Your show file is more than just a container—it’s your workspace, your defaults, your rhythm. Structuring your GrandMA3 show file intentionally makes it easier to program, faster to recall, and simpler to navigate whether you're running a compact rig or full campus setup. The right layout makes a big difference in live environments where speed and clarity matter.

Optimizing the View Button Area

On smaller setups like a command wing or compact, screen real estate is precious. Turning off the encoder toolbar gives you 10 full view buttons down the right-hand side—versus just 7 when it’s on. You’ll have to manually include the encoder toolbar in each view you want it visible, but the tradeoff is worth it for more accessible buttons.

Also make sure to remove unnecessary elements like the title bar when saving views—those little layout tweaks help maximize usable space.

Default View Priorities

Order matters:

1. Fixture Sheet – your go-to for seeing fixture activity

2. Sequence Sheet – see cue structure at a glance

3. Position Presets, Color Presets, All Pools – grouped by use and labeled for clarity

4. Focus/Zoom/Gobo Presets – especially important for key lighting

Each preset pool can include a fixture sheet or cue sheet on the side so you can immediately verify what’s been applied without toggling between views.

Customizing for Songs and Cues

Use labeled views for each song or section:

• “Song 1,” “Song 2,” etc., link directly to grouped phasers or presets

• Create stacked phaser pools and use views to jump to specific rows

• Maintain layout and group views at the bottom for quick access

All Pools and Utility Views

Keep extra all preset pools around for versatile use. Control presets (for resets and lamp controls) should be easy to find but not in the way—embed them in your layout view and enable Show Empty to tighten up the display.

Executor and Macro Placement

Keep the most-used executors (key light, haze, main sequence) closest to center. Less-used items go further out or on separate pages.

X keys are ideal for macro functions like:

• Clear Programmer

• Store/Update/Label Cues

• Utility tools for service transitions

Every show file looks a little different—and that’s good. But the best ones all have this in common: they’re laid out consistently, with intention, and tuned to the team’s real-world workflow.