What is Explainer Video?
ELI5 — The Simple Version
Imagine you're in a giant toy store, and you're surrounded by countless toys. Each toy has a bright box, but you can't see what's inside. Now, picture an explainer video as a friendly toy expert who shows you exactly how a toy works, telling you why it's fun and how it fits into your playtime, without you having to guess. Explainer videos are like that expert guide. They're short, fun videos that tell you what a product does and why you might like it, a bit like a preview for a movie but for something you can buy. They take tricky ideas and turn them into simple, fun stories with pictures, so you know exactly what you're getting. This is important because it saves you time and helps you decide quickly. When you see an explainer video on a website, it's like getting a quick, clear explanation in a busy toy store. You understand the product faster, and you're more likely to think, "Yes, this is what I want!"
Technical Deep Dive
Definition
Explainer videos are concise, engaging video clips that illustrate a product's or service's main features and benefits. They aim to simplify complex ideas and present them through an easy-to-follow storytelling format.
How It Works
- 1.Scriptwriting: Develops the core message into a brief script.
- 2.Storyboarding: Plans visuals to align with the script, mapping out the video flow.
- 3.Animation/Filming: Produces the video using animation or live-action, often including voiceovers and music.
- 4.Editing: Adds final touches for a polished, professional finish.
Key Characteristics
- Length: Typically 60-90 seconds, ensuring concise communication.
- Visual Storytelling: Utilizes engaging visuals and narratives.
- Clear Call-to-Action (CTA): Guides viewers on what to do next.
Comparison
| Feature | Explainer Video | Product Demo Video | Tutorial Video |
|------------------------|-----------------|--------------------|-----------------|
| Purpose | Explain product | Demonstrate use | Teach how-to |
| Length | 60-90 seconds | 2-5 minutes | 5+ minutes |
| Format | Storytelling | Real use case | Step-by-step |
Real-World Example
Dropbox's explainer video is famous for helping the company grow its user base by 10 million within a year. The video made cloud storage easy to understand, significantly boosting conversions.
Best Practices
- Focus on the Problem and Solution: Clearly articulate the problem the product addresses.
- Keep it Simple: Use straightforward language; avoid jargon.
- Include a CTA: Prompt viewers to take action after watching.
Common Misconceptions
- "Explainer videos must be animated": While popular, live-action videos can be just as effective.
- "Longer videos are better": Brevity is key; longer videos risk losing viewer engagement.
Related Terms
- Landing Page Optimization
- Call to Action (CTA)
- Video Marketing
- A/B Testing