set-builder/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — set builder

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 27-1027.00 (Set and Exhibit Designers).

Task statements

• [Core] Examine objects to be included in exhibits to plan where and how to display them.
• [Core] Acquire, or arrange for acquisition of, specimens or graphics required to complete exhibits.
• [Core] Prepare rough drafts and scale working drawings of sets, including floor plans, scenery, and properties to be constructed.
• [Core] Confer with clients and staff to gather information about exhibit space, proposed themes and content, timelines, budgets, materials, or promotion requirements.
• [Core] Estimate set- or exhibit-related costs, including materials, construction, and rental of props or locations.
• [Core] Develop set designs, based on evaluation of scripts, budgets, research information, and available locations.
• [Core] Inspect installed exhibits for conformance to specifications and satisfactory operation of special-effects components.
• [Core] Plan for location-specific issues, such as space limitations, traffic flow patterns, and safety concerns.
• [Core] Submit plans for approval, and adapt plans to serve intended purposes, or to conform to budget or fabrication restrictions.
• [Core] Prepare preliminary renderings of proposed exhibits, including detailed construction, layout, and material specifications, and diagrams relating to aspects such as special effects or lighting.
• [Core] Collaborate with those in charge of lighting and sound so that those production aspects can be coordinated with set designs or exhibit layouts.
• [Core] Research architectural and stylistic elements appropriate to the time period to be depicted, consulting experts for information, as necessary.
• [Core] Design and produce displays and materials that can be used to decorate windows, interior displays, or event locations, such as streets and fairgrounds.
• [Core] Select set props, such as furniture, pictures, lamps, and rugs.
• [Core] Assign staff to complete design ideas and prepare sketches, illustrations, and detailed drawings of sets, or graphics and animation.
• [Core] Observe sets during rehearsals in order to ensure that set elements do not interfere with performance aspects such as cast movement and camera angles.
• [Core] Design and build scale models of set designs, or miniature sets used in filming backgrounds or special effects.
• [Core] Read scripts to determine location, set, and design requirements.
• [Core] Attend rehearsals and production meetings to obtain and share information related to sets.
• [Supplemental] Direct and coordinate construction, erection, or decoration activities to ensure that sets or exhibits meet design, budget, and schedule requirements.
• [Supplemental] Select and purchase lumber and hardware necessary for set construction.
• [Supplemental] Coordinate the removal of sets, props, and exhibits after productions or events are complete.
• [Supplemental] Confer with conservators to determine how to handle an exhibit's environmental aspects, such as lighting, temperature, and humidity, so that objects will be protected and exhibits will be enhanced.
• [Supplemental] Arrange for outside contractors to construct exhibit structures.
• [Supplemental] Provide supportive materials for exhibits and displays, such as press kits, advertising, publicity notices, posters, brochures, catalogues, and invitations.
• [Supplemental] Incorporate security systems into exhibit layouts.
• [Supplemental] Coordinate the transportation of sets that are built off-site, and coordinate their setup at the site of use.

Detailed work activities

• Build models, patterns, or templates.
• Collaborate with others to determine technical details of productions.
• Conduct research to inform art, designs, or other work.
• Confer with clients to determine needs.
• Construct distinctive physical objects for artistic, functional, or commercial purposes.
• Construct exhibits or parts of exhibits.
• Coordinate construction or installation activities.
• Coordinate design activities.
• Coordinate logistics for productions or events.
• Design layout of art or product exhibits, displays, or promotional materials.
• Determine technical requirements of productions or projects.
• Develop artistic or design concepts for decoration, exhibition, or commercial purposes.
• Discuss production content and progress with others.
• Draw detailed or technical illustrations.
• Estimate costs for projects or productions.
• Inspect sets or exhibits.
• Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
• Maintain security.
• Present work to clients for approval.
• Promote products, activities, or organizations.
• Select materials or props.
• Study scripts to determine project requirements.