Explainer Videos 101: Everything Startups and Enterprises Need to Know Before Hiring a Production Team

If you are comparing proposals for explainer video production companies, here's the short answer– your explainer video should make it clear to the viewer what you do, why it is important and what to do next – all within 90 seconds! Conversion rates for web pages using video landing pages are reported to be almost double those without, which is why explainer videos have become a staple for product launches, pitch decks and onboarding processes. Before hiring an explainer video production company, here's what you should know about explainer videos:

What is an Explainer Video?

An explainer video is a short, informative and engaging video (usually 60-120s) which explains and simplifies what a product or service is and why someone should care. Unlike advertisement videos (which usually feature a person selling the product or service), or demo videos (which demo the features of a product or service in detail), explainer videos are ideal for quickly explaining an idea on a landing page, pitch deck or social media feed.

Types of Explainer Videos

Depending on the requirement and budget, there are different types of explainer videos available.

• Animated (includes 2D, whiteboard animation and motion graphics): Best when the product is intangible or requires heavy explanation (like a SaaS product or financial service).
• Live-action: These explainers use real-life objects and people to showcase the product or service. Ideal for brand-centric products
• Screencast or Product Demo: Explains the product or service through its interface (common for apps)
• Mixed media (combination of animation and live-action): Offers a better visual appeal

When to use Explainer Videos?

Explainer videos find their use in multiple scenarios –

• Product launch
• Fundraising and investor onboarding
• User onboarding (especially for a new product)
• Conversion rate optimisation (especially for a landing page)
• Sales team enablement (a go-to video for any client meeting)

Usually, if you find yourself repeatedly explaining something over and over again, an explainer video is a much more efficient way to get the message out.

What Goes into Production?

The basic process is that a writer creates a script, followed by a storyboard, which is then converted into a voiceover recording and animated or filmed. Sound design, mixing and revisions form part of the later stages of production. In general, explainer video projects (depending on the complexity and revision cycles) take between 2-6 weeks between the kick-off and delivery. It is best to avoid rushing through the script or storyboarding stage (as it can add time down the line).

How Much Does an Explainer Video Cost?

The cost of animation explainer videos varies by complexity. There are three main types of animated explainers:

• Budget (basic whiteboard animation or use of a template)
• Mid-tier (2D animation with script and voiceover)
• Premium (motion graphics, character animation, mixed-media)

Video length, animation complexity, and number of revisions also affect cost. It is best to have a breakdown of deliverables before finalizing the proposal.

Startup vs Enterprise Explainer video requirements

• Startups: Typically need a faster turnaround and more focused messaging with tighter budgets.
• Enterprise: Requires extra care and multiple approvals, along with adherence to branding and legal guidelines

What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring an Explainer Video Production Company?

Depending on your requirements, here's a list of questions we recommend asking before hire explainer video company:

• Do you have examples of explainers made for similar clients or services?
• Do you have in-house expertise for scriptwriting?
• How many rounds of revisions are allowed?
• What is the expected turnaround time?
• Do you keep the source files of the explainer video?

What Should I Look Out for in an Explainer Video Production Company?

Avoid production teams that skip reviewing and finalising the script or storyboard. Also, be wary of teams that are unclear about their costing structure or disorganised about their past work. These red flags suggest the production team isn't organised enough to handle your project.

Ready to get started?

We have produced explainer videos for multiple startups and enterprises across India. From first-time founders to enterprise product teams, here's our portfolio and case studies.

FAQs

How long should an explainer video be?

Most explainer videos are between 60- 90 seconds long. It is best to keep it concise yet informative

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Which is better for my explainer: animated vs live action?

It depends on the type of product or service. Animated videos are best for explaining abstract ideas, whereas live-action videos are better at showcasing tangible products and brand-centric services

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Do I need a script for my explainer video?

A script helps to get the basic structure of the explainer. Most production teams have a process to finalise the script or storyboard with you, but it helps to have a clear idea of the key points you want your audience to take away from your explainer video.