Directors Toolset Manual

The Directors Toolset is a comprehensive software suite designed for film and video directors, featuring storyboard creation, shot planning, script analysis, scheduling tools, collaboration features, and production management capabilities. Below are key sections for features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Working with Projects 8. Collaboration Features 9. Maintenance & Updates 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Storyboard Creator, Shot Planner, Script Analyzer, Scheduling Module, Collaboration Hub, Export Tools.

Feature	Description
Storyboard Creator	Digital storyboarding with drag-and-drop interface
Shot Planner	Plan camera angles, movements, and shot sequences
Script Analyzer	Break down scripts and generate reports
Scheduling Module	Create and manage production schedules
Collaboration Hub	Real-time team collaboration and feedback
Export Tools	Export to various formats (PDF, XML, Final Draft)
Template Library	Pre-built templates for different project types
Asset Manager	Organize and manage project assets
Version Control	Track changes and manage project versions
Mobile Sync	Sync projects across multiple devices

Installation

Download and install the Directors Toolset software.

System Requirements: Check minimum system requirements before installation.
Download: Obtain installation file from official website or distribution media.
Run Installer: Execute setup file and follow on-screen instructions.
Activation: Enter license key when prompted during installation.
Complete Setup: Restart computer if required and launch application.

WARNING! Ensure adequate disk space and system permissions for proper installation.

First-Time Setup

Launch Directors Toolset and configure initial settings.

User Profile: Create or import user profile with preferences.
Workspace Setup: Configure default workspace layout and toolbars.
Project Templates: Select or create project templates.
Collaboration Settings: Set up team access and permissions.
Backup Configuration: Configure automatic backup settings.

CAUTION! Save configuration settings before starting first project.

Specifications

Platform: Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, Linux Ubuntu 18.04+
Memory: Minimum 8GB RAM, 16GB recommended
Storage: 2GB installation space, plus project storage
Display: 1920x1080 minimum resolution
Input Devices: Mouse, keyboard, touchscreen compatible
Export Formats: PDF, XML, Final Draft, Fountain, CSV
Collaboration: Real-time multi-user editing
Cloud Storage: Integrated cloud sync options
Language Support: English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese

Controls and Settings

Access main menu via toolbar or keyboard shortcuts. Main Interface: Project Browser, Tool Palette, Properties Panel, Timeline.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Ctrl+N (New Project), Ctrl+S (Save), Ctrl+Z (Undo), Ctrl+Y (Redo), Spacebar (Play/Pause).

Project Settings: Resolution, frame rate, aspect ratio, color space. User Preferences: Interface theme, auto-save interval, default file locations. Collaboration: User permissions, comment notifications, version history. Export: Quality settings, format options, compression levels.

Connecting Devices

External monitor support, tablet input, storage devices.

External Display: Connect via HDMI, DisplayPort, or Thunderbolt.
Tablet Input: Support for Wacom and similar drawing tablets.
Storage Devices: External drives for project backup and archiving.
Network Storage: Connect to NAS or cloud storage services.

Tip: Ensure drivers are updated for optimal device performance.

Working with Projects

Create, manage, and export production projects.

New Project: Select template or create custom project.
Import Assets: Bring in scripts, images, and reference materials.
Storyboarding: Create shot sequences with visual elements.
Shot Planning: Define camera setups and movements.
Scheduling: Build production timeline with milestones.
Collaboration: Invite team members and assign tasks.
Review: Conduct reviews with comment and annotation tools.
Export: Generate reports and deliverables for production.

WARNING! Regularly save projects and maintain backups to prevent data loss.

Collaboration Features

Real-time collaboration: Multiple users can work simultaneously. Comments and annotations: Team feedback system. Version history: Track changes and revert if needed. Permission levels: Admin, editor, viewer access controls.

Maintenance & Updates

Regular updates: Check for software updates monthly. Project backup: Automatic and manual backup options. Performance optimization: Clear cache and temporary files regularly.

CAUTION! Back up projects before installing major updates.

Regulatory Information

Copyright © 2024 Directors Toolset Software. All rights reserved. Patent pending. For technical support, visit www.directorstoolset.com/support or contact [email protected]. Compliance: GDPR, CCPA compliant data handling practices.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Software won't launch	Corrupted files/system requirements	Reinstall software; check system requirements; update graphics drivers.
Project files corrupted	File corruption/disk errors	Use backup files; run disk repair utilities; contact support.
Performance issues	Insufficient RAM/background processes	Close other applications; increase virtual memory; update software.
Export failures	Format compatibility/disk space	Check export settings; ensure adequate disk space; try different format.
Collaboration errors	Network issues/permissions	Check internet connection; verify user permissions; restart application.

Reset: Preferences > Reset to Defaults if experiencing persistent issues.

Support: [email protected]; www.directorstoolset.com/support