The No Surprises Editing Review Process

 

You’re in the know every step of the way.

Seed Media’s editing process flows through four phases or iterations.

1. Rough Assembly (RA)
2. Rough Cut (RC)
3. Preview Reel (PR)
4. Final Cut (FC)

Not every project requires every phase, smaller projects might only require the rough cut and the final cut, while larger projects usually require the full process.

 

 

Step 1: Rough Assembly Reel Review

The first step in the review process is the Rough Assembly Reel (RA) review. During this stage, a raw assembly of the shots that have been slated for the edit will be prepared and presented to the client for review. This is the client’s opportunity to offer feedback regarding the shots and make requests based on the selection.

It’s All About The Storyline! Speed Is Key!

The rough assembly is used to flesh out the main storyline, focusing on getting the content out quickly rather than making it perfect–the rough assembly edit is unfinished! The goal is to make sure the direction is correct. Depending on the material being edited, this process might be reviewed by the client or, in most cases, it will be reviewed internally.

Percentage of Total Edit

Upon completion of the RA, 20%-30% of the edit should be complete.

Who Reviews This Process/edit and What Client Edit Changes Can Be Requested?

Always an internal review(s) is done before the client sees it. If it’s a large project that requires client feedback, one person or a small group from the client reviews for accuracy. Sometimes, to not distract from the story, we will send only audio for review. At this point, the client will focus on the audio giving feedback on the story. Additionally, a rough assembly or clips can be sent for review where shots can be requested to be removed or moved around.

 

 

Step 2: Rough Cut Review

The second step in the review process is the Rough Cut (RC) review. During this stage, a rough cut of the full video will be edited and presented to the client for review. The client will have the opportunity to offer feedback and make requests based on the edit and direction of the video.

Tighten Up the Belt!

During this editing phase, the story will be tightened up, most of the b-roll (supporting shots) will be picked, music and sound effects will be added, and most of the titles will be finalized. The rhythm of the edit will be tightened up as well.

Percentage of Total Edit

Upon completion of the RC, 30%-95% of the edit should be complete, and it should be close to being final with only minor additional edits if any.

Who Reviews This Process/edit and What Client Edit Changes Can Be Requested?

An internal review is always done before the client sees the RC. A small group from the client will usually review it for accuracy. At this point, the client can change some audio around, move titles, and make a few shot changes.

 

 

Step 3: Preview Reel Review

The third step in our editing process is the Preview Reel (PR) Review. During this stage, the finished video will be prepared with the edit and direction set. At this point, the client will have the opportunity to make minor suggestions, if any.

The Finishing Touches!

This stage focuses on dialing everything in with the final touches, including color correction, minor adjustments, audio levels, and final client edits if any.

Percentage of Total Edit

Upon completion of the PR, the project should be 95%-100% complete. From this phase, the project should be able to move directly to the final cut with no changes.

Who Reviews This Process/edit and What Client Edit Changes Can Be Requested?

An internal review(s) will always be done before presenting to the client, and possibly reviewed by external eyes for any mistakes. This stage is where the client may show the finished product to a large group within their company or a focus group, with only potential for micro changes.

 

 

Step 4: Final Cut Review, Sign-Off, and Delivery

This final step in our process is the final cut review, sign-off, and delivery. Any further changes beyond the four review phases will be considered a scope change and additional fees may be incurred.

Percentage of Total Edit

The project should be 100% complete at this stage.

Who Reviews This Process/edit and What Client Edit Changes Can Be Requested?

An internal review will always be done before exporting/sharing the final cut, with no client changes allowed at this stage unless there is a scope change to the project.

Our Promise – No Surprises

The No Surprises Editing Review Process ensures that the client is always in the know and involved in every stage of the editing process. This four-step process guarantees that the final product meets the client’s expectations and eliminates any surprises.