FOST, a 2D animation studio founded in 2018 by Thibaut Ruby and Damien Bruner, has experienced a remarkable evolution in a short span. Initially starting with a modest team, the studio has grown significantly, particularly highlighted by their recent work on the series Splinter Cell. This project demanded a team of 150 individuals, a substantial increase from their previous maximum of around 60.
Céline Durieux, the head of the studio, explains that this expansion was driven by both opportunity and ambition. The chance to work on Splinter Cell was a major milestone, showcasing FOST's ability to handle large-scale, multisite projects. With studios in Paris and Angoulême, managing such a dispersed team required innovative solutions and significant adjustments in their operational processes.
The recruitment process at FOST had to be overhauled to accommodate the demands of larger projects. Céline highlights that the traditional, more artisanal methods of recruitment were no longer viable. Instead, they needed structured processes to ensure they could efficiently and effectively bring in the right talent.
One of the key challenges was ensuring seamless communication between the studios in Paris and Angoulême. This was particularly crucial as they transitioned to a multisite operation. To address this, FOST implemented dedicated roles focused on recruitment and communication, ensuring that all applicants were properly vetted and that there was no overlap or miscommunication between the different locations.
Cybersecurity has become a paramount concern for animation studios, especially when working with high-profile clients like Ubisoft and platforms like Netflix. FOST's journey in enhancing their cybersecurity measures began with the realisation that their existing systems were inadequate for the scale of projects they were undertaking.
Céline underscores the importance of self-education and adapting to industry standards. They implemented rigorous security protocols, including the Trusted Partner Network (TPN) guidelines, which set a high bar for data protection. This involved not only technical upgrades but also extensive training and awareness programmes for the staff to ensure everyone understood the importance of these measures.
The shift to remote work was accelerated by external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and local transportation strikes. The transition to more robust remote work solutions was a significant undertaking.
After a series of trials and errors with various software, FOST found a reliable remote work system that allowed seamless collaboration without compromising on the quality of work. This system enabled artists to work on high-resolution animation projects without experiencing lag, thus maintaining productivity and morale.
As FOST continues to grow, maintaining a cohesive and creative work environment is a priority. Céline emphasises the importance of regular internal events like the "Show Me Yours," where different project teams share their progress and achievements. This not only fosters a sense of community but also allows team members to see the broader scope of the studio's work.
Centralising recruitment under the studio heads also plays a crucial role in maintaining this cohesion. By personally knowing each team member and understanding their strengths and aspirations, Céline and her team can ensure that everyone is placed in roles where they can thrive and contribute to the studio's success.
In conclusion, the journey of the FOST team offers valuable insights into the challenges and innovations in 2D animation management. From scaling the studio and enhancing cybersecurity to adapting to remote work, FOST's evolution is a testament to the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the animation industry.