PART 2 The Process, Script, and Production Plan Building an Outline The program outline begins with a series of headings showing the main themes that need to be discussed. Let's use the example of an instructional video about "building a wall." In this case, the top- ics that might be covered could include: tools needed, materials, foundation, making mortar, and methods of laying bricks and pointing. We can now determine how much program time can be devoted to each topic. Some will be brief and others relatively lengthy. Some of the topics will need to be emphasized; others will be skipped over to suit the purpose of the program. The next stage is to take each of the topic headings and note the various aspects that need to be covered as a series of subheadings. Under "tools," for instance, each tool that must be dem- onstrated should be listed. Now there is a structure for the program and the director can begin to see the form it is likely to take. Research Some programs, such as dramas (especially period dramas), documentaries, news, interviews, and others need to complete research in order to create the program's content or make sure that the existing content is accurate. This research may involve going to the library, doing online research, or contacting recognized experts in the content area of the show. Travel may even be required.