Adapting Transcript-First Editing for Non-Dialogue Projects?

Hey everyone,

I've been using the 'transcript-first' editing approach for my documentary work, it's a lifesaver for cutting down interviews, especially with the automatic transcriptions on my NLE. It makes sense for dialogue-heavy projects where the narrative is primarily spoken word. I'm currently cutting a short film that’s more experimental, much more reliant on visual storytelling and atmosphere than direct dialogue, shot primarily on my KOMODO with some B-cam FX3 footage.

Now, I'm trying to figure out how to even begin applying this 'transcript-first' mindset to something like this. There are some sparse voiceovers, but the emotional core comes from imagery, sound design, and music. I've tried transcribing the voiceovers, of course, but it doesn't give me the full picture for pacing or visual rhythm.

For those of you who've branched out from pure documentary, how have you adapted the 'transcript-first' methodology, if at all, for projects like music videos, experimental films, or even highly visual narratives where dialogue isn't the main driver? What methods have you found effective for structuring and refining your edits?