What Types of Explainer Videos Work Best for Business?

Explainer videos have become an essential tool for businesses aiming to communicate their products, services, or concepts effectively. In a world where attention spans are shrinking and consumers expect quick, engaging information, explainer videos offer an opportunity to deliver messages in a concise and visually appealing manner. But with so many types of business explainer videos available, it’s important to understand which formats work best for your specific goals.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most effective types of explainer videos for businesses, offering insights into how each one can benefit your company’s marketing and communication strategy.

1. Animated Explainer Videos

Animated explainer videos are one of the most versatile and popular types used by businesses across various industries. They rely on animation to convey ideas clearly, often combining characters, icons, and motion graphics to tell a story.

• Why they work: Animation provides a high level of flexibility, making it possible to explain abstract or complex ideas in a simplified way. For instance, tech companies often use animation to explain how their software works. The visuals can be tailored to represent any situation, making them ideal for startups, SaaS businesses, and companies that need to explain processes or data-driven services.
• When to use them: Animated business explainer videos work best when your product or service is complex or intangible. They can also be used effectively for brand storytelling and product demonstrations.
• Example: Dropbox’s early success is often attributed to an animated explainer video that helped them effectively communicate their cloud-based file storage concept to users, which was relatively new at the time.

2. Live-Action Explainer Videos

Live-action explainer videos involve real people and settings, which can create a more relatable and authentic connection with the audience. These videos typically feature actors or company employees walking viewers through the product or service.

• Why they work: Live-action videos build trust by showcasing real-world scenarios and humanizing your brand. They are particularly effective for businesses that provide services, physical products, or customer success stories because they help the audience visualize real people using the product.
• When to use them: This type of business explainer video is most effective when you want to establish credibility, build a personal connection, or showcase the tangible aspects of your product or service. It’s great for product-based businesses, local services, and industries where customer testimonials play a key role in decision-making.
• Example: Dollar Shave Club made waves with a humorous live-action explainer video that introduced their subscription-based razor service. The video went viral, gaining millions of views, and drove significant brand awareness for the company.

3. Whiteboard Explainer Videos

Whiteboard explainer videos have a unique visual style where illustrations are drawn on a white background as the narrator explains the concept. These videos have a “sketched” feel, which makes them highly engaging and easy to follow.

• Why they work: Whiteboard videos are perfect for simplifying complex information. The step-by-step drawing process helps viewers understand the content gradually, making it easier for businesses to explain detailed processes, such as financial services or educational products. Their minimalist style ensures that the message remains the primary focus.
• When to use them: Whiteboard business explainer videos are excellent for B2B companies, educational platforms, or any business that needs to break down a complicated subject. They’re also great for training purposes, making them a common choice for onboarding new employees or customers.
• Example: UPS used whiteboard explainer videos to educate their audience on the logistics services they offer. The simplicity and clarity of the drawings made the video easy to understand, even when explaining detailed processes.

4. 3D Animation Explainer Videos

3D animation explainer videos are a step up from traditional animation, offering more detailed and realistic visuals. These videos are particularly effective for showcasing products from multiple angles and providing a more immersive experience for the viewer.

• Why they work: 3D animation allows businesses to create stunning visuals that can showcase products in a way that would be difficult to achieve with live-action or 2D animation. It’s especially useful for businesses that manufacture products, as it can show how the product works in intricate detail.
• When to use them: 3D animation business explainer videos are most effective when you need to showcase physical products, medical devices, or technology that benefits from detailed demonstrations. Although more expensive to produce, they offer a highly professional look and feel.
• Example: Tech companies like Apple often use 3D animations to explain the intricate details of their products, such as the internal components of a new iPhone model.

5. Typography Explainer Videos

Typography explainer videos rely on animated text to deliver the message, often paired with music or a voice-over. This type of video uses words and simple visuals to engage viewers while guiding them through the content.

• Why they work: Typography videos are straightforward and focus entirely on the messaging. They’re ideal for communicating important data, instructions, or information where clarity is key. They are also cost-effective and quick to produce compared to more elaborate video types.
• When to use them: This format works well for businesses that need to share factual information or make an announcement, such as a change in policy or a new service offering. Typography business explainer videos are often used in internal communications or email marketing campaigns.
• Example: Social media platforms like Twitter have used typography videos to explain new features, ensuring that the message remains the focus without the distraction of elaborate visuals.

6. Screencast Explainer Videos

Screencast videos record the screen as someone demonstrates how to use a product or software. These videos often include a voice-over that explains each step of the process, making them a great tool for tutorials.

• Why they work: Screencast explainer videos are excellent for businesses that need to demonstrate software, apps, or digital platforms. By showing users exactly what they will see on their screen, these videos provide a hands-on guide to using the product.
• When to use them: These videos are perfect for software companies, online platforms, or any business with a digital product. They work particularly well as onboarding or troubleshooting tools for customers.
• Example: Companies like HubSpot and Slack use screencast explainer videos to walk users through their platforms, helping them navigate the interface and understand how to make the most of the software.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right type of explainer video for your business depends on the message you want to convey, your target audience, and your budget. Whether you opt for animated, live-action, or whiteboard videos, each format has its unique strengths and can help you communicate your business’s value proposition effectively.

For businesses looking to enhance their marketing strategies, business explainer videos offer a powerful way to engage, educate, and convert customers. By understanding the different types of explainer videos available, you can select the one that best fits your business needs and goals, ensuring your message resonates with your audience in the most effective way possible.

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