In spring 2020, normal production work changed almost overnight. Under owner and DIT Dan Skinner's leadership, SetNet responded by building remote-production packages and operating workflows that allowed more of the production process to continue without putting a full crew in one location.
As SetNet's IT Manager, I helped turn that operational pivot into working technology. The early approach used portable systems that could be delivered to a location, provide redundant connectivity, and extend control of professional cameras, lighting, monitoring, and production communication beyond the set.
Building the two-box remote workflow
The two-box workflow gave a production a practical way to establish stable internet and connect essential production tools without rebuilding an entire technical facility at every location. My work included the networking, bonded connectivity, remote-control integration, monitoring, equipment packaging, testing, documentation, and support behind the deployment.
The goal was not remote production as an abstract idea. It was a system that could arrive, be configured consistently, and give directors, camera teams, and other approved participants a dependable way to communicate and work.
Creating new production responsibilities
Technology was only half of the pivot. SetNet also developed Zoom rooms that represented production spaces such as the set, green room, video village, and technical room. Supporting those rooms created Zoom Host and Zoom Assist responsibilities as part of the production workflow.
SetNet recruited and trained union DITs and other production personnel to operate and support the remote systems. That work helped preserve union jobs at a time when conventional production methods were unavailable or severely limited. This was a SetNet achievement led by Dan, supported by the team that developed, deployed, and operated the workflow.
Recognition for Dan and SetNet
In December 2021, ICG Magazine named Dan one of its Change Makers. The profile documented SetNet's remote packages, Zoom-room workflows, training, and other production technology developed during this period. SetNet's announcement links to the ICG feature on pages 82 and 83.
Where this chapter fits
This chapter records SetNet's initial operational pivot in spring 2020: keeping people working, creating new responsibilities, and proving that the remote approach could support real productions. The January 2021 chapter, Building SetNet's Remote Production Workflow, continues the story by focusing on how the technology matured into a tested, documented, and repeatable system.