Understanding Explainer Videos: The Basics
What Are Explainer Videos?
At its core, an explainer video is a short, concise video that explains a product, service, or concept in a way that's easy for viewers to understand. These videos typically range from 60 to 90 seconds and use a combination of visuals, narration, and sometimes music to convey information in an engaging and memorable way.
Explainer videos can take various forms, but one of the most popular types is the animated explainer video. So, what is an animated explainer video? It's a style of explainer that uses animation to bring concepts to life, making complex ideas more accessible and entertaining for viewers.
The Power of Visual Storytelling
The human brain processes visual information 60,000 times faster than text. This incredible statistic underscores why explainer videos are so effective. By combining visual elements with concise narration, these videos can convey complex information in a fraction of the time it would take to read a lengthy article or brochure.
In my experience, I've seen businesses dramatically increase their conversion rates after implementing explainer videos on their websites. One client in the tech industry saw a 300% increase in product sign-ups after we created a 60-second animated explainer video for their landing page.
Why Explainer Videos Are Essential for Your Business
- Simplify Complex Ideas: Explainer videos excel at breaking down complicated concepts into easily digestible bits of information.
- Boost Engagement: Videos are inherently more engaging than text, keeping viewers' attention for longer periods.
- Improve SEO: Google loves video content, and having an explainer video on your site can improve your search engine rankings.
- Increase Conversion Rates: Studies show that including an explainer video on a landing page can increase conversions by up to 80%.
- Enhance Brand Awareness: A well-crafted explainer video can help establish your brand's voice and personality.
How to Create Explainer Videos That Drive Results
Now that we understand what explainer videos are and why they're important, let's explore how to create them effectively.
Step 1: Define Your Goals and Audience
Before you start creating your explainer video, it's crucial to clearly define your goals and target audience. Ask yourself:
- What do you want to achieve with this video?
- Who is your target viewer?
- What problem does your product or service solve for them?
Step 2: Craft a Compelling Script
The script is the backbone of your explainer video. It should be concise, engaging, and focused on your main message. Remember, you only have about 60-90 seconds to capture your audience's attention and convey your message.
Pro tip: Start with a hook that grabs attention, then follow the problem-solution-benefits structure for maximum impact.
Step 3: Choose Your Style
Decide on the style of your explainer video. While animated explainer videos are popular due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness, you might also consider:
- Live-action videos
- Whiteboard animations
- Motion graphics
- Screencast videos
The choice depends on your brand, message, and target audience.
Step 4: Create Storyboards and Visuals
If you're wondering how to make an animated explainer video, storyboarding is a crucial step. This process involves sketching out each scene of your video, helping you visualize the flow and ensure your message is clear.
Step 5: Produce Your Video
This is where your explainer video comes to life. Whether you're working with a professional video production company or creating it in-house, pay attention to details like:
- High-quality visuals
- Clear, professional voiceover
- Engaging background music
- Smooth transitions between scenes
Step 6: Optimize and Distribute
Once your video is complete, it's time to share it with the world. Optimize your video for search engines by:
- Using keyword-rich titles and descriptions
- Creating an engaging thumbnail
- Adding closed captions
Distribute your video across multiple channels, including your website, social media platforms, and email marketing campaigns.
The Impact of Explainer Videos: Real-World Success Stories
Let me share a couple of success stories that demonstrate the power of explainer videos:
Dropbox: When Dropbox first launched, they used a simple animated explainer video on their homepage. This video increased conversions by 10%, resulting in 10 million new customers and $48 million in revenue.
Crazy Egg: After implementing an explainer video on their homepage, Crazy Egg saw a 64% increase in conversions, leading to an additional $21,000 in monthly revenue.
These examples show that when done right, explainer videos can have a significant impact on your business's bottom line.
The Future of Explainer Videos
As technology advances, we're seeing exciting new trends in the world of explainer videos:
- Interactive Videos: Allowing viewers to interact with the content, making the experience more engaging and personalized.
- VR and AR Integration: Virtual and augmented reality technologies are opening up new possibilities for immersive explainer videos.
- AI-Powered Personalization: Using artificial intelligence to create personalized explainer videos based on viewer data and preferences.
- Micro-Explainer Videos: Ultra-short videos designed for social media platforms and decreasing attention spans.
Conclusion: Harness the Power of Explainer Videos
In today's digital landscape, explainer videos have become an indispensable tool for businesses looking to communicate effectively with their audience. By simplifying complex ideas, boosting engagement, and driving conversions, these short, powerful videos can transform your marketing strategy and help your business thrive.
Whether you're wondering what an explainer video is, how to make an animated explainer video, or how to create explainer videos that drive results, the key lies in understanding your audience, crafting a compelling message, and delivering it through high-quality visuals and storytelling.
Ready to take your marketing to the next level? Start exploring the world of explainer videos today and watch your business grow!
FAQs
Q: What's the ideal length for an explainer video?
A: While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, most effective explainer videos are between 60 to 90 seconds long. This duration is short enough to maintain viewer attention while providing enough time to convey key information.
Q: How much does it cost to create an explainer video?
A: The cost can vary widely depending on factors like style, length, and production quality. Simple animated videos might start at $1,000, while high-end productions can cost $20,000 or more. Many businesses find that the ROI justifies the investment.
Q: Can I create an explainer video myself, or should I hire a professional?
A: While it's possible to create simple explainer videos using online tools, professional-quality videos often require expertise in scriptwriting, animation, and video production. For best results, consider working with a professional or agency experienced in creating explainer videos.
Q: How often should I update my explainer video?
A: It's a good idea to review and potentially update your explainer video annually or whenever there are significant changes to your product, service, or brand. This ensures your video remains accurate and relevant to your audience.
Q: What platforms are best for sharing explainer videos?
A: Your website's homepage or landing page is often the best place for your main explainer video. However, you should also consider sharing on YouTube, social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, and in email marketing campaigns to maximize reach and impact.