Set and Exhibit Designers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 0 (0%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 20 (74%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 7 (26%)

• Develop set designs, based on evaluation of scripts, budgets, research information, and available locations.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Prepare rough drafts and scale working drawings of sets, including floor plans, scenery, and properties to be constructed.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Prepare preliminary renderings of proposed exhibits, including detailed construction, layout, and material specifications, and diagrams relating to aspects such as special effects or lighting.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Read scripts to determine location, set, and design requirements.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Submit plans for approval, and adapt plans to serve intended purposes, or to conform to budget or fabrication restrictions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Research architectural and stylistic elements appropriate to the time period to be depicted, consulting experts for information, as necessary.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Observe sets during rehearsals in order to ensure that set elements do not interfere with performance aspects such as cast movement and camera angles.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Collaborate with those in charge of lighting and sound so that those production aspects can be coordinated with set designs or exhibit layouts.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Select set props, such as furniture, pictures, lamps, and rugs.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Design and build scale models of set designs, or miniature sets used in filming backgrounds or special effects.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Examine objects to be included in exhibits to plan where and how to display them.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Assign staff to complete design ideas and prepare sketches, illustrations, and detailed drawings of sets, or graphics and animation.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Estimate set- or exhibit-related costs, including materials, construction, and rental of props or locations.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Plan for location-specific issues, such as space limitations, traffic flow patterns, and safety concerns.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Acquire, or arrange for acquisition of, specimens or graphics required to complete exhibits.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Design and produce displays and materials that can be used to decorate windows, interior displays, or event locations, such as streets and fairgrounds.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Direct and coordinate construction, erection, or decoration activities to ensure that sets or exhibits meet design, budget, and schedule requirements.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Confer with conservators to determine how to handle an exhibit's environmental aspects, such as lighting, temperature, and humidity, so that objects will be protected and exhibits will be enhanced.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Incorporate security systems into exhibit layouts.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Provide supportive materials for exhibits and displays, such as press kits, advertising, publicity notices, posters, brochures, catalogues, and invitations.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Attend rehearsals and production meetings to obtain and share information related to sets.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Confer with clients and staff to gather information about exhibit space, proposed themes and content, timelines, budgets, materials, or promotion requirements.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Inspect installed exhibits for conformance to specifications and satisfactory operation of special-effects components.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Coordinate the transportation of sets that are built off-site, and coordinate their setup at the site of use.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Select and purchase lumber and hardware necessary for set construction.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Arrange for outside contractors to construct exhibit structures.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Coordinate the removal of sets, props, and exhibits after productions or events are complete.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task