Aliena Leonhard
The idea behind dirAct grew out of a desire to bring about lasting change in the world of film production. We saw a clear need for seamless, intuitive communication. The result is dirAct – a sophisticated platform optimised for mobile devices that uses artificial intelligence to deliver tailored information to every team member in real time. Shaped by academic research and practical experience, dirAct is more than just a software solution; it is a promise of more efficient, creative and cost-effective film production.
What are your biggest challenges at the moment?
Innovation requires financial resources. Whilst the EXIST-Women programme allows me to focus entirely on validating our idea, diAct can only survive in the long term if we successfully secure follow-on funding.
Networking with industry experts and gaining access to the competitive film market are the crucial next steps for our project. Another personal challenge for me lies in public speaking. I want to develop myself significantly during the programme so that I can give our project even greater visibility and weight through a confident demeanour.
What is your goal for the duration of the EXIST-Women programme?
Our main goal is to conduct a comprehensive beta testing phase with selected film production companies to gather valuable feedback directly from the field. In parallel, we aim to build strategic partnerships with key players in the film industry to specifically boost our brand awareness.
In addition, we will prepare targeted marketing and PR initiatives to consistently increase the visibility of dirAct at national and international film festivals, trade fairs and industry events.
"Someone who supported me at the start once said in passing: 'It has to be fun... on the whole, it always has to be fun; that’s why we’re going into business.'"