Annas Aisya

October 5, 2023 | 12 min read

What Is an Explainer Video? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Explainer Video

What Is an Explainer Video?

You've likely seen those short, catchy videos on websites, social media, and even in emails. These are explainer videos, and they're like quick marketing clips that help explain what a company offers. They're usually just 60-90 seconds long, and their main job is to teach and share information.

But why are they so popular in digital marketing? It's because of how we behave online these days. We're more into watching short videos on Netflix and scrolling through tweets than reading long books or articles. Our attention spans have become super short, even shorter than a goldfish's! In this fast-paced online world, explainer videos have become a valuable tool for businesses to quickly and clearly show what they're all about.

Breaking it Down

Explainer videos are a potent combination of visual and auditory elements. This blend is powerful because around 65% of people learn better through visuals, and our brains process visuals a whopping 60,000 times faster than text. So, when you watch an explainer video, your brain gets a workout, and it's easier to remember and understand the information.

But it's not just science; there's art involved too. Explainer videos are not just about slapping together some animations and a voiceover. They're about creating a captivating story, about taking complicated ideas and turning them into easy-to-understand, relatable tales. It's this fusion of science and art that makes them a potent tool in a marketer's toolbox.

Explainer Videos in Today's Digital Landscape

Explainer videos aren't just for startups or tech companies; businesses from various fields are using them because they are effective. Why? Because they work! Websites with videos are 53 times more likely to appear on Google's front page. Plus, when you watch a message in a video, you remember 95% of it, compared to just 10% when you read it.

In simple terms, explainer videos are not a passing trend. They match our digital evolution by catering to our shorter attention spans, our preference for visual learning, and our constant desire for content that both teaches and entertains.

What Makes a Good Explainer Video?

The Magic of Simplicity

If you want to make an explainer video that really connects with your audience, the secret is to start with simplicity. A great explainer video isn't about fancy graphics or award-winning voiceovers; it's about getting your message across in the simplest, most straightforward way possible. Think of it like explaining a new business idea to a friend over a drink – you wouldn't use complicated jargon; you'd break it down so they quickly get the main point.

A Story That Sticks

Here's a simple truth: people love stories. It's how we've been passing down knowledge for ages, and it's why we binge-watch TV shows. A great explainer video taps into this love for stories. It's not just about giving out facts; it's about turning them into a tale that viewers can relate to. Maybe it's a story about a frustrated customer who discovers your product and solves their problems, or it could be a fun story about how your service was created. Whatever the story, it should be easy to understand and remember.

Visual and Auditory Harmony

Have you ever seen a video where the voice didn't match what you were seeing, or the background music was so loud that you couldn't hear the important stuff?

A great explainer video gets the balance just right between what you see and what you hear. They should work together smoothly. The visuals should go hand in hand with the narration, making it easy for the viewer to follow. It's a bit like pairing the right wine with a meal; when it's done well, it makes everything better.

Getting the Length Just Right

You might think longer videos are better because you have more time to explain things, right?

Well, not really.

The ideal length is usually around 60 to 90 seconds. It's enough time to share the important stuff but short enough to keep people interested.

Think of it like your quick elevator pitch; you only have a moment to impress, so every second counts. Remember that goldfish-like attention span we talked about earlier? It's real, and that's why shorter is often better in explainer videos.

What Type of Explainer Video Should You Make?

Animated Explainers

Have you ever tried to explain something really complicated, and people just got confused? Animated explainer videos are like superheroes for making complex stuff easy to understand. Imagine turning your tricky software or finance ideas into fun animations. It's like using pictures to show what you mean.

In the busy business world, being a little creative and colorful can help you stand out and get noticed by your audience.

Live Action

Think about it like this: sometimes it's nice to see real people when you're making important business choices. Live-action explainer videos are like a virtual handshake before sealing a big deal. They say, "We're real people, and we've got real solutions for you!" These videos can show how your product works or share a happy story from a happy customer – it's all about being genuine.

Plus, when it comes to showing up in online searches (that's SEO), being real and genuine is super valuable.

Whiteboard Animation

Think back to those meetings where someone grabbed a whiteboard, and things just made sense as they drew and explained. Whiteboard videos are like that clarity on a screen. They cut through the jargon and make your business solutions easy to understand. These videos don't just teach – they also rank well because search engines appreciate content that gives clear answers and helps people.

Mixed Media

Imagine your explainer video as a master chef's creation, combining various ingredients to make a delightful dish. Mixed media videos are like that chef, blending animation and live footage for a rich and engaging storytelling experience. These videos are not only eye-catching but also SEO-friendly when you use the right keywords and descriptions.

Choosing the right explainer video style isn't just about looks or trends; it's about meeting your business needs, staying true to your brand, and creating content that both connects with your audience and ranks well. In the digital world, content is crucial, but knowing where and how to use it makes all the difference.

How Do I Create an Explainer Video?

Define Your Purpose

Start by asking a simple question: "What's the point of this video?" In business, everything should connect to your goals. Whether it's making a complicated product easier to understand, introducing a new service, or getting your brand noticed online, you need a clear purpose.

Script It Out

After you've figured out why you're making the video, let's talk about how to do it. Creating a script is like building the base of a tall building. It has to be strong and well-planned. But remember, this isn't a dry business document – it's a story. Make it interesting. Include relatable situations or a bit of humor. When your content feels human and relatable, it's more appealing, and that's great for SEO.

Design & Animation

Now that you have your script ready, it's time to get visual. Whether you're using cute animations, professional live-action shots, or a combination of both, this is where your business idea really shines. While how it looks is important, consider the user's experience too. A video that loads fast not only gives viewers a better time but also impresses search engines for SEO.

Voiceover & Sound

Have you ever had a catchy jingle or voiceover stuck in your head? That's the magic of sound. Pick a voice that matches your brand's personality. If you're using background music, ensure it enhances your message, not overwhelms it.

Launch & Optimize

Now that you've made your fantastic video, it's time to show it off to the world. But here's the deal.

you want people to find it easily.

So, add tags that describe your video well, create an interesting description, and make sure the platform you use is user-friendly. After all, why make a great video if no one can see it?

Creating an explainer video may sound like a big task, but with the right plan, a dash of creativity, and a focus on making it easy for folks to discover, it can be one of your smartest business moves. In a world where everyone's attention is all over the place, a well-made video can be like a friendly signpost, leading people to your brand.

Meet Vimi: Crafting Stories Beyond the Lens

Where Creativity Meets Strategy

Located in the heart of Melbourne's busy business district, Vimi isn't just a video production company; we're also skilled storytellers. Every business has its own unique story, a special vibe, and rhythm. At Vimi, we don't just capture these details; we make them shine. In today's digital world, where there's a lot of noise, we believe that genuine storytelling, combined with smart business knowledge, can cut through the clutter. Forget about SEO for a moment, think about having a video that truly connects with your audience, leaving a lasting impression. That's what Vimi delivers.

Melbourne's Video Expert for Business

Vimi was founded with a mission to change the way businesses tell their stories. Our approach is all about understanding and empathy, backed by smart thinking. We listen carefully before we start working. We research thoroughly before we start planning. Every frame and every edit is purposeful, meant to reflect your business values. While SEO is important, at Vimi, we add a touch of heart to it. Because while algorithms may change, emotions stay constant. And that's where we excel, every single time.

Choosing Vimi means choosing to enhance your brand. It's about teaming up with professionals who value your story just as much as you do and who have the skills to convey it effectively. So, if you're looking for a video narrative that's not only SEO-friendly but also deeply touching, you know where to find us.

Frequently Asked Question

1. What exactly is an explainer video?

Answer:

An explainer video is a short and engaging digital video that simplifies complex ideas. It's like having a friendly spokesperson for your brand, quickly and clearly explaining things. These videos often use animation and are used to introduce a company's products or services, making it easy for potential customers to understand why they're valuable.

2. How long should an ideal explainer video be?

Answer:

The ideal length for explainer videos is typically between 60 to 90 seconds. It's a duration that's long enough to deliver important messages and short enough to keep viewers interested. In our fast-paced digital age, being brief and engaging is crucial!

3. Can explainer videos improve my website's SEO?

Answer:

Absolutely! Explainer videos have the potential to greatly increase on-site engagement, encouraging visitors to stay on your website longer. Search engines see this as a sign that your site provides valuable content, which can improve your search rankings. Plus, videos are easily shareable, expanding your online presence and reaching a wider audience organically.

4. What are the core elements of a successful explainer video?

Answer:

A top-notch explainer video includes a captivating story, clear message, high-quality visuals, professional voice-over, and a compelling call-to-action. When these elements work together, you get a video that engages viewers and motivates them to take action.

5. Animated vs. Live-action explainer videos: Which is better?

Answer:

Animated videos are flexible and can make complex ideas easy to understand. Live-action videos, on the other hand, can add a personal touch and work well for testimonials or product demonstrations. The choice depends on what your brand wants to say and who you're trying to reach.

6. How does Vimi ensure a video aligns with my brand?

Answer:

At Vimi, we begin by getting to know your brand thoroughly. We start with a detailed consultation to make sure each video we create not only tells a story but also captures your brand's identity, tone, and goals.

7. How long does it take to make an explainer video with Vimi?

Answer:

Turnaround times vary based on complexity, length, and style. However, at Vimi, we’re committed to delivering premium quality within efficient timelines. Typically, a standard explainer video might take a few weeks from conceptualization to final edits.

8. Can I share my explainer video on social platforms?

Answer:

Of course! Think of explainer videos as versatile tools for the online world. You can use them on social media, your website, or wherever you want to connect with people online. Videos often get more likes and comments, so they're a smart way to get noticed and engage with your audience.

9. How cost-effective is it to produce an explainer video?

Answer:

When you're thinking about how much an explainer video costs, it depends on how long and fancy you want it to be. But here's the deal: they often end up being worth the money you spend on them. They can replace lots of text, keep people interested, and even make them want to buy your stuff or use your service. So, for businesses, they're usually a smart way to spend your cash.

10. Why should I choose Vimi for my explainer video needs?

Answer:

Choosing Vimi means you're choosing quality and smart storytelling. We're not just video makers; we're experts at bringing your brand's story to life. We have a proven track record of creating videos that connect with your audience while also making sure they work well with search engines.

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