Script Review (Final Draft)

General Description

The Final Draft Script Review is the last stage of the scriptwriting process — and the final step before production begins. Typically, the content has been through at least two drafting and review cycles, and should be clean, coherent, and free of factual errors.

At this stage, edits are typically nonsubstantive, instead focusing on script polish and clarity.

What's the purpose of this review?

  • Ensure the script reads well. Provide emphasis, if needed.
  • Clarify the pronunciation of technical terms. (Update the Pronunciation Guide, if needed.)
  • Prepare for the Script Review Meeting.
  • Approve the course for production.  

Don't Worry (Yet) About...

  • As noted elsewhere, the scripts will be spoken aloud, not read. So, expect pause-for-breath commas, formatting to indicate emphasis, and similar.
  • Linked and referenced material doesn't need to be final, though we should be clear on the content and form. For example, if the script refers to an exercise in the workbook, the exact workbook text may be developed later — but we must be clear enough about the exercise to provide introductory voiceover text in the script.

Specific Responsibilities

If you're the Course Champion...

  • Ensure the script still looks on track to serve your ultimate purpose.
  • If we're at this stage, you have almost certainly had a few opportunities to redirect the course if it doesn't serve your needs. But, it's still not too late: suggest a pause & re-think if necessary. 

If you're the Content Lead...

  • Ensure the text is correct and consistent with your guidance.
  • Like the Course Champion, you have had several earlier opportunities to redirect the course if you believe it's missing the mark. But, it's still not too late: suggest a pause & re-think if necessary. 
  • As always, you can suggest a live meeting if useful. The Academy Coordinator (currently Ann Su) can coordinate schedules.

If you're on the Content Team...

  • Opine. Unless specifically requested otherwise, be as general or specific as you want.

If you're an SME, or a Reviewer...

  • You're not typically roped in at this point. If you are asked to participate in a Final Draft Review, check with the Content Lead or the Academy Team if you're not sure why you've been called to serve.
  • If you're an SME, you've likely been called in to spot factual errors. Focus on whatever details are present, and flag any incorrect or ambiguous statements about the product, technology, or concepts covered.

If you're a Senior Editor...

  • Lead any live review meetings. Facilitate the conversation about reviewers' feedback and support the content lead in rationalizing the input into specific direction about the changes that are needed.
  • If an external party is producing the course, revise the scripts to respond to reviewer feedback and provide verbatim script text.

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