An Examination of Similarity between a Costume Designer and a Production Designer: Job Analysis Goes to Hollywood

This study examines the similarity of two unique positions in Hollywood—a costume designer and a production designer. It applies traditional job analysis and job evaluation methods in an industry with little history of doing so. Job data from interviews, questionnaires, and secondary sources were content analyzed for themes and categories. Quantitative data were collected and analyzed for supplemental evidence in comparing the similarity of the two positions. The study incorporated criteria from the California Fair Pay Act of 2016 in the assessment. Eight subject matter experts (SMEs) provided both narrative and quantitative data in response to the comprehensive job analysis. The results of the study show that these positions are sufficiently similar according to the criteria set forth in the California Fair Pay Act, raising issues concerning observed pay disparities between these positions. The findings also support the use of traditional methods of human resource management and industrial and organizational psychology in novel industries with unique positions. Finally, conclusions, limitations and implications are considered.