The way we consume information has transformed rapidly in the last 5 years. People want information, and they want it fast - in an easy, approachable format, involving minimal effort on their part. This is one of the main reasons why there has been such an emphasis on investing in video format - whether you are a news outlet on social media, or a clothing brand showcasing your product. Video gives users everything they need to know about you and your product, it all, in a succinct, engaging format that users love.
One way businesses can offer this type of service to customers is through an animated explainer video. Any additional asset to your website that is visual and engaging is a positive thing. Regardless of whether you are starting small and are looking to develop your website, or you’re an established company wondering how to offer more- an explainer video is a solid investment to your website, company, and customers.
Including a video on your landing page can boost your conversion rate by up to 80%. (Unbounce)
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of creating an animated explainer video, how your company can benefit, and why they are important in cementing your product at the forefront of your customer's mind.
Animated explainer videos can be far less expensive than other video formats. This is because, with live action video, there are far more aspects and additions needed to budget for. These include recording equipment, a camera crew, a set or recording space, and additional actors, props or editing time depending on the type of live action video you are trying to create. Animation removes the need for any of these, as it can all be done digitally by an animator, animation company or team. Last minute changes, edits or visual effects are also far easier to implement with animation. There’s no need for re-shoots, as it can all be done in the studio.
Humans are visual learners. It has been proven that we are far more likely to remember information and retain it, if we listen and visualise the information, rather than just reading alone. When it comes to complex concepts, in particular, an explainer video can be used to great effect, as you can animate the product being used, simplifying the steps or concept with cheerful relatable illustrations. Even the most complicated concepts can be simplified, through helpful visuals and a narrator explaining alongside. It is said that consumers are far more likely to retain information in video format, as opposed to reading copy.
Youtube user Kurzgesagt is a perfect example of an animator approaching explainer videos the right way. The Youtube account has built up a following of 14 million subscribers, with their easy to follow, brightly coloured animations capturing the interest of a wide, international audience.
Video marketing has become increasingly important over the years, and in terms of SEO, or search engine optimisation, video content is now considered an important ranking factor for search engines. If you’re providing a piece of interactive content that users engage with, that answers the need of user intent in a way the consumer responds to, search engines are going to notice and reward this. The more shares, interactions and greater visibility your video gets, the more likely you will see your website performing well and bringing in more traffic.
A big draw of animated explainer videos is their format - short, neat and clever videos, that succinctly sum up a product or service. Attention spans are getting shorter, and consumers don’t want to face long, drawn out videos that take up more of their precious time than necessary. The beauty of an animated explainer video is that they are deliberately short and sweet. The videos go into enough detail to explain the concept, usually with a narrator on board to help assist with the visuals. This means the concept can be articulated and simplified, to give the audience all the necessary information, without getting into too much detail. This makes them the perfect feature to include on a homepage, for existing or potential customers to get an idea of what you’re about, and what you can offer, without them losing interest or going elsewhere.
Another great thing about animated explainer videos is that they are easy to tweak! Creative touches can be added without a huge additional expense, as most of the hard work is already done. Should an element of your campaign change, or you need to rethink your marketing strategy, you can go back to the drawing board with your animation so it reflects your brand in the right way.
Another reason why businesses are investing in animated explainer videos is because they can evoke a sense of trust between the company and the consumer. This is because the consumer sees that your website has considered their needs, and collated everything they want to know in a handy video. A well produced, high quality animated video demonstrates to the consumer that you’ve invested time and effort into helping them understand your product, and what it can offer them. If your product was particularly competitive, and a potential customer was visiting a number of sites, they’re far more likely to interact and engage with a website that offers cheerful video content, forming an emotional connection that will be stronger than copy alone.
Another great positive of animated explainer videos Is that short video content is easy to share on social media, and therefore more likely to bring in engagement with your social media platforms or website. It’s easier to get people talking about your brand or product if you have a handy, engaging video that you can promote to shout about it. Explainer videos are great for social media channels, where video content is king. Another positive is that videos are great for mobile, with users far more likely to have interest in this kind of succinct, engaging content on their phones.
Animated explainer videos are also popular because they allow for more scope and creativity. You have complete freedom with the brand story, and there are no extra expenses, as it is all created digitally. This means there are no restrictions when it comes to reflecting your brand, your brand message, and what you’re about. It’s for this reason that so many brands have cottoned on, and focused purely on this style of explainer video alone. With the animations themselves branded up and created to your liking exactly, you can be sure your brand message, ethos and story aren’t lost in translation, but are brought across within seconds of the user arriving at your website.
If you want to find out more about how an animated explainer video could work for your business, get in touch with one of our expert team today.
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