Delivery Schedule
Timeline specifying when completed film elements must be submitted to distributors, broadcasters, or streaming platforms.
Definition
A contractually binding timeline that outlines specific dates for delivering various technical and creative elements required for distribution, including final picture, sound mixes, subtitles, marketing materials, and legal documentation.
Delivery schedules coordinate post-production workflows with distribution requirements, ensuring all necessary elements are completed in proper sequence to meet release dates and distribution commitments while allowing adequate time for quality control and approvals.
Why It Matters
Meeting delivery schedules is essential for maintaining distribution commitments and avoiding financial penalties or contract termination that can result from late delivery of required elements.
Proper delivery schedule management ensures adequate time for post-production quality control while meeting distributor technical specifications and marketing timeline requirements for successful release coordination.
Examples in Practice
Theatrical releases require delivery of final color-corrected picture, surround sound mixes, closed captions, and marketing materials typically 8-12 weeks before release date to accommodate distribution preparation.
Streaming platform deliveries include technical specifications for multiple resolution formats, subtitle files in various languages, and metadata requirements delivered according to platform-specific schedules.
International sales require delivery of textless versions, music and effects tracks separate from dialogue, and various technical formats to accommodate different territory requirements and local distribution needs.