There are certain elements of a show file that you should never copy. If you are the programmer for the opening act of a concert, you should not copy cues from the main act and use them as your own! Additionally, when working in a shared venue, it is not a good idea to copy another person’s show file and make subtle changes…But if you are not familiar with the power of your console’s copy commands, then I suggest you start practicing. Many times when programming, copying can be a powerful tool to assist in getting cues written faster. Whether copying cues, parameter setting, setup options, or other vital data, remember that copying provides a quick way to restore previous work.
—Brad Schiller, from Feeding the Machines, PLSN, June 2009