HaveYouHeard combines content and production in one department

Cape Town-based agency, HaveYouHeard, has launched a content production department to improve turnaround times, reduce costs and add value during the creative process for clients like Old Mutual, Martell, Cape Town Tourism and YouTube.

Comprising an in-house video content studio with camera, lighting and audio equipment and a green-screen facility, as well as an in-house audio recording studio for podcasting and voice-over recording, the new division is jointly headed by Carl Booysen and Jon Savage.

It will produce the television commercials, branded videos, pieces of audio and stills content that HaveYouHeard utilises to satisfy its clients’briefs. According to Co-Founder Jason Stewart, specialised production companies have historically been the custodians of the production process, while agencies have focused on the concept but didn’t develop or produce it. In the fast-moving digital space, however, content specialists are a vital part of any team. Combining the two into one powerful team is a ‘no-brainer’ for agencies seeking to move quickly on behalf of their clients.

“Previously content work would only be outsourced to a production company after all the creative work like scripting and approach had been signed off and approved by the client. Having started our in-house production division, the team can be involved in the process from the very start. This ensures we are able to add value from the outset, deliver the best possible quality content within the client’s budget, and without needing to be scheduled into a production company’sworkflow,” said Stewart.

Booysen has a Masters Degree in Motion Picture Production and has worked with an impressive array of local and international film companies, including a seven-year stint at Moonlighting Film Production Services and three years heading up the content production

company, Thread. “With 15 years’ experience of sound, camera and logistics across all kinds of productions – reality TV, travel shows, documentaries,feature films, TV commercials, and branded content – Carl brings a wealth of knowledge and a diverse skill set to any project we take on,” Stewart added.

“Jon is a leading figure in production and broadcast globally. He is one of a handful of South African directors to feature at the Cannes film festival, has won two Liberty Radio Awards for The Eye digital radio station, numerous Loeries and international innovation awards such as SXSW digital broadcast innovation of 2018.”