The 12 Best Types of Explainer Video Production with Examples

What Types of Videos Enhance Audience Understanding of a Product or Service and Facilitate Their Journey Through the Marketing Funnel?

When it comes to effectively guiding potential customers through the marketing funnel, explainer videos stand out as a powerful tool. These videos, typically ranging from 60 to 180 seconds in length, are designed to be short and captivating, offering a clear and concise explanation of a product or service. Their engaging nature and conversational tone make them particularly popular in marketing campaigns, as they not only capture attention but also help convey complex information in a digestible format.

Understanding the Role of Explainer Videos:

Explainer videos play a crucial role in presenting core information to the audience. They combine compelling visuals with informative content to create an engaging experience that keeps viewers interested. These videos effectively introduce products and services, highlighting their functionalities, offering overviews, and simplifying user interfaces. By breaking down intricate details into easily understandable segments, explainer videos ensure that viewers can grasp the key benefits and features without feeling overwhelmed.

According to research by HubSpot, a remarkable 96% of consumers watch explainer videos to learn more about a product. This statistic underscores the importance of incorporating such videos into your marketing strategy. The visual and auditory elements of explainer videos create an immersive experience that resonates with viewers, making it easier for them to retain information and recall it later.

Key Considerations Before Creating an Explainer Video:

Before diving into the production of an explainer video tailored to your marketing needs, it’s essential to ask yourself a few crucial questions:

1. What Type of Explainer Videos Are Best for Explaining Software Functionalities and Capabilities?
   Different types of explainer videos serve various purposes. For software products, animated or live-action explainer videos that demonstrate real-time functionality can be particularly effective. Consider whether you want to focus on screen recordings, animated infographics, or testimonials to convey your message.
2. What Kind of Various Business Processes Can Explainer Videos Be Used In?
   Explainer videos can be utilized across numerous business processes, including onboarding new employees, showcasing customer testimonials, or providing product demos. Identifying the specific processes within your organization that can benefit from explainer videos will help you tailor your content for maximum impact.
3. How Can Explainer Videos Help Reduce the Number of Support Calls?
   By addressing common questions and concerns within the explainer video, you can significantly decrease the volume of support calls your team receives. An informative video can empower customers with the knowledge they need to navigate your product or service, ultimately enhancing their overall experience.

Why Explainer Videos are Effective?

Benefits of Explainer Videos:

Explainer videos provide a multitude of advantages, making them highly effective tools for conveying information and engaging audiences. Here are some key benefits:

• Clarity Over Text: They present information in a more digestible format than text, making it easier for viewers to grasp key concepts.
• Simplicity in Complexity: Explainer videos simplify intricate information, delivering clear explanations in a concise time frame.
• Narrative Techniques: By employing storytelling techniques, these videos forge a connection with viewers, enhancing emotional engagement.
• SEO Benefits: They contribute positively to search engine optimization (SEO), boosting reach, driving traffic, and increasing the amount of time users spend on your site.
• Mobile-Friendly Customization: Explainer videos can be easily tailored for mobile marketing, ensuring accessibility across various devices.
• Brand Personality: They effectively communicate the brand’s culture and personality, fostering a deeper connection with the audience.
• Product Understanding: Explainer videos detail the functionalities, capabilities, and benefits of a product, helping potential customers make informed decisions.
• Brand Awareness: They serve as an effective introduction to the brand, enhancing recognition and awareness among the target audience.
• Ongoing Engagement: These videos cater to both new and existing customers, promoting continued engagement with the brand.
• Reduced Support Calls: By providing clear instructions and addressing common questions about the product or service, explainer videos can significantly decrease the volume of support calls.
• Visual Appeal: The combination of visuals, animations, and audio creates an engaging experience that captures and retains the audience’s attention.
• Increased Conversion Rates: By clearly showcasing product benefits, explainer videos can lead to higher conversion rates, turning potential customers into loyal buyers.
• Versatility Across Platforms: They can be shared across multiple platforms, from social media to websites, maximizing exposure and engagement opportunities.

12 Types of Explainer Videos:

Explainer videos are concise and engaging visual content designed to simplify complex concepts and promote products or services. With various types including animated, live-action, whiteboard, and more each format employs unique storytelling techniques to captivate audiences and enhance understanding. Whether for marketing, training, or tutorials, explainer videos serve as a powerful tool for effective communication.

1. Whiteboard Explainer Video:

Whiteboard explainer videos utilize the innovative “scribe-ology method” to create visually engaging narratives through hand-drawn animation. This technique combines compelling illustrations with dynamic storytelling, making messages not only attractive but also memorable. By employing a simple yet effective visual style, these videos capture viewers’ attention and keep them engaged throughout the presentation.

Use: Whiteboard explainer videos are particularly well-suited for a variety of applications. They excel in simplifying complex concepts that may be difficult for audiences to grasp at first glance. Whether you’re introducing a new product, explaining intricate processes, or providing step-by-step guides, these videos break down information into digestible parts. This format is ideal for educational content, product demonstrations, and training materials, making it easier for viewers to follow along and retain key information.

Benefits: The primary advantage of whiteboard explainer videos is their ability to clarify complicated subjects. By transforming dense information into engaging visuals, they foster a better understanding of challenging concepts. This approach not only enhances comprehension but also encourages viewer engagement, making it more likely that audiences will remember the material presented.

2. Motion graphics Explainer Video:

This video employs motion graphics and seamless transitions to illustrate concepts such as subscriber acquisition, personalized communications, and automated invoicing. By integrating dynamic visuals and fluid movement, the content becomes more engaging, making it easier for viewers to grasp complex ideas and processes.

Use: Motion graphics videos are particularly effective for presenting statistics, charts, data-driven insights, and trends. Their ability to visualize numerical data enhances comprehension, allowing audiences to quickly absorb and interpret the information being conveyed.

Benefits: One of the key advantages of these videos is their visual appeal, which plays a crucial role in capturing and maintaining viewers’ attention. The combination of striking graphics and smooth animations not only makes the content more enjoyable to watch but also encourages deeper engagement. This heightened interest can lead to better retention of the information, making motion graphics an excellent tool for effective communication.

3. 2D Animation Explainer Video:

These explainer videos utilize 2D animations and engaging characters to demonstrate how to order food and track deliveries through a mobile application. By employing a narrative-driven approach, these videos effectively illustrate the user experience, making it easy for viewers to understand the process.

Use: 2D explainer videos are designed with a story or character-centric focus, which helps in explaining a product or service in an entertaining and relatable manner. This storytelling technique not only captures attention but also builds a connection with the audience, making the content more memorable.

Benefits: One of the significant advantages of 2D explainer videos is their versatility. They can be adapted to various contexts and industries, enhancing brand recognition and ensuring that businesses effectively communicate their specific messages. By combining appealing visuals with clear storytelling, these videos facilitate better audience engagement and promote a deeper understanding of the brand and its offerings.

4. 3D Animation Explainer Video:

This video employs 3D animations and visual storytelling techniques to illustrate how the product simplifies the SEO workflow for businesses. Through captivating visuals and dynamic animations, the video effectively conveys complex information in a way that is easy to understand and engaging.

Use: 3D explainer videos are particularly well-suited for showcasing intricate workflows and presenting products or services in an appealing format. Their ability to depict multi-dimensional concepts allows viewers to grasp the functionality and benefits of a product or service more intuitively.

Benefits: One of the standout advantages of these videos is their ability to deliver immersive storytelling experiences. The combination of cutting-edge visuals and compelling narratives not only makes the content visually striking but also enhances viewer engagement. This futuristic approach ensures that audiences are not only informed but also captivated, making the overall presentation more impactful.

5. Live-action Explainer Video:

This video features actors and a compelling storyline that illustrates how HubSpot’s CRM can be utilized to analyze client history, manage pending tasks, forecast sales, and more. By incorporating a narrative-driven approach, the video effectively demonstrates the practical applications of CRM while engaging viewers in a relatable context.

Use: This format is particularly effective for showcasing emotions and human elements, as it employs relatable stories that involve real people, realistic settings, and everyday objects to explain products and services. This storytelling technique helps audiences connect with the content on a personal level, making the information more accessible and engaging.

Benefits: One of the key advantages of using actors and narratives in explainer videos is their relatability and memorability. By enhancing authenticity and fostering an emotional connection with viewers, these videos create a lasting impression, making it easier for audiences to recall the information presented. This emotional engagement not only enhances understanding but also encourages viewers to take action.

6. Typography Explainer Video:

This video employs contrasting colors, dynamic shapes, recognizable logos, and bold text to convey how Apple aims to achieve carbon neutrality across all its products by 2030. By utilizing striking visual elements, the video effectively captures the essence of the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Use: This style of explainer video is particularly effective for introducing a brand and communicating its core values and culture. The vibrant visuals and clear messaging help to establish a strong brand identity, making it easier for audiences to connect with the company’s mission and vision.

Benefits: One of the primary advantages of this approach is its ability to grab the attention of potential customers with impactful words and clear, bold statements. The combination of compelling visuals and straightforward facts not only engages viewers but also reinforces the brand’s message, making it memorable and persuasive.

7. Cut-out Style Explainer Video:

This video employs cut-out images and engaging graphics to clearly explain key product features, such as automated recording, personalized feedback, and seamless integration, all aimed at enhancing the hiring process.

Usage: These types of explainer videos effectively create a narrative that highlights the essential features and functionalities of the product or service. By telling a compelling story, they help viewers understand how the product addresses specific needs and improves overall efficiency.

Benefits: With their unique visual appeal, these videos are particularly well-suited for businesses seeking to differentiate themselves through a distinct and creative style. This innovative approach not only captures the audience’s attention but also leaves a lasting impression, enhancing brand recognition and engagement.

8. Stock Footage Explainer Video:

This video incorporates stock footage, bold typography, and the product’s user interface to effectively demonstrate key features such as booking classes, reserving tables, checking menus, and securely storing cards for seamless payments.

Usage: This type of explainer video is commonly used to narrate the story behind a product or service while illustrating its practical applications. By providing clear examples of how the product can be utilized, these videos enhance user understanding and engagement.

Benefits: One of the major advantages of this format is its ability to easily integrate with motion graphics, which can enhance visual appeal and reinforce key messages. Additionally, these videos are cost-effective, making them an attractive option for businesses looking to create high-quality content without a significant investment.

9. Stop-motion Explainer Video:

This video employs stop-motion techniques along with minimalist backgrounds to effectively demonstrate how businesses can streamline their invoicing processes. Utilizing cutouts of simple drawings, it creatively illustrates the steps involved in invoicing, making the information accessible and engaging.

Usage: This style of video is ideal for creatively explaining a product or service while enhancing brand recognition. The combination of visual storytelling and animation captures the viewer’s attention, ensuring that key concepts are conveyed clearly and enjoyably.

Benefits: These videos are distinguished by their unique artistic style, which sets them apart from traditional marketing content. Their distinctive approach not only makes them memorable but also helps reinforce the brand’s identity in the minds of viewers, encouraging them to associate positive experiences with the brand.

10. Screencast Explainer Video:

This video showcases Notion’s user interface, providing a comprehensive overview of how users can leverage the platform for organizing tasks, managing projects, and creating to-do lists, all within a single, streamlined environment.

Usage: Such videos are particularly effective for producing tutorials and how-to guides related to the product or service. They are invaluable for explaining the user interface, demonstrating various functionalities, and communicating important software updates and upgrades to users clearly and engagingly.

Benefits: By visually illustrating the software’s features, these videos effectively convey its functionalities and capabilities. They help users understand how to maximize the platform’s potential, ensuring they can fully utilize the tools available to them for enhanced productivity and organization.

11. Infographic Explainer Video:

This video effectively utilizes a combination of infographics, icons, arrows, and bold typography to convey how the product can be employed for precise targeting and customer acquisition. By integrating these visual elements, the video enhances viewer comprehension and engagement.

Usage: Infographics play a crucial role in simplifying complex data or research findings. They achieve this by leveraging various tools such as charts, maps, icons, and graphics to present information in a visually appealing and easily digestible format. This approach not only aids in breaking down intricate concepts but also ensures that the audience can grasp the essential points quickly and efficiently.

Benefits: The use of such visual aids is particularly effective for presenting data-driven content. They help communicate insights in a way that is not only informative but also engaging, making it easier for the audience to retain the information. By transforming raw data into compelling visuals, this method significantly enhances the overall impact of the message, leading to better understanding and retention among viewers.

12. Mobile App Explainer Video:

Mobile app explainer videos focus on showcasing the app’s user interface (UI) while incorporating stock footage in the background. These videos effectively illustrate the app’s functionalities, such as reservation management and providing 24/7 customer support, making it clear how users can benefit from its features.

Use: This type of explainer video is particularly useful for demonstrating the app’s user interface. Additionally, it provides step-by-step instructions on how to perform specific tasks within the app, enhancing the user experience and facilitating navigation.

Benefits: By presenting the software’s features clearly and engagingly, these videos significantly improve users’ understanding of how to utilize the app effectively. This clarity not only encourages users to engage more fully with the application but also enhances overall satisfaction.

Brands employ various types of explainer videos to engage their audiences and convey information efficiently. Each video style caters to different communication styles and audience preferences. When selecting the best style for your business, consider the following steps:

1. Identify the types of explainer videos your target audience prefers to watch. Understanding their viewing habits will guide your content strategy.
2. Research the video styles utilized by competitors. This analysis can provide insights into industry trends and help differentiate your content.
3. Determine the primary platform for showcasing your video and explore which styles are popular on that platform. Tailoring your video to fit the platform’s culture can enhance viewer engagement.
4. Evaluate the costs associated with explainer video production. This will help you budget effectively and choose a style that aligns with your financial resources.
5. Identify explainer video types that can effectively showcase your brand’s personality and values. This alignment will create a more authentic connection with your audience.

How to make an explainer video

Creating Your Explainer Video: A Step-by-Step Guide:

Are you ready for the journey of creating your explainer video? While it’s a challenging task that demands focus and dedication, the result is worth the effort!

Step 1: Write the Video Script

The script is the backbone of any successful explainer video. Even with top-notch graphics or a voiceover that rivals Morgan Freeman’s, none of it will resonate without a compelling script.

Why Your Script Matters:

Spend significant time creating your script. Ideally, you should write it yourself, even if you hire a production company. No one understands your target audience’s pain points and concerns better than you do. Addressing these concerns is crucial in your video. Consider these questions: What worries your potential customers? What confuses them about your product or service? If you haven’t gathered insights yet, now is the time to survey your audience.

General Outline for Your Explainer Video Script:

1. Brief Overview: Introduce your product and its purpose.
2. Identify the Problem: Clearly define the issue at hand.
3. Present Your Solution: Explain how your product or service addresses the problem.
4. Call to Action: Encourage viewers to take the next step (e.g., “Sign up for our free trial!”).
5. Establish Trust: Highlight reputable clients, awards, or media mentions.

Best Practices for Your Script:

• Keep it Concise: Aim for 90 seconds or less.
• Front-Load Key Messages: Deliver your main value proposition within the first 30 seconds.
• Use 2nd Person Language: Engage the audience with “you” and “your.”
• Simplify Your Language: Avoid jargon that may alienate viewers.
• Set the Right Tone: Most explainer videos benefit from a casual, conversational style.
• Incorporate Humor: A touch of humor can make your video more enjoyable.

Step 2: Recording the Voiceovers

With your script in hand, it’s time to record the voiceover. Consider these options:

• Voices.com: Access a large network of professional voice actors.
• Craigslist: A reliable source for finding various services, including voiceovers.
• Fiverr: Affordable options starting at $5 for voiceover services. Be prepared to pay a bit more based on quality and length.

Step 3: Explainer Video Production

When it comes to producing your explainer video, you have several paths to choose from:

• Hire Professionals: Consider working with reputable video production companies like Demo Duck, Wyzowl, or Explainly. Expect to invest between $5,000 and $20,000 for high-quality production.
• Use PowToon: If you prefer animation but lack experience, PowToon allows you to create animated videos easily and affordably, with helpful tutorials to guide you.
• DIY with Your iPhone: You can film your video using your iPhone! Wistia offers great resources for this, and editing can be done with tools like iMovie or Camtasia. For animated options, check out Salsify’s animation toolkit.
• Hire a Freelancer: Skilled freelancers can deliver high-quality work at lower costs. Explore platforms like Craigslist for potential candidates.
• Crowdsource Your Project: Platforms like Video Brewery allow you to submit your project and receive proposals from freelancers, typically ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.

Step 4: Music & Sound Effects

Your video will likely need music and sound effects to enhance its appeal. Here are some resources to consider:

• MusOpen: Free music resources including recordings and sheet music.
• Free Sound: A collection of Creative Commons licensed audio samples.
• YouTube Audio Library: Offers free background music for video projects.
• Audio Jungle: A marketplace for royalty-free audio files, including sound effects.
• Audacity: A free tool for creating and editing your audio tracks.

Always check licensing agreements to ensure compliance, and consider referring to our guide on using music in ads to avoid legal issues.

Step 5: Measure the Performance of Your Explainer Video

Once your video is live, measure its performance and be ready to make adjustments. Tools like YouTube Insight provide valuable data, and Google Analytics offers deeper insights through custom event tracking.

Imagine tracking engagement metrics like plays, pauses, and viewer retention at various time markers. Wistia also offers excellent analytic features and integration with Google Analytics for enhanced tracking capabilities.

Final Thoughts

Explainer videos serve as powerful tools for conveying a brand’s solutions while maintaining the audience’s interest. They offer significant advantages for SEO, are cost-effective, and gently encourage potential customers to make a purchase.

These videos simplify intricate concepts through engaging visual storytelling. Various types of explainer videos can be utilized for different business processes, including brand introductions, product demonstrations, employee onboarding, and training sessions.

Moreover, explainer videos are versatile and can be deployed at different stages of the marketing funnel. At the top of the funnel, they focus on building brand awareness, while in the middle, they communicate the brand’s unique value proposition. the power of explainer videos, businesses can enhance customer engagement and improve conversion rates. They not only capture attention but also provide clarity and understanding, making it easier for prospects to connect with the brand. As a result, investing in high-quality explainer videos can yield a significant return on investment, driving growth and success in today’s competitive landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

How long should a typical explainer video be?

A typical explainer video should ideally be between 60 to 120 seconds (1 to 2 minutes). This duration is sufficient to convey your message clearly without losing the viewer’s attention. Research indicates that videos shorter than 90 seconds are more likely to keep viewers engaged. However, the length may vary based on the complexity of the topic and the target audience. For more detailed topics, consider breaking the content into a series of shorter videos.

What is the cost range for producing different types of explainer videos?

The cost of producing an explainer video can vary widely depending on several factors, including the style, length, and production quality. Here’s a general breakdown:

• 2D Animation: $2,500 to $10,000
• 3D Animation: $5,000 to $20,000
• Live-Action: $3,000 to $15,000
• Whiteboard Animation: $2,000 to $8,000
• Motion Graphics: $3,000 to $10,000

Keep in mind that these are average ranges and can fluctuate based on the complexity of the project and the experience of the production team.

How do I choose the right type of explainer video for my business?

Choosing the right type of explainer video depends on several factors, including your audience, message, and budget. Here are some considerations:

• Target Audience: Identify who your viewers are and what resonates with them. For a younger audience, a fun animation might work best, while a corporate audience may prefer a professional live-action video.
• Message Complexity: If your message involves intricate concepts, 2D or 3D animation can visually simplify the information. For straightforward messages, live-action may suffice.
• Brand Identity: Ensure the chosen style aligns with your brand image. If your brand has a playful persona, animated videos may be more fitting.
• Budget: Consider your budget and the potential return on investment. Choose a style that meets your budget constraints without compromising quality.

What is the turnaround time for creating an explainer video?

The turnaround time for creating an explainer video typically ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on several factors:

• Type of Video: Animation generally takes longer than live-action due to the detailed design and production process.
• Complexity: More complex scripts and designs require additional time for research, storyboarding, and revisions.
• Production Process: A well-defined production process with clear communication can speed up the timeline. Frequent feedback can also facilitate quicker revisions.

What are common mistakes to avoid in explainer video production?

Avoiding common pitfalls in explainer video production can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overly Complicated Messaging: Keep your message simple and clear. Avoid jargon or technical language that may confuse viewers.
• Neglecting the Script: A well-written script is crucial. It should outline the problem, solution, and call to action succinctly.
• Ignoring Target Audience: Failing to consider your audience can lead to content that doesn’t resonate. Tailor your video to meet their interests and preferences.
• Poor Visual Quality: Low-quality visuals can detract from your message. Invest in professional production to maintain high standards.
• Skipping a Call to Action: Always include a clear call to action to guide viewers on what to do next after watching the video.