Wiktionary
preproduction
n. All the preliminary arrangements that are made before the start of a project, especially before the filming of a movie.
Usage examples of "preproduction".
Preproduction physical exams are routine nonevents, perfunctory once-overs by doctors working for studio insurance carriers.
However, with rewrites, preproduction, and all the things that go on in Hollywood, actual shooting did not start until around October or November.