Navigating the Complexities of Production with Noble
Sep 25, 2025
Andrew Hatling's Journey with Saturation.io
In the dynamic landscape of film production, efficient budget management and streamlined operations are crucial for success. Andrew Hatling, a seasoned Executive Producer (EP) with a rich background in production, shares his journey of founding Noble, a production company that has successfully navigated the challenges of production management and budgeting softwares.
The Challenge - Spreadsheets Don’t Scale
Andrew's career has taken him from directing in LA to working in ad agencies in New York and Minneapolis. Despite this diverse experience, a persistent issue was the inefficiency of traditional budgeting solutions found within platforms like Movie Magic Budgeting. He emphasizes the tedious and inefficient nature of manual tracking and estimating, "Sending over a spreadsheet just isn't really a sexy thing to a client for a production company – if we’re calling ourselves creative… hopefully we’re bringing that through everything we do”.
Andrew Hatling, Founder & EP at Noble
The Search for Solutions
Determined to find a better way for his video productions, Andrew explored various tools for a new film budgeting software. "There's gotta be a better method out here," he thought, leading him to discover Saturation. Initially, it was a leap of faith. "I came across Saturation a few years ago, it was really, really close to what we were looking for," he remembers. At first, using a new tool for him and his team was a challenge.
He highlights “When I saw it, I thought, this is a very, very new thing, which made me a little bit apprehensive, thinking, Is this a reliable tool?”. After trying it out, Andrew’s view changed, “When you get into it, it starts to really make sense”. Despite initial apprehensions, Andrew and his team became early adopters, recognizing the potential that had been unlocked.
“We Are The Light” for MN Aurora FC, 2024
The Transformation - Budgeting From Pitch to Wrap
The adoption of Saturation marked a significant turning point. "Once we started getting into it, adapting to it a bit, it became a lot easier," Andrew notes. The tool streamlined processes, reducing reliance on error-prone spreadsheets and integrating seamlessly with other systems like QuickBooks.
When asked about the difference between Saturation and other budget management softwares like Hot Budget, Showbiz, Movie Magic Budgeting, and others, Andrew answered, "Day and Night - From UI, just the user experience of it, aesthetically, it just looks a lot less clunky," he explains. “Talking about Movie Magic Budgeting and tools like that, I don't think anyone loves that software. Everyone has plenty to complain about with it. And that alone was a reason for me to look elsewhere.”
“Introducing: EVERSE8” for Electro-Voice, 2021
He explained that just because a tool was used for a while doesn’t mean it has to be used forever. He advises producers, “Some tools feel like you're stuck in the nineties using them. And there's really no reason why you need to do that when there are tools out there that offer a fix.” Andrew discussed how there may be concerns that newer tools in production budgeting won’t measure up to the standards for the industry. However, he assures producers, “What's nice about Saturation is it still allows you to have all the formatting we're used to and that clients are going to expect in terms of having your categories and being easy to read and recognize and go into detail, but then solves some of the many issues other tools have.”
“Recruit a Friend” for HealthPartners, 2023
Usage and Global Reach
Andrew reflects Saturation's global capabilities and how it allows production teams to collaborate seamlessly across borders, while its offline functionality ensures that work can continue uninterrupted, even in remote locations. He explains, “Being able to issue credit cards, have them be virtual, not having to wire money or try to meet up and exchange cash ahead of a shoot, it’s been super nice. And then having it automatically logged. That's been really, really cool and a huge evolution for our workflow.”
“The Soul of the Prairie” for PRAIRIE, 2024
Looking Ahead - More Efficiency, Fewer Tools
For Andrew, the dream is to consolidate tools and increase efficiency. "A key to running a business is about being more efficient – so I’m always looking at how we can use fewer tools and have those tools do more work for us," he emphasizes. The evolution of Saturation continues to impress, with each iteration bringing new features that align with Andrew's vision for the future.
“Pretty Smart” for Walmart, 2024
Summary: Key Considerations for Choosing Saturation.io for Production Budgeting
When evaluating Saturation.io as a budgeting tool for production management, it's essential to understand its unique features and benefits. Here are the key points to consider that can help streamline your decision-making process.
Streamlined Budgeting Process – Saturation.io simplifies the budgeting workflow, allowing for efficient tracking and management from pitch to wrap.
Integration with Existing Systems – The tool seamlessly integrates with platforms like QuickBooks, enhancing your existing financial management processes.
User-Friendly Interface – With an intuitive design, Saturation.io offers a more aesthetically pleasing and less clunky experience compared to traditional tools.
Global Collaboration Capabilities – The platform supports remote teamwork, enabling production teams to collaborate effectively across different locations.
Offline Functionality – Users can continue working without interruption, even in areas with limited internet access, ensuring productivity is maintained.
Virtual Credit Card Management – The ability to issue virtual credit cards simplifies financial transactions and enhances security during production.
Continuous Feature Updates – Saturation.io regularly evolves, introducing new features that align with modern production needs and improve overall efficiency.
Enhanced Reporting and Analytics – The tool provides insightful analytics that help in making informed financial decisions throughout the production lifecycle.
The Future of Budgeting is Here
Noble's journey underscores the importance of embracing innovative solutions to overcome traditional challenges in production management and budgeting. As Andrew notes, "You don't have to accept that this stuff has to be clunky and difficult to use." By leveraging cutting-edge tools like Saturation, production companies can streamline operations and enhance their competitive edge.
Andrew Hatling's Journey with Saturation.io
In the dynamic landscape of film production, efficient budget management and streamlined operations are crucial for success. Andrew Hatling, a seasoned Executive Producer (EP) with a rich background in production, shares his journey of founding Noble, a production company that has successfully navigated the challenges of production management and budgeting softwares.
The Challenge - Spreadsheets Don’t Scale
Andrew's career has taken him from directing in LA to working in ad agencies in New York and Minneapolis. Despite this diverse experience, a persistent issue was the inefficiency of traditional budgeting solutions found within platforms like Movie Magic Budgeting. He emphasizes the tedious and inefficient nature of manual tracking and estimating, "Sending over a spreadsheet just isn't really a sexy thing to a client for a production company – if we’re calling ourselves creative… hopefully we’re bringing that through everything we do”.
Andrew Hatling, Founder & EP at Noble
The Search for Solutions
Determined to find a better way for his video productions, Andrew explored various tools for a new film budgeting software. "There's gotta be a better method out here," he thought, leading him to discover Saturation. Initially, it was a leap of faith. "I came across Saturation a few years ago, it was really, really close to what we were looking for," he remembers. At first, using a new tool for him and his team was a challenge.
He highlights “When I saw it, I thought, this is a very, very new thing, which made me a little bit apprehensive, thinking, Is this a reliable tool?”. After trying it out, Andrew’s view changed, “When you get into it, it starts to really make sense”. Despite initial apprehensions, Andrew and his team became early adopters, recognizing the potential that had been unlocked.
“We Are The Light” for MN Aurora FC, 2024
The Transformation - Budgeting From Pitch to Wrap
The adoption of Saturation marked a significant turning point. "Once we started getting into it, adapting to it a bit, it became a lot easier," Andrew notes. The tool streamlined processes, reducing reliance on error-prone spreadsheets and integrating seamlessly with other systems like QuickBooks.
When asked about the difference between Saturation and other budget management softwares like Hot Budget, Showbiz, Movie Magic Budgeting, and others, Andrew answered, "Day and Night - From UI, just the user experience of it, aesthetically, it just looks a lot less clunky," he explains. “Talking about Movie Magic Budgeting and tools like that, I don't think anyone loves that software. Everyone has plenty to complain about with it. And that alone was a reason for me to look elsewhere.”
“Introducing: EVERSE8” for Electro-Voice, 2021
He explained that just because a tool was used for a while doesn’t mean it has to be used forever. He advises producers, “Some tools feel like you're stuck in the nineties using them. And there's really no reason why you need to do that when there are tools out there that offer a fix.” Andrew discussed how there may be concerns that newer tools in production budgeting won’t measure up to the standards for the industry. However, he assures producers, “What's nice about Saturation is it still allows you to have all the formatting we're used to and that clients are going to expect in terms of having your categories and being easy to read and recognize and go into detail, but then solves some of the many issues other tools have.”
“Recruit a Friend” for HealthPartners, 2023
Usage and Global Reach
Andrew reflects Saturation's global capabilities and how it allows production teams to collaborate seamlessly across borders, while its offline functionality ensures that work can continue uninterrupted, even in remote locations. He explains, “Being able to issue credit cards, have them be virtual, not having to wire money or try to meet up and exchange cash ahead of a shoot, it’s been super nice. And then having it automatically logged. That's been really, really cool and a huge evolution for our workflow.”
“The Soul of the Prairie” for PRAIRIE, 2024
Looking Ahead - More Efficiency, Fewer Tools
For Andrew, the dream is to consolidate tools and increase efficiency. "A key to running a business is about being more efficient – so I’m always looking at how we can use fewer tools and have those tools do more work for us," he emphasizes. The evolution of Saturation continues to impress, with each iteration bringing new features that align with Andrew's vision for the future.
“Pretty Smart” for Walmart, 2024
Summary: Key Considerations for Choosing Saturation.io for Production Budgeting
When evaluating Saturation.io as a budgeting tool for production management, it's essential to understand its unique features and benefits. Here are the key points to consider that can help streamline your decision-making process.
Streamlined Budgeting Process – Saturation.io simplifies the budgeting workflow, allowing for efficient tracking and management from pitch to wrap.
Integration with Existing Systems – The tool seamlessly integrates with platforms like QuickBooks, enhancing your existing financial management processes.
User-Friendly Interface – With an intuitive design, Saturation.io offers a more aesthetically pleasing and less clunky experience compared to traditional tools.
Global Collaboration Capabilities – The platform supports remote teamwork, enabling production teams to collaborate effectively across different locations.
Offline Functionality – Users can continue working without interruption, even in areas with limited internet access, ensuring productivity is maintained.
Virtual Credit Card Management – The ability to issue virtual credit cards simplifies financial transactions and enhances security during production.
Continuous Feature Updates – Saturation.io regularly evolves, introducing new features that align with modern production needs and improve overall efficiency.
Enhanced Reporting and Analytics – The tool provides insightful analytics that help in making informed financial decisions throughout the production lifecycle.
The Future of Budgeting is Here
Noble's journey underscores the importance of embracing innovative solutions to overcome traditional challenges in production management and budgeting. As Andrew notes, "You don't have to accept that this stuff has to be clunky and difficult to use." By leveraging cutting-edge tools like Saturation, production companies can streamline operations and enhance their competitive edge.
Andrew Hatling's Journey with Saturation.io
In the dynamic landscape of film production, efficient budget management and streamlined operations are crucial for success. Andrew Hatling, a seasoned Executive Producer (EP) with a rich background in production, shares his journey of founding Noble, a production company that has successfully navigated the challenges of production management and budgeting softwares.
The Challenge - Spreadsheets Don’t Scale
Andrew's career has taken him from directing in LA to working in ad agencies in New York and Minneapolis. Despite this diverse experience, a persistent issue was the inefficiency of traditional budgeting solutions found within platforms like Movie Magic Budgeting. He emphasizes the tedious and inefficient nature of manual tracking and estimating, "Sending over a spreadsheet just isn't really a sexy thing to a client for a production company – if we’re calling ourselves creative… hopefully we’re bringing that through everything we do”.
Andrew Hatling, Founder & EP at Noble
The Search for Solutions
Determined to find a better way for his video productions, Andrew explored various tools for a new film budgeting software. "There's gotta be a better method out here," he thought, leading him to discover Saturation. Initially, it was a leap of faith. "I came across Saturation a few years ago, it was really, really close to what we were looking for," he remembers. At first, using a new tool for him and his team was a challenge.
He highlights “When I saw it, I thought, this is a very, very new thing, which made me a little bit apprehensive, thinking, Is this a reliable tool?”. After trying it out, Andrew’s view changed, “When you get into it, it starts to really make sense”. Despite initial apprehensions, Andrew and his team became early adopters, recognizing the potential that had been unlocked.
“We Are The Light” for MN Aurora FC, 2024
The Transformation - Budgeting From Pitch to Wrap
The adoption of Saturation marked a significant turning point. "Once we started getting into it, adapting to it a bit, it became a lot easier," Andrew notes. The tool streamlined processes, reducing reliance on error-prone spreadsheets and integrating seamlessly with other systems like QuickBooks.
When asked about the difference between Saturation and other budget management softwares like Hot Budget, Showbiz, Movie Magic Budgeting, and others, Andrew answered, "Day and Night - From UI, just the user experience of it, aesthetically, it just looks a lot less clunky," he explains. “Talking about Movie Magic Budgeting and tools like that, I don't think anyone loves that software. Everyone has plenty to complain about with it. And that alone was a reason for me to look elsewhere.”
“Introducing: EVERSE8” for Electro-Voice, 2021
He explained that just because a tool was used for a while doesn’t mean it has to be used forever. He advises producers, “Some tools feel like you're stuck in the nineties using them. And there's really no reason why you need to do that when there are tools out there that offer a fix.” Andrew discussed how there may be concerns that newer tools in production budgeting won’t measure up to the standards for the industry. However, he assures producers, “What's nice about Saturation is it still allows you to have all the formatting we're used to and that clients are going to expect in terms of having your categories and being easy to read and recognize and go into detail, but then solves some of the many issues other tools have.”
“Recruit a Friend” for HealthPartners, 2023
Usage and Global Reach
Andrew reflects Saturation's global capabilities and how it allows production teams to collaborate seamlessly across borders, while its offline functionality ensures that work can continue uninterrupted, even in remote locations. He explains, “Being able to issue credit cards, have them be virtual, not having to wire money or try to meet up and exchange cash ahead of a shoot, it’s been super nice. And then having it automatically logged. That's been really, really cool and a huge evolution for our workflow.”
“The Soul of the Prairie” for PRAIRIE, 2024
Looking Ahead - More Efficiency, Fewer Tools
For Andrew, the dream is to consolidate tools and increase efficiency. "A key to running a business is about being more efficient – so I’m always looking at how we can use fewer tools and have those tools do more work for us," he emphasizes. The evolution of Saturation continues to impress, with each iteration bringing new features that align with Andrew's vision for the future.
“Pretty Smart” for Walmart, 2024
Summary: Key Considerations for Choosing Saturation.io for Production Budgeting
When evaluating Saturation.io as a budgeting tool for production management, it's essential to understand its unique features and benefits. Here are the key points to consider that can help streamline your decision-making process.
Streamlined Budgeting Process – Saturation.io simplifies the budgeting workflow, allowing for efficient tracking and management from pitch to wrap.
Integration with Existing Systems – The tool seamlessly integrates with platforms like QuickBooks, enhancing your existing financial management processes.
User-Friendly Interface – With an intuitive design, Saturation.io offers a more aesthetically pleasing and less clunky experience compared to traditional tools.
Global Collaboration Capabilities – The platform supports remote teamwork, enabling production teams to collaborate effectively across different locations.
Offline Functionality – Users can continue working without interruption, even in areas with limited internet access, ensuring productivity is maintained.
Virtual Credit Card Management – The ability to issue virtual credit cards simplifies financial transactions and enhances security during production.
Continuous Feature Updates – Saturation.io regularly evolves, introducing new features that align with modern production needs and improve overall efficiency.
Enhanced Reporting and Analytics – The tool provides insightful analytics that help in making informed financial decisions throughout the production lifecycle.
The Future of Budgeting is Here
Noble's journey underscores the importance of embracing innovative solutions to overcome traditional challenges in production management and budgeting. As Andrew notes, "You don't have to accept that this stuff has to be clunky and difficult to use." By leveraging cutting-edge tools like Saturation, production companies can streamline operations and enhance their competitive edge.
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