Scriptwriting and Storyboard
Script Treatment
Once the concept is established and the research is complete, it is time to write the script. First write an outline and then a script treatment, which is a condensed version of the script that describes what will be seen and heard. The script treatment gives a chronological rundown of the prospective script, detailing information on the setting, plot, characters, and dialogue. Have the treatment approved before moving on to the final script.
Example of treatment
Outline
An elderly woman is getting her home weatherized. This video will highlight one measure of the weatherization process. A group of technicians are working on sealing ducts. The procedure will be outlined from pre-weatherization to the end results.
Treatment
It is early morning. Mrs. Jones is standing in her door waiting in excitement as the weatherization technicians pull into her driveway. They greet her and then they start work on her house.
MRS. JONES: My energy bill has been so high for a while now, and a friend of mine told me about the weatherization program. I called them and they came right out to evaluate my home.
TECHINICIAN: We are sealing the ducts and then we will use the blower door to find any areas where air may be leaking.
The next scene shows the technicians insulating the attic.
Format
Write the final script and storyboard.
- The script should address audio and video elements. There will be two columns. The left side is for video and the right side is for audio. On the audio side, write what will be said. On the video side describe the visuals.
Straight selling rarely works in corporate videos. Here are several ways to make the video more entertaining.
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In the right way-wrong way demonstration a character uses a machine incorrectly and then does it again the right way.
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For a training script, a step-by-step demonstration can be effective. This can be reinforced by using slow-motion, close-ups, and scripted questions from characters playing learning-employee roles.
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Note: In an actual demonstration, the entire procedure can be rather lengthy. To keep the audience's interest, do the beginning of the procedure and then use a montage or b-roll, go to the final step. Another alternative is to show "before" and "after" shots, and then explain what procedure was used.
Script Approval
Some production companies have writers that will develop the script, but the best tactic may be to write the script yourself since you are most familiar with the subject area. Then, review the script with the production company. This way, both parties know what is expected of them. Obtain any necessary approvals on the script before proceeding to production.
Example of a video production script:
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VIDEO |
AUDIO |
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FADE UP: DOE LOGO |
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Weatherization Works Logo |
V/O: Our mission is to reduce heating and cooling costs for low-income families, particularly for the elderly, people with disabilities, and children by improving the energy efficiency of their homes and ensuring their health and safety. |
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Montage of field, homes |
V/O: Our goal is to make the people that we come in contact with in the Weatherization Program… to make their homes more energy efficient and comfortable. |
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BUST |
V/O: Our objective is to save them on heating costs to identify some health and safety problems they may be having. |
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FULL SCREEN:
CLIMATE: Cold Weather
HOUSING: Single Family
CLIENT: Elzabeth Gaska
ESTIMATED ENERGY SAVINGS: 500 Gallons of oil/winter |
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Click to learn how to find a production company.