And it’s not just being cheap and agile...
⚡ 1. Clearly Defined Remit
Commit to the types of work and budget ranges you want to produce In-House.
These can flex overtime but you need clear instructions on when to stay at home and when to go out.
Remember, you shouldn’t do everything In-House, but you should know what you’ll always do In-House.
⚡ 2. Creative Partnership
It’s important for creative leadership to be on board and involved early in setting up the In-House.
How? Naming, branding, hiring, defining remit, positioning, nurturing talent, and of course… the craft.
Make it's success their success.
⚡ 3. Hire Producers
A Producer should be running the In-House Production department.
Not a project manager, not a business director… a Producer.
Ensure they are always involved in all upstream activities. Production Strategy provides immense value.
(Oh and it should go without saying but… the production leadership shouldn't produce too many jobs themselves. Their focus should be on running and growing the In-House.)
⚡ 4. Internal PR
Educate the rest of the company on exactly what the In-House Production can do for them.
People need to know why, how and when to engage the In-House.
You’ll probably spend quite a bit of time reminding them the In-House exists - just keep at it.
⚡ 5. Payment Agility
Production requires a more agile payment model than you may be used to.
Access to funds and quick payments are instrumental to production; crew, kit, locations, and a steady stream of flat whites.
If this can’t easily be done internally, you may need to find "inventive" workarounds.
⚡ 6. Process & Tools
Production, brand, and agency processes all have their quirks which are different across the board.
Assess what you need, create something that works in concert with everyone, and stick to it.
Use the right tools, whether artificially intelligent or just, you know… intelligent. They will make your life better.
What other things do you think are important for successful In-House Production?