How much time does it really take to prepare content for an event?

One of the most common misunderstandings between a client and a production studio is the time required to create event content. From the outside, it may seem like preparing animations for LED screens is just a matter of a few days — especially if “the material already exists” or “it’s just a few graphics.” In reality, the process is much more complex and consists of many stages that all need to work together.

Why does it take time at all?

Event content is not created in isolation. Every project depends on:

  • the stage and screen layout (pixel map)
  • stage design and lighting
  • the event scenario
  • the playback system
  • and the overall character of the event

Each of these factors can influence changes in the project. That’s why production time is not just about “making animations,” but about an entire creative, technical, and decision-making process.

Stage 1: Brief and analysis (1–3 days)

The first stage is gathering information. And although it may seem simple, it often takes longer than expected.

At this stage:

  • the event objective is clarified
  • the event scenario or its assumptions are analyzed
  • technical conditions are reviewed (screens, space, formats)
  • the visual style is defined

This is often the moment when additional questions come up. The more complex the event, the more dependencies need to be considered.

Stage 2: Visual direction and concept (2–5 days)

After gathering the information, the creative direction is developed. This is not production yet, but it is the key moment that defines the entire project.

During this stage:

  • moodboards and references are created
  • the animation style is defined
  • the first visual concepts are presented
  • the client approves the overall direction

This stage is often iterative — it frequently requires several versions before the final style is approved.

Stage 3: Content production (3–14 days or more)

This is the most time-consuming part of the entire process.

Depending on the scale of the project, it includes:

  • animation design
  • adapting content to the pixel map
  • testing proportions and layouts
  • revisions and iterations
  • exports and preparation of final versions

Simple productions may take a few days, but larger multi-screen setups can require several weeks of work.

The number of screens, content length, and level of complexity also play a major role here.

Stage 4: Testing and technical adjustments (1–3 days)

This is a stage that often remains invisible, but has huge importance.

At this stage:

  • display accuracy is checked
  • files are tested on playback systems
  • formats and resolutions are adjusted
  • technical issues are eliminated

This is often where issues appear that were not visible earlier — for example, problems with aspect ratios, synchronization, or readability.

Stage 5: Last-minute changes (variable)

In event production, one more element always has to be taken into account — last-minute changes.

These may result from:

  • changes in stage design
  • updates to the event scenario
  • client decisions
  • technical conditions on-site

That’s why it is always necessary to leave a time buffer. In practice, this is one of the most important parts of the entire process.

Why does “doing it quickly” rarely work?

The biggest problem appears when the entire process is compressed as much as possible. When that happens:

  • there is not enough time for testing
  • there is no room for revisions
  • decisions are made in a rush
  • the risk of on-stage errors increases

The final result may still look good, but the risk of technical issues rises significantly.

Summary

The time required to prepare event content is not one fixed number. It is the sum of many stages that all need to work together.

In practice, you can assume:

  • small projects: a few days to one week
  • medium-sized productions: 1–2 weeks
  • large multi-screen productions: several weeks

The most important thing, however, is not exactly how long it takes, but making sure every stage has enough room to be refined. Because in event production, speed and quality rarely go hand in hand.