justice to your subject? Easily, if you remember the rule of three. Summarize, Simplify, and Synthesize.
Your notes should tell you what is truly important. For myself, I must have an outline or format (at least in my head) of what must be said. By developing your script on the level of "telling a story," it's possible to create a summary. This allows the writer to pull individual facts and figures from previously noted material to provide secondary support for the central idea.
Every production has a beginning, a middle, and an end. Writing for the new media is no different from compiling a report, or penning a novel. However, your method will more closely duplicate speechwriting, than the luxury of printed prose.
A theme is critical. The client may have provided one; in this case you're set. Otherwise, it's worth some careful thought. Most likely, this will become your title for the piece/s, thus preparing your audience for the information to come. Do consider their reaction. "Cute" may be appropriate for a family reunion, but definitely will fall on irritated ears in the board room.
Once you have your "slant" — you have the basis for your beginning. It's well to keep this general, relying on verbal and visual images, while emphasizing your main point. For outline purposes, a sentence is fine.
The middle answers the viewers' questions concerning the "what, whys, and hows." It is here that you'll be delving into those boxes looking for historical material, practical information, human interest stories, and the like.
For those writing for non-profits, you may want to re-visit Justin Locke's article on fundraising presentations for further tips. Others may want to read David Sharpe's Video Script Guidelines. The 10 Point Scripting Process is also a valuable resource.
After you've summarized your beginning and middle, go back again and simplify. Pretend you're a busy city editor (or your producer), be ruthless! Remember that the visuals will be adding to your information. Make sure your outline lends itself to short narrative or screenworthy sentences.
Go To Page: 1 2
