Here's how to structure your video production approval process and use the right tools for smoother, faster video approvals. This guide shares key video review process tips and explores effective video collaboration tools.
Before implementing solutions, it helps to understand the common hurdles: imprecise feedback tied to vague time references ("around the middle part..."), difficulty consolidating notes from multiple reviewers, managing large file versions, and keeping track of who has approved what stage. These issues slow down production and lead to frustration.
A smooth process starts before the first review round.
Ensure everyone agrees on the video's objectives, target audience, key message, style, and duration before production begins.
Outline the stages of your video review and approval process. Who needs to review the rough cut, the fine cut, the final audio mix, and graphics? Who has final video production approval authority? Set realistic timelines for each stage.
Standard email and file-sharing weren't built for detailed video feedback. This is where specialized online proofing platforms shine.
Modern online proofing tools are designed specifically to handle the challenges of video review. They provide a centralized platform where reviewers can watch the video and leave feedback directly on the timeline.
Frame-Accurate Commenting: Reviewers can pause the video and drop a pin or comment precisely on a specific frame or timecode, eliminating ambiguity when you get feedback on video edits.
On-Screen Annotations: Many tools allow drawing directly on the video frame (circles, arrows, text overlays) to visually highlight areas needing attention.
Centralized Feedback: All comments from all reviewers are gathered in one place, linked to the specific timecode and version. No more hunting through emails!
Version Comparison: Easily compare different cuts side-by-side to see what's changed and ensure requested edits were made correctly.
Streamlined Communication: Facilitates threaded discussions around specific comments, keeping conversations focused.
Platforms offering GoProof video review capabilities, for example, provide these essential features, transforming the video production approval process from chaotic to controlled.
Beyond structure and tools, refine your process with these video review process tips.
Guide reviewers: Ask them to focus feedback on the right stage (e.g., narrative first, technical details later). Emphasize using timecodes and being specific and actionable rather than vague.
Brief Your Reviewers: Clearly explain the goals of the current review stage and demonstrate how to use the chosen video collaboration tools.
Consolidate Feedback: If multiple people review, have one person consolidate potentially conflicting points before sending notes to the editor.
Manage Rounds Clearly: Define how many revision rounds are included and manage expectations.
Confirm Edits: When sharing a new version, make it easy for reviewers to see if previous feedback was addressed (version comparison tools are great for this).
Once revisions are complete:
Achieving video production approval without the usual pain is possible. When you establish a clear video review and approval process, set expectations effectively, and utilize powerful video collaboration tools designed for video (like those offering GoProof capabilities), you streamline communication significantly. This approach allows you to gather precise feedback, manage revisions efficiently, and secure that final sign-off for faster video approvals, keeping projects on track and stakeholders satisfied.
Smart Proofing. Faster Approvals. GoProof.
