September 16, 2026
If an employer asked me why we need a script or storyboard before making a short video, I would probably start with something simple: it saves us from making too many decisions while the camera is already running.
I felt that during my COMM 310 video project.
Before recording, I already knew that one section would show me speaking directly to the camera. Another would use footage from training sessions. Other parts needed Excel, design work and screen recordings. I did not have to stand in front of the camera and suddenly ask myself, “What comes next?”
A script is more than dialogue
The script tells me what needs to be said. The storyboard or visual plan tells me what the audience should be seeing while those words are being heard.
Those two things also help expose problems early.
For example, a sentence might be good on paper but require footage that I do not have. Or I may discover that three consecutive scenes look almost identical. It is much easier to notice that before spending time recording and editing everything.
It also keeps the message from wandering
This matters even more when several people are involved. A client may have one idea of the video, the person filming may have another, and the editor may imagine something completely different.
A script and storyboard give everyone something concrete to discuss.
I used to think of a script mostly as the words someone says. After working through this project, I see it more as a production map. It does not remove every surprise. I still changed small things while working. But at least I knew where I was trying to go.
