Every project that includes multiple steps and artists needs a pipeline to guide them.
When I started my Technical Director career by adding helpful tools and basic pipeline elements to my projects I noticed that there were barely any pipelines for use or for inspiration online.
The purpose of the Open Source Pipeline Plex is to be
a basic pipeline for small to mid-sized projects
customizable to the different project needs
a code and structure template for your own pipeline
a sophisticated documentation for pipeline creation and to explain the different elements and decisions
What is Plex exactly?
Plex is a Visual Effects, Animation and Games pipeline managing important workflows during production. Its core is a flexible and independent system for small to mid-sized projects and companies. The basic idea is to handle the file and folder structure, setup basic rules and guide the workflow to allow collaboration in a complex production environment. Plug and play.
Intuitively guiding the input and output of users to overcome problems and achieve goals. Now you have a good game ... or pipeline.
Environments
OS: Windows | Linux | Mac
Software: Maya 2020+ | Houdini 15+ | 3ds Max 2020+ | Nuke 12+ | ...
Renderer: Arnold | RenderMan | Mantra | V-Ray | ...
Project Features
Visual Effects, Animation & Game production management system
file & folder management (settings | create | save | load | publish)
flexible, portable, multi functional project environment
additional libraries (api | img | user | shot)
workflow tracking & reporting
user-pipeline integration
SSTP (simple | smart | transparent | performant)
Pipeline Features
Layered Pipeline
create a company pipeline
add a project pipeline
test and develop in a personal environment
Scripts
desktop app
save (+ publish) | load | create | render
get, set and handle data | img | scripts
template UI (user, report, help, accept, comment, color code)
setup menu, shelf, toolbar, ...
Workflows and Charts
naming conventions
software pipeline
folder structure (project & pipeline)
Data and Helper
project (resolution, fps ...)
user (name, task ...)
context (shot, task, comment ...)
environment variables (PROJECT_PATH ...)
additional libraries
Feedback & Debug (+ advanced logging)
inform user about processes
debug like a king *bow*
Projects
Breaking Point [VFX short film 2016] Winner VES Award 2017 & Winner Siggraph Asia 2016
Elemental [VFX short film 2016] FMX Trailer 2017
Animan
Drool Pool
...
Watch the live presentation of Plex at the FMX 2017.
How to
You like to use Plex in your own project? Here is a multi video introduction into the pipeline, how to set it up and customize it to your projects needs:
Note: Works best if you have a technical background and scripting knowledge.