It is recognised that scripts are at the very core of the film and television industry, yet scriptwriters remain some of the most exploited and underpaid players in the production process.

The South African Scriptwriters' Association (SASWA) is undertaking an assessment of professional norms of the scriptwriting profession in the film and television industry across South Africa. By doing so, the organisation means to begin to recommend standards that will assist scriptwriters, producers and broadcasters in ensuring that a more professional working environment for all is possible.

To do this successfully, SASWA calls on all players in the industry to participate in the survey. The National Film and Video Foundation is supporting the survey as an important step towards professionalising the industry. Submissions to the survey are confidential and will not be released on an individual basis, but as part of a general results analysis, which SASWA intends publishing by July 31, 2003.

There are three separate questionnaires, one each for Scriptwriters, Producers and Broadcasters. To receive a copy of the survey, contact the SASWA office at 011 678 3838. The surveys can also be downloaded on the SASWA website at www.saswa.org.za

SASWA is a volunteer based organisation, dedicated to improving the standards of professional scriptwriting in the country. SASWA's primary aims include enhancing the skills of aspirant and professional writers and negotiating improved working conditions.