The Covid-19 that hit the world back in 2020 shocked many. It even crippled some industries and business unfortunately has to close its doors.
While that may be the case for some, we’ve seen some rose during the pandemic and were able to survive.
Unlike Hollywood, the animation industry still managed to keep its door open, airing new episodes weekly, keeping everyone at home entertained.
Though it didn’t come without a few hiccups, the animation industry managed to sustain itself and here are the factors we consider.
Planning and preparation beforehand amongst team members helps to prepare for any unwanted situation.
Preparation
According to an article by Entertainment Weekly that interviewed animator Glen Keane, virtual communication is not something new within the animation industry.
Working with various production offices across the nation taught him to use the video conferencing tools available.
When the pandemic hit, they were prepared while many industries were struggling (and panicking) to communicate during lockdown.
Though we can never know what may hit us, it won’t hurt to venture and explore new ways to communicate or operate as it can really prepare you for the worst.
Challenges can be nerve-wrecking but try to see it as an opportunities to grow.
Accepting Challenges
Challenges can be frightening, we understand. Especially during the pandemic, the animation industry was pushed past their limitations in order to deliver.
Though large sized studios reported to face 10% to 30% of decline in productivity for technical, management and organisational matters, they needed to bounce back in order to survive the uncertain times.
Accepting the challenges that came ahead, developers had to regroup and become more organised and communicative amongst team members, progress was constantly tracked down in order to ensure the projects met the deadline.
The challenges that came provide animators with unlikely opportunities.
Making The Best Out Of Opportunities
With the pandemic, new norms were introduced and just like any other business, studios are moving to different kinds of projects and formats.
For example, 3D animation is now being employed in different industries, mainly entertainment and sport with the introduction of virtual animated stage or music videos such as; Doja Cat’s 2020 VMA Performance and Blackpink x PUBG Mobile music video, Ready For Love.
Meanwhile in sport events, virtual crowds were animated for live broadcasts.
Despite the limitations coming into play, the animation industry still managed to survive some of its challenging times with these three factors.
You don’t need to be an animation studio, any business can benefit from these three tips.