How to Choose the Perfect Explainer Video Service for Your Business

Table of Contents
Picture of Stephen Conley
Stephen Conley
Stephen is Gisteo's Founder & Creative Director. After a long career in advertising, Stephen launched Gisteo in 2011 and the rest is history. He has an MBA in International Business from Thunderbird and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder, where he did indeed inhale (in moderation).

Introduction to Explainer Video Services

Definition of explainer videos

So, what exactly are explainer video services? Think of them as the Swiss Army knives of video marketing. These nifty little productions, whether they’re animated, live-action, or whiteboard-style, aim to break down complex ideas into bite-sized, digestible content. From corporate explainer videos that showcase your brand’s mission to product explainer videos that clarify how your latest gadget works, these videos are designed to inform and engage your audience.

Importance of explainer videos for businesses

In a world where attention spans are shorter than a TikTok clip, explainer videos are like the superheroes of communication. They can increase conversion rates by up to 20% according to HubSpot. That’s right! A well-crafted explainer video can turn passive viewers into enthusiastic customers faster than you can say “video storytelling services.” Here’s why they matter:

  • Clarity: They simplify complex concepts into engaging visuals.
  • Engagement: With eye-catching animations and compelling narratives, they keep viewers glued to the screen.
  • Versatility: From animated explainer videos to 2D explainer videos, there’s a format for every message.
  • Branding: They help establish your brand voice and personality in a fun way.

Key Takeaway: Investing in professional explainer video services is not just about making pretty pictures; it’s about enhancing communication and driving results for your business.

Overview of the blog post structure

This blog post is designed to guide you through the maze of choosing the perfect explainer video service. We’ll cover everything from understanding your business needs and evaluating potential service providers to budget considerations and measuring success. By the end, you’ll be armed with all the knowledge needed to find an explainer video agency that meets your specific requirements!

Let’s dive in!

A creative workspace with a team brainstorming ideas for animated explainer videos, featuring storyboards and sketches.

Understanding Your Business Needs

Identifying your target audience

Before you dive headfirst into the world of explainer video services, it’s crucial to take a step back and think about who you’re talking to. Identifying your target audience is like choosing the right ingredients for a recipe – get it wrong, and the dish can turn out bland or, worse, inedible.

Ask yourself:

  • Who are they? Consider demographics such as age, profession, and interests.
  • What do they care about? Pinpoint their pain points and what solutions your product or service offers.
  • How do they consume content? Are they more likely to watch animated explainer videos or prefer live-action corporate explainer videos? Knowing this will help tailor your approach.

For instance, if you’re targeting tech-savvy millennials, consider using snappy motion graphics explainer videos. But if your audience consists of seasoned professionals, a polished corporate explainer video may resonate better.

Defining your goals for the explainer video

Your explainer video should have a purpose – much like how Batman needs Gotham City. Are you looking to boost brand awareness? Drive sales? Educate potential customers? Defining clear objectives will help shape your video’s content and style.

Consider these common goals:

  • Aspiring to inform: If you’re aiming for education, think about creating educational explainer videos. These can break down complex concepts into digestible nuggets of wisdom.
  • Selling a product: If conversions are on your mind, then sales explainer videos, showcasing unique features and benefits, are the way to go!
  • Cultivating brand loyalty: For nurturing relationships with existing customers, consider crafting brand explainer videos that reinforce values and mission.

A well-defined goal not only clarifies what you want to achieve but also guides the entire production process – from scriptwriting to design choices. So channel those superhero powers of clarity!

Assessing your budget and resources

No one likes talking about money (cue the awkward silence), but let’s face it – budgeting is essential! Knowing how much you can invest in explainer video production will help narrow down options and set realistic expectations. Here are some tips for assessing your budget:

  • Determine your range: What’s feasible for you? Keep in mind that prices can vary widely based on factors like length, complexity (think 2D vs. 3D), and whether you’re opting for custom animations or template-based solutions.
  • Create a checklist: Outline all potential costs including scripting, storyboarding, voiceovers, animation styles (like whiteboard explainer videos) and any additional revisions. This helps prevent surprise expenses later!
  • Ponder ROI: Remember that investing in professional explainer video services is about more than just spending money; it’s about generating returns. Think of it as planting seeds for future growth!

The Bottom Line: Understanding your business needs is key to finding an explainer video agency. By identifying your target audience, defining goals, and assessing budgets wisely, you’ll be set up for success when choosing the best service provider!

Types of Explainer Video Services Available

Animated Explainer Videos

Let’s kick things off with the crowd favorite: animated explainer videos. These vibrant, colorful productions are like candy for the eyes! They can range from simple 2D explainer videos to more intricate 3D animations. The beauty of animation is its flexibility; you can illustrate anything from a complex software solution to a whimsical story about your brand. Plus, they’re great for capturing attention and conveying emotions!

Some popular styles include:

  • Motion Graphics: Perfect for showcasing data or processes.
  • Character Animation: Ideal for storytelling and creating relatable characters.
  • Stop Motion: A unique approach that adds a personal touch.

Animated explainer videos are not just visually appealing; they also allow for creative storytelling that can resonate with diverse audiences.

Live-Action Explainer Videos

If you’re looking to connect on a more personal level, live-action explainer videos might be your golden ticket. These videos feature real people, products, and environments, making them perfect for brands that want to showcase authenticity. Imagine a friendly face explaining your product while demonstrating its use-talk about relatable!

This format is particularly effective for:

  • Brand Storytelling: Sharing your company’s journey or mission.
  • Product Demonstrations: Showing how your product works in real life.
  • User Testimonials: Letting satisfied customers share their experiences directly.

The key here is that live-action videos build trust and credibility. Just think of them as the warm hug of the video marketing world!

Screencast and Whiteboard Videos

If you want to dive into the nitty-gritty details, screencast videos, and whiteboard explainer videos are fantastic options. Screencasts capture what’s happening on your screen-perfect for software tutorials or product walkthroughs. On the other hand, whiteboard animations offer an engaging way to illustrate concepts as they’re drawn out in real-time.

  • Screencast Videos: Great for tech companies wanting to demonstrate software features.
  • Whiteboard Explainers: Excellent for educational content where visual aids enhance understanding.

The charm of these formats lies in their simplicity-they focus on delivering information clearly and effectively without unnecessary fluff!

Comparison of Different Styles and Formats

Video Type Best For Pros
An animated explainer video Catching attention with creativity Easily customizable, engaging visuals, suitable for any audience type.
A live-action explainer video Create personal connections with viewers Adds authenticity, builds trust through real-life demonstrations.
A screencast video Tutorials or software demonstrations Crisp focus on functionality, easy to follow along with visual guidance.
A whiteboard explainer video Simplifying complex ideas Easily digestible content that keeps viewers engaged through dynamic drawing sequences.

The Bottom Line: Each style of explainer video services has its unique strengths. Depending on your goals-whether it’s education, engagement, or brand storytelling-choose a format that aligns best with your message!

A vibrant collage showcasing various styles of explainer videos including animated characters, live-action scenes, whiteboard sketches, and screencasts.

Evaluating Potential Service Providers

Researching Companies and Their Portfolios

When it comes to selecting the right explainer video services, doing your homework is critical. Think of this step as scouting for a new band to follow-you want to see their previous hits before joining the fan club! Start by browsing through various explainer video agencies and their portfolios. Look for:

  • Diversity of Styles: Do they offer everything from animated explainer videos to whiteboard explainer videos? A versatile company can adapt to your specific needs.
  • Quality of Work: Pay attention to the production quality. Are the animations smooth? Is the voiceover clear? These details matter.
  • Relevance: Have they worked with businesses similar to yours? If your company is a tech startup, look for examples of product explainer videos that effectively showcase tech solutions.

Your goal here is to find an explainer video studio that resonates with your vision and has a track record of producing engaging content. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for additional samples if needed!

Reading Client Testimonials and Reviews

No one knows a service better than those who’ve already experienced it! Client testimonials are like gold nuggets in the treasure hunt of finding an explainer video company. They provide insight into what you can expect. Here’s how to sift through them effectively:

  • Look for Specifics: Testimonials that mention particular strengths, such as creativity in video storytelling services, or responsiveness during the production process are more valuable than generic praise.
  • Avoid Red Flags: If multiple reviews mention poor communication or missed deadlines, take heed! These could be signs of trouble down the line.
  • Diverse Opinions: Check multiple platforms-Google, Yelp, or even social media-to get a comprehensive view of client satisfaction.

A well-reviewed agency will often have case studies showcasing their success stories. This can give you a clearer picture of how they approach projects like yours!

Assessing the Expertise and Experience of the Team

The team behind your potential explainer video is just as important as the final product itself! You wouldn’t hire a chef without checking their culinary credentials, right? Similarly, when evaluating an explainer video agency, consider these factors:

  • Their Background: What kind of experience does the team have? Look for professionals who specialize in explainer video animation, script writing, and design. A well-rounded team can bring various skills together for a cohesive final product.
  • Their Process: Ask about their workflow from concept to delivery. A solid production process ensures that every detail-from storyboarding to revisions-is handled efficiently.
  • Their Passion: Passionate teams often produce better work! Look for signs that they genuinely care about creating engaging content-this could be reflected in their communication style or willingness to brainstorm ideas with you.

The Bottom Line: Evaluating potential service providers is all about digging deeper than surface-level impressions. By researching portfolios, reading reviews, and assessing team expertise, you’ll be well on your way to finding an explainer video service that aligns perfectly with your business goals!

The Production Process: What to Expect?

Initial Consultation and Brainstorming Sessions

The journey to creating a stellar explainer video kicks off with an initial consultation. Think of this as a first date, where both parties get to know each other. You’ll share your vision, goals, and maybe even your favorite pizza toppings (just kidding about the toppings). During this session, the explainer video agency will gather crucial information about your business, target audience, and the message you want to convey.

Expect some brainstorming magic here! The team will likely throw around ideas for styles, formats (like animated explainer videos or whiteboard explainer videos), and storytelling techniques. This is where creativity flows freely, so don’t hold back on sharing your wildest explainer video ideas.

The Scriptwriting Phase: Importance of Messaging

Once everyone’s on the same page, it’s time for the scriptwriting phase. This is where your message gets polished into a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers. Think of it as crafting a catchy song-every word counts! A well-written script not only conveys information but also keeps your audience engaged.

Here are some key elements to consider during scriptwriting:

  • Clear Messaging: Your main points should shine through without unnecessary jargon.
  • Storytelling Techniques: Incorporating a narrative arc can make the content more relatable.
  • Call-to-Action: Don’t forget to guide viewers on what to do next after watching!

A strong script lays the foundation for successful explainer video production, ensuring that every frame aligns with your brand’s voice and objectives.

The Design and Animation Process Overview

This is where the magic truly happens! After finalizing the script, it’s time for design and animation. Picture a team of artists bringing your vision to life-this phase involves storyboarding, character design, and creating visual elements that will captivate your audience.

If you’ve chosen animated explainer videos, expect vibrant colors and dynamic animations that illustrate complex ideas simply. For live-action corporate explainer videos, this stage includes planning shoots and selecting locations. The design process can look like this:

  • Storyboarding: Visualizing scenes based on the script.
  • Animation Creation: Bringing characters and graphics to life with motion graphics or 2D animations.
  • Voiceover Recording: Adding that professional touch with a captivating voiceover artist.

This phase is crucial because it transforms abstract concepts into engaging visuals that resonate with viewers!

The Review and Revision Stages Explained

No great work of art is without its refinements! Once the initial cut of your explainer video animation is complete, it’s time for review and revisions. This stage ensures that everything aligns perfectly with your expectations. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

  • Your Feedback: You’ll get a chance to watch the draft and provide feedback on elements like pacing, visuals, or messaging.
  • Edit Requests: The team will incorporate any necessary changes based on your input-this could involve adjusting animations or tweaking voiceovers.
  • A Final Approval: Once you’re thrilled with the result (and we mean thrilled), you’ll give that final thumbs-up!

The Bottom Line: A well-structured production process-from initial consultation through revisions-ensures you end up with an engaging explainer video that effectively communicates your message while resonating with your target audience!

A creative team collaborating over storyboards for an animated explainer video project in a bright studio filled with sketches.

Budget Considerations for Explainer Video Services

A Typical Cost Range for Different Types of Videos

When diving into the world of explainer video services, understanding the cost landscape is crucial. Think of it as shopping for a new gadget; you want to know what’s out there and what fits your budget! Here’s a general breakdown:

Video Type Typical Cost Range
Animated Explainer Videos $3,000 – $10,000
Live-Action Explainer Videos $5,000 – $15,000
Screencast Videos $1,000 – $5,000
Whiteboard Explainer Videos $2,500 – $8,000
Interactive Explainer Videos $7,000 – $20,000+

These numbers can fluctuate based on various factors like complexity and length. So while you might find a budget-friendly explainer video service, remember that quality often comes with a price tag!

Factors Influencing Pricing (Length, Complexity, etc.)

The cost of explainer video production isn’t just about the type of video; it’s also influenced by several key factors:

  • Length: Generally speaking, longer videos require more time and resources to produce. A 30-second clip will cost less than a 2-minute masterpiece.
  • Complexity: If your video needs intricate animations or special effects (think 3D animations versus simple 2D), expect to pay more.
  • Scripting and Storyboarding: The time spent crafting a compelling script and visual plan can add to your overall costs. Great storytelling is worth its weight in gold!
  • Voiceover Talent: Hiring professional voice actors can elevate your video’s quality but will also impact the budget.
  • Revisions: More rounds of feedback and changes can lead to additional costs. It’s always good to clarify how many revisions are included in your package!

The takeaway? Be prepared to invest according to the depth and breadth of your vision.

The Bottom Line: Understanding these factors helps you make informed decisions about where to allocate funds when choosing an explainer video agency.

AI-Powered Explainer Videos 

Explainer videos are as effective as ever, but AI has opened the door to faster, more affordable, and highly flexible production. At Gisteo, we’ve embraced this shift with AI-powered explainer video services that blend our storytelling expertise with the latest technology.

Why AI Explainers?

  • Speed: Turnaround in days, not weeks.

  • Cost-effective: Automation lowers production costs without sacrificing quality.

  • Easy updates: Swap visuals or tweak messaging without rebuilding from scratch.

  • Multilingual options: AI voices and avatars make translation seamless.

  • Consistency: Keep the same look, feel, and brand voice across multiple videos.

How It Works

We keep the process simple:

  1. Strategy first – align on goals, audience, and message.

  2. Scriptwriting – we craft or refine your narrative for clarity and flow.

  3. Choose your style – avatar-based presenter videos or cinematic AI-generated scenes.

  4. AI production – best-in-class tools handle rendering.

  5. Human polish – our editors refine every detail so the final product is professional and on-brand.

Ideal Use Cases

AI explainers are perfect for:

  • Product or feature demos

  • Training and onboarding

  • Trailers or teaser campaigns
  • Internal communications

  • Customer education and how-to’s

  • Cinematic commercial type productions
  • Social media snippets

  • Multilingual/localized campaigns

Why Gisteo?

Anyone can push a script through AI software. What sets us apart is the story. We’ve created thousands of explainers over the years, and our team knows how to simplify complex ideas and make them resonate. By combining our proven storytelling approach with the latest AI tools, you get a video that’s not just quick and affordable — but also clear, compelling, and effective.

Tips for Getting Value for Your Investment in Video Services

Your budget is important, but getting value from that investment is essential! Here are some savvy strategies to maximize your spend on explainer video services:

  • Create Clear Objectives: Before approaching an agency, define what success looks like for you. Is it increased website traffic? Higher conversion rates? Having clear goals will guide both your creative process and help measure success later.
  • Select the Right Format: Choose a format that aligns with your message and audience preferences. For instance, if you’re targeting tech-savvy users, consider using motion graphics explainer videos.
  • Avoid Overcomplicating Things: Sometimes less is more! A straightforward message presented clearly can be far more impactful than trying to cram every detail into one video.
  • Pilot Testing: If possible, create shorter versions or teaser clips before launching full-length videos. This allows you to gauge audience reaction without committing all resources upfront.
  • Cultivate Relationships with Your Agency: Building rapport with your chosen explainer video company would enable smoother communication and collaboration throughout the project!

The Bottom Line: By following these tips and being strategic about how you allocate resources within explainer video creation , you’re setting yourself up for success in achieving those all-important business goals!

Measuring the Success of Your Explainer Video

KPI Metrics to Track Performance (Views, Engagement, Conversions)

Once your explainer video is live and kicking, it’s time to put on your detective hat and start measuring its success. Think of this as the report card for your video’s performance. Here are some essential KPI metrics to keep an eye on:

  • Views: The number of times your video has been watched. High view counts can indicate that your content is appealing and reaching a broad audience.
  • Engagement: This includes metrics like watch time, likes, shares, and comments. A high engagement rate suggests that viewers are not just watching but are also interacting with your content.
  • Conversions: Ultimately, the goal is to turn viewers into customers. Track how many viewers take action after watching-whether that’s signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase.

For instance, if you’ve created sales explainer videos, tracking conversions will directly show how effective your video is at driving sales!

A/B Testing Different Versions of the VideoA/B testing is like having a friendly duel between two versions of your explainer video. This method allows you to compare different elements such as visuals, messaging, or call-to-action placements to see which performs better. Here’s how to get started:

  • Create Variations: Develop two versions of your video with slight differences-for example, one might have a different voiceover while the other changes the animation style.
  • Select Your Metrics: Decide what you want to measure-will it be views, engagement rates, or conversion rates?
  • Launch and Analyze: Release both versions simultaneously (or staggered) and monitor their performance over a defined period.
  • Make Informed Decisions: Use the data collected from A/B testing to refine future videos based on what resonates best with your audience.

A/B testing can lead you down the path of continuous improvement in your explainer video strategies. It’s all about finding what works best for engaging and converting viewers!

The Bottom Line: Measuring success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about leveraging those insights to create even more effective explainer video content. By tracking key metrics and utilizing A/B testing techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to optimize your video marketing efforts!

A digital marketing team analyzing data from explainer video performance metrics on laptops in a modern office setting.

Making an Informed Decision on Explainer Video Services

So, you’ve journeyed through the world of explainer video services, and now it’s time to wrap things up with some actionable insights. Choosing the right explainer video agency can feel a bit like dating-there’s excitement, a little anxiety, and the hope that you find “the one” that truly understands your vision.

Reflect on Your Business Needs

Before you dive into the sea of options, take a moment to reflect on what you really need. Are you looking for animated explainer videos that dazzle or perhaps corporate explainer videos that convey professionalism? Knowing your goals will help narrow down your choices.

  • Identify Your Style: Do you want something playful and engaging or sleek and corporate?
  • Define Your Audience: Tailor your choice based on who will be watching. What resonates with them?
  • Establish Clear Objectives: Whether it’s increasing sales or brand awareness, be clear about what success looks like for you.
Dive Deep into Research

Your next step? Research potential providers like a detective hunting for clues! Look for portfolios that showcase their range-are they versatile enough to handle different styles from 2D explainer videos to whiteboard explainer videos? Also, don’t forget to check client testimonials; they’re like Yelp reviews for video agencies!

A few tips:

  • Diversity Matters: Ensure they can adapt to various formats and styles.
  • Quality Over Quantity: It’s better to choose a company with fewer but high-quality examples than one with many mediocre ones.
  • strong> Don’t hesitate to reach out for clarifications about their processes and past projects.
The Production Process is Key

A great explainer video doesn’t just happen overnight. It’s a collaborative process involving brainstorming, scripting, design, and revisions. Make sure the agency you choose has a well-defined production process that allows for feedback at various stages. This ensures you’re not left in the dark while they create your masterpiece!

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Your Input Counts: Be actively involved in the scriptwriting phase; it’s where your message takes shape!
  • Cohesive Storytelling: Ensure they focus on creating engaging narratives rather than just flashy visuals.
  • Smooth Communication: Clear channels of communication will make everything flow better-from initial ideas to final revisions.
Budget Wisely and Strategically

You’ve got your heart set on creating an incredible video, but let’s not forget about budget considerations! Understand what you’re willing to invest in explainer video production costs. Remember that while affordable options exist, quality often comes at a price!

A few budgeting tips include:

  • Create a Realistic Budget: Factor in all aspects of production-not just animation costs!
  • Ponder ROI: Think about how this investment can generate returns down the line-whether through increased sales or enhanced brand awareness.
  • Avoid Hidden Costs: Clarify how many revisions are included in the package before signing any contracts!

Final Thoughts

So, you’ve journeyed through the world of explainer video services, and now it’s time to wrap things up with some actionable insights. Choosing the right explainer video agency can feel a bit like dating—there’s excitement, a little anxiety, and the hope that you find “the one” that truly understands your vision.

At the end of the day, your video should do more than just look good. It should simplify, engage, and persuade. That’s where Gisteo comes in. For over a 14 years, we’ve specialized in creating traditional animated, live-action, screencast, and whiteboard explainers that clarify complex ideas and bring stories to life. And now, with our AI-powered explainer video services, we can also deliver faster turnarounds, lower costs, and scalable content while still keeping our storytelling-first approach.

Whether you need a cinematic animated production to wow prospects, a polished corporate video to build trust, or a quick, multilingual AI explainer to roll out across markets, Gisteo gives you the best of both worlds:

  • Proven storytelling expertise from thousands of explainer projects.

  • Flexible production options — from handcrafted animation to cutting-edge AI.

  • Value-driven pricing that balances quality with efficiency.

  • A strategy-first mindset — because your message is what matters most.

  • An affordable Yearly Plan– to empower you with multiple videos of different lengths and styles throughout the year

The bottom line? If you want a partner who can help you communicate clearly, connect emotionally, and adapt to the evolving world of video, Gisteo is the right choice.

👉 Ready to explore your next explainer video project? Don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation here.

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