Ontime

Ontime is an open-source, cross-platform application designed for planning and managing the order of execution and timing of live events. It facilitates the tracking of show schedules, managing automation and event data between departments, from a single environment. The application is accessible from any device with a web browser on the network.

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• Rundown Editor. Central interface to create, modify, delete, and reorganize all elements of an event's schedule. Allows detailed configuration of each cue, including duration, type, notes, and color properties. Supports importing spreadsheets from Excel or Google Sheets as a starting point for structuring the event.
• Stage Timer. Main timer displaying the elapsed or remaining time of the current event, along with information about the next item on the schedule. It is the central component for communicating time to presenters, artists, and technical crew on stage and behind it.
• Customizable Timer Layouts. Template and preset system for timer screens. Offers initial layouts that can be customized in visual aspects and displayed information. Saved layouts maintain their responsiveness across all devices, from production screens to mobile phones.
• Backstage View. Production view showing extended and detailed rundown information, not intended for the public. Includes data such as internal notes, status of scheduled delays, and technical information, aimed at the behind-the-scenes team, managers, and operators.
• Public View. Public screen with a filtered version of the rundown, showing only events marked as public. Designed to be displayed on audience signage, venue information screens, or streams, with a clear and concise format for viewers.
• Cuesheet Operator Screen. Operational interface for control during rehearsals and live shows. Provides a detailed view of the cue sheet, allowing operators and show callers to follow the execution, manually launch cues, and view progress with relevant real-time information.
• Real-time Collaboration. Architecture that allows multiple production team roles to connect simultaneously to the same session. Directors, operators, and backstage crew can see and, depending on permissions, interact with event data, with synchronized updates for all connected.
• Delay Management. Tools to insert, manage, and communicate delays in event execution. Applied delays are automatically propagated to the rest of the schedule and reflected in real-time in all views (Stage Timer, Backstage, Public) to keep the team synchronized.
• Network-synchronized Screens. System that publishes the different views (Timer, Backstage, Public, etc.) as web pages accessible on the local network. Any device with a browser can access these URLs, allowing information to be displayed on tablets, phones, computers, media servers, or signage screens.
• Multiple API Integrations. Offers several programming interfaces for integration with existing workflows. Includes support for OSC (Open Sound Control), HTTP API, and WebSockets for remote control and automation. Has a module for Bitfocus Companion software.
• Automated Rundown Execution. Operation mode where rundown execution can run autonomously, following the system clock and the predefined durations of each event. Also allows semi-automatic control or complete manual control by an operator.
• Event Color Coding & Filtering. Ability to assign colors to different events or event types within the editor. This color-coding system aids in quick visual identification during planning and execution, and can be used in combination with filters to customize views.
• Note-taking System. Functionality that allows team members to add annotations to specific rundown events. These notes can be visible to everyone (production notes) or personal, helping with coordination and serving as a reminder during rehearsals and performances.
• Cross-platform Desktop Application. The main application is available as a native executable for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, ensuring compatibility with most desktop computers used in production environments.
• Self-hosted Docker Deployment. Deployment option using a Docker image, allowing the Ontime server to be hosted on your own infrastructure. This modality offers greater control over the installation and is suitable for integrations into more complex or permanent production networks.

Ontime's development began in 2020. The program was created by a team of developers with experience in the live event and audiovisual production industry. The main motivation was to offer an open-source tool that addressed the specific needs of real-time synchronization and communication during shows. Ontime is written primarily in TypeScript, using the Node.js runtime environment for the backend and modern web frameworks for the frontend user interface.

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