Staying in touch

“Without digital tools this programme wouldn’t have been a success. Choose tools with a low barrier to access, that are freely available to everyone in your network. Be creative. Experiment. Get people interacting outside of the work you are making together – maybe start a digital book club or have video ‘hang outs’ with no set agenda. Really simple ideas can help promote a genuine sense of community over distance that will improve your ability to collaborate.”
– Pete Vance, Producer – Watershed

A WhatsApp group encouraged regular informal conversation, providing a platform for sharing selfies when our paths crossed in the real world which ignited excitement and anticipation for future connectivity. The creation of a ‘digital home’ on Slack (an online communication platform) was useful for seeking advice or sharing opportunities. Regular one-to-one video meetings with the Lead Producer allowed us to check in with their progress and achievements and respond quickly to any challenges. Whilst these interventions may not be ground-breaking, it became habitual for the Creative Producers to engage with each other at distance and utilise the collective expertise of the group during their creative development process.