The stage plot

A stage plot is the visual part. It shows where performers and important equipment sit on the stage when viewed from the audience. A useful plot answers questions such as: Where is the drum kit? Which side is the guitar amp on? How many vocal positions are there? Who needs a monitor wedge? It lets the crew understand the physical setup at a glance.

The input list

An input list is the channel-by-channel handover to the sound engineer. It identifies each source going into the PA and can include the preferred microphone or connection, stand requirement and phantom power. The stage plot and input list should agree with each other. If the plot shows three vocals but the input list only contains two, somebody will have to solve that at soundcheck.

The technical rider

A technical rider is broader. It can contain the stage plot and input list, but it also covers requirements that do not fit neatly on the diagram: PA expectations, monitoring, backline, power, playback, wireless equipment, changeover notes and anything unusual about the show. Large touring productions can have very detailed riders; a pub, club or function band usually benefits from something shorter and easier to scan.

Do you need all three?

You need the information, but not necessarily three separate files. For many bands a single technical-rider PDF with a stage plot, input list and concise notes is easier for venues to store and forward. Stageplot is designed around that workflow: arrange the stage, check the generated inputs, add the notes that matter and export one document.

What does a venue actually want?

The person receiving the rider is trying to prepare the room before you arrive. They need to know what is coming through the PA, what the band supplies, what the venue is expected to supply and whether there are any setup constraints. Clear information beats an impressive-looking document. If a requirement is essential, state it plainly; if it is only a preference, label it as such.

When should you send it?

Send the current rider when the show is confirmed or when the promoter/venue asks for production information. For events booked well in advance, expect to resend an updated version closer to the date if the lineup or equipment changes. Put a band/contact name on the document so the production team knows who to ask if anything needs clarified.