Circus Time Out Essay
Dry Erase Boards
Plinko!
Walk and Talk - Branding - June 2008
New Year’s Resolutions - January 2009
Soccer Ball USB Drive
Dry Erase Boards
Plinko!
Walk and Talk - Branding - June 2008
New Year’s Resolutions - January 2009
Soccer Ball USB Drive
Punch List
Attention to Detail
To be honest, I simply took a month off from writing. During that time, I was able to capitalize on Walk & Talk’s January content by fulfilling my office based New Year’s Resolutions. Add that to figuring out the beast they call taxes (which I will warn any new small business owners that it is quite the educational undertaking) and that’s where my month was spent. So Walk & Talk is back and this time around we’re going to focus on the details. Not necessarily the details themselves, but the attention that they deserve.
For the second year in a row, I had the opportunity to work with the NBA at All-Star Weekend. I served as the Game Director and script writer for the McDonald’s NBA Celebrity All-Star Game and NBA D-League All-Star Game, both of which are held at Jam Session in the 4,000 seat constructed arena referred to as “Center Court”.
Last year in New Orleans, the experience was a tad overwhelming at first, as it is amazing how many staff members and volunteers are involved in the production. This year in Phoenix, I was mentally prepared for what to expect and able to absorb things in a more objective view. Following my events on Friday and Saturday, I headed over to US Airways Center to take a look at the production of All-Star Saturday Night. One thing stood out across all aspects of the weekend…the attention to detail was visible in every aspect. The essential music had been scripted in advance…the signage at the hotels was consistent, whether it was the Hilton, Ramada or Holiday Inn…two-way radios were checked out via a barcode on your credential and you received a confirmation receipt upon return…the wardrobe department ensured that any last minute adjustments were handled by the time the jerseys hung in the locker room…and the rehearsal schedule ensured that all performers had ample time on the actual court they’d be dancing or dunking. And that’s just a few examples.
After working on the team side for many years, I understand that the volume of personnel is nowhere near the level of an event like NBA All-Star…however, by paying attention to the key details, the efficiency of a front office staff (no matter the size) can increase exponentially. Here are a few items to consider when planning your next game or event…
1. Rehearsals – Practice makes perfect, it’s an old adage and very applicable in our world. By rehearsing, you have an opportunity to work out the kinks, as well as modify your set-up for better timing and execution. Rehearsals also allow an opportunity for upper management or other departments to offer feedback prior to going live in front of the crowd. It’s also important to recognize when the rehearsal has accomplished its objective so the group is not running through repetitions just for the sake of it.
2. Create promotion diagrams – Having a diagram in hand for in-game promotions will come in very handy. It makes for an effective method of prepping contestants, who are likely performing the contest for the first time. Diagrams also allow for specific placement of props and signage…and can be provided to the sponsorship department to share in advance with their clients.
3. Syncing rundowns and scripts – Most teams simultaneously operate off a game rundown and script, with different positions utilizing each. Identify 1-2 people in your department (or organization) who have strong editing skills and ask them to look over the two in advance of each game. Ensuring the elements and directives are consistent with both will allow for a much smoother show.
4. Music choices – Ironically, this is an element that is often overlooked with many organizations. At times, this industry has a tendency to go with the nationwide favorites. Challenge your team, specifically your music operator(s), to create a library that fits your target demographic. While hip-hop is a great fit in Atlanta and Philadelphia…country music hits may be better used in Memphis or Austin. It’s up to each team to customize the audio experience that best fits their crowd. For more als see: Scott Beaty on In-Arena Music
5. Signage consistency – Aim for continuity in signage when running sponsor elements. While each venue will have varying levels of signage incorporation, do your best to sync the video board, ribbon boards, rotational signage and contest props. The more consistent the look, the more memorable the impression.
6. Communicate across departments – This should go without saying, but the attention to this area is often overlooked. Many departments will have input into game presentation elements (Sponsorship, Marketing, Ticket Sales, etc) and all have their own goals and agenda. Ensure all groups communicate updated expectations prior to games so everyone is on the same page. One of the most effective methods is to include a rep from all departments at script meetings, which likely take place days in advance of each game.
7. Knowledge of other departments – This is similar to the previous item of communication, but focused on the role each individual plays. By learning the job responsibilities of your co-workers, you’ll better understand their viewpoint when working out a solution. On the flip side, by teaching them the roles in game ops, they’ll recognize the best times to approach you for a discussion based on the timing in a game.
2. Create promotion diagrams – Having a diagram in hand for in-game promotions will come in very handy. It makes for an effective method of prepping contestants, who are likely performing the contest for the first time. Diagrams also allow for specific placement of props and signage…and can be provided to the sponsorship department to share in advance with their clients. 3. Syncing rundowns and scripts – Most teams simultaneously operate off a game rundown and script, with different positions utilizing each. Identify 1-2 people in your department (or organization) who have strong editing skills and ask them to look over the two in advance of each game. Ensuring the elements and directives are consistent with both will allow for a much smoother show.
4. Music choices – Ironically, this is an element that is often overlooked with many organizations. At times, this industry has a tendency to go with the nationwide favorites. Challenge your team, specifically your music operator(s), to create a library that fits your target demographic. While hip-hop is a great fit in Atlanta and Philadelphia…country music hits may be better used in Memphis or Austin. It’s up to each team to customize the audio experience that best fits their crowd. For more als see: Scott Beaty on In-Arena Music
5. Signage consistency – Aim for continuity in signage when running sponsor elements. While each venue will have varying levels of signage incorporation, do your best to sync the video board, ribbon boards, rotational signage and contest props. The more consistent the look, the more memorable the impression.
6. Communicate across departments – This should go without saying, but the attention to this area is often overlooked. Many departments will have input into game presentation elements (Sponsorship, Marketing, Ticket Sales, etc) and all have their own goals and agenda. Ensure all groups communicate updated expectations prior to games so everyone is on the same page. One of the most effective methods is to include a rep from all departments at script meetings, which likely take place days in advance of each game.
7. Knowledge of other departments – This is similar to the previous item of communication, but focused on the role each individual plays. By learning the job responsibilities of your co-workers, you’ll better understand their viewpoint when working out a solution. On the flip side, by teaching them the roles in game ops, they’ll recognize the best times to approach you for a discussion based on the timing in a game.
While all teams have a different structure based on the sport they play and the size of their organization, focusing on the attention to detail will help everyone across the board. We all aim to create and execute at a high degree of success and this is one important step along the way that can help you reach that goal. Plinko!
Circus Time Out Essay
Dry Erase Boards
National Anthem
Matchbox Cars
Replica Hoods
