ESSENTIAL QUESTION 

How does a large team work together to complete a complex project?

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OVERVIEW 

It’s no secret large entertainment broadcast productions, such as ESPN’s College Gameday or The Ellen Show, do not just fall into place without the assistance of a large number of staff and crew members. However, the same can be said true for smaller entertainment broadcast, such as YouTube or Netflix Series. A great deal of thought, effort and time are spent planning, promoting and producing any size broadcast. When viewing a broadcast, it is easy to miss the behind the scenes work that took place to make it a success. Let’s stop and think. To prepare for a broadcast, set up includes studio set, lighting, sound, and camera equipment. Those are four important and necessary elements, but have you ever thought about the staff and support needed for security, electrical, transportation, lodging, hospitality, cast management and clean up. It’s unrealistic to think those roles will take care of themselves. This is where the concept of logistics management comes into play. Logistics can be described as coordinating an operation that involves a large group of people, various locations and numerous supplies and equipment. This level of coordination requires attention to detail and impeccable organization skills.

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Each and every broadcast, whether it’s meant for entertainment or information distribution, requires some level of logistics management. Careers in logistics management are not only available in the field of entertainment management, but also in businesses, big or small, global wide. When you take a family vacation, how many delivery trucks and 18-wheelers do you see traveling the interstate day after day? Every business represented by each of those trucks has a logistic management department that schedules transportation from point A to point B. It’s safe to say, careers in logistics management are abundant and readily available.

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A large portion of logistics management revolves around a production schedule. A production schedule simply organizes who, what, when and where. Creating a production schedule for an entertainment broadcast is key to ensuring a smooth process and broadcast execution. Inevitably, unexpected changes will occur. However, a good logistics management team can adjust accordingly. Creating a broadcast production schedule is only a portion of the logistics process. Appointing, managing and assisting staff and support are also integral parts of logistics management. This portion of the job requires interpersonal communication skills. Life Application: Being able to communicate effectively with others is key to succeeding in every aspect of your life.

 

OBJECTIVES 

Upon completion of this lesson, students will develop the skills through which they may:  ​​

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• Understand the importance of logistics management. 

• Develop, create and explain a production schedule. 

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Click HERE to see full lesson plan with activities.