OnAirFlow vs Google Docs
for show rundowns
Google Docs is everyone's first rundown tool. Here's why teams eventually outgrow it—and what to use instead.
We've all been there
Every live show starts the same way: someone creates a Google Doc with a table. It works great... at first. Then the show grows. The team expands. The document gets longer. Formatting breaks. People edit the wrong version. And suddenly you're spending more time managing the doc than planning the show.
Google Docs is a brilliant tool for writing. But a rundown isn't a document—it's a live coordination system. That's a fundamentally different job.
Feature comparison
How they compare for live show production
| Feature | OnAirFlow | Google Docs |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time collaboration | Built for live production speed | Good, but not optimized for live |
| Teleprompter mode | Native teleprompter with speed control | None—requires separate tool |
| Segment timing | Automatic time tracking and alerts | Manual text entry only |
| Rundown structure | Pre-built segment blocks with metadata | Freeform text, tables break easily |
| Breaking news workflow | One-click alerts to all screens | Update doc and hope people see it |
| Show archive | Searchable database of all shows | Folder of files to dig through |
| Mobile editing | Optimized mobile experience | Mobile app available |
| Price | 14-day free trial, no credit card | Free with Google account |
Problems you'll recognize
And how OnAirFlow solves them
The table formatting nightmare
The Problem
You build a beautiful rundown table in Google Docs. Someone pastes content and the whole thing breaks. Columns shift, rows merge unexpectedly, and you spend 10 minutes fixing formatting instead of prepping content.
The Solution
OnAirFlow uses structured data, not document formatting. Segments can't break because they're not tables—they're purpose-built blocks.
The "which version?" problem
The Problem
Rundown_v3_FINAL_updated_USE_THIS_ONE.docx. Sound familiar? Even with Google Docs' version history, teams end up with multiple copies and confusion about what's current.
The Solution
OnAirFlow has one rundown per show. Everyone always sees the same thing. No versions, no confusion.
The refresh anxiety
The Problem
During the show, you make a change. Did the anchor see it? You can't tell if their tab is even open. You end up texting "refresh your doc" during critical moments.
The Solution
OnAirFlow pushes changes instantly. You can see who's connected and what they're viewing in real-time.
The "scroll to find it" scramble
The Problem
It's a 3-hour show. The rundown is 47 pages. The anchor needs to jump to segment 23. They're scrolling frantically while the producer counts down.
The Solution
OnAirFlow has instant segment navigation. Click a segment, you're there. No scrolling, no searching.
When Google Docs still makes sense
The right tool for the right job
Google Docs is still excellent for:
- Script drafting and long-form writing
- Meeting notes and agendas
- Show bibles and reference documents
- Guest research compilation
Many teams use Google Docs for pre-production and OnAirFlow for show day. They complement each other well.
Easy to switch
You don't have to abandon Google Docs overnight. Start by running your next show in OnAirFlow—use a template, import your existing rundown, and see the difference. Most teams never go back.
Browse rundown templatesFrequently asked questions
Can I import my Google Docs rundown into OnAirFlow?
Yes. You can copy content from your Google Doc directly into OnAirFlow segments. Choose a matching template and paste your existing rundown to get started in minutes.
Do I have to stop using Google Docs entirely?
Not at all. Many teams use Google Docs for script drafting and research, then move to OnAirFlow for show-day execution. They complement each other well.
Why is OnAirFlow better than Google Docs for live shows?
Google Docs is a document editor — it lacks teleprompter mode, segment timing, breaking news alerts, and structured rundown blocks. OnAirFlow is purpose-built for live coordination under pressure.
How much does OnAirFlow cost compared to Google Docs?
Google Docs is free. OnAirFlow offers a 14-day free trial with no credit card required. The investment pays for itself through reduced prep time and fewer on-air mistakes.
See more comparisons
Ready to graduate from Google Docs?
Join the teams who've upgraded their live production workflow.