Unveiling How Long it Takes to Make an Explainer Video

Have you ever wondered how long it takes to make an explainer video? In this article, we will reveal the average production time and the factors that influence it.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating an explainer video can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
• Template-based videos can be made and finalized in a couple of days, but they may not be as effective in the long run.
• Custom videos require more time as each element is created from scratch, typically taking around 4 to 8 weeks.
• The ideal length for an explainer video is generally between 60 and 90 seconds.
• The length of each stage of the video, such as problem identification, solution/value proposition, how it works/benefits, and call to action, should be considered.

Factors Affecting the Production Time

The duration of explainer video creation can vary depending on several factors that influence the production time. Let’s delve into these factors and understand how they impact the overall timeline.

One crucial factor is whether the video is template-based or custom. Template-based videos are pre-designed and can be quickly edited to fit the client’s needs. These videos can be completed in just a couple of days, making them a cost-effective and time-saving option. However, they may lack personalization and may not effectively convey the unique message and branding of a business.

On the other hand, custom videos are tailored specifically to a client’s requirements. Each element, from the script to the illustrations, is created from scratch, ensuring a truly unique and impactful video. However, this level of customization requires more time and effort. The production process includes research and content development, scriptwriting, storyboarding and illustrations, voiceover recording, and animations. Incorporating client feedback throughout these stages is essential, adding to the overall timeline of the video production.

Template-based Videos	Custom Videos
Short production time	Longer production time
Lower cost	Higher cost
Limited personalization	Full customization

Overall, a custom explainer video can take around 4 to 8 weeks to complete. This timeframe accounts for the various stages of production and the iterative process of incorporating client feedback. It is important to keep in mind that the ideal length for an explainer video is generally between 60 and 90 seconds. This duration allows for conveying the necessary information while keeping viewers engaged. Additionally, aligning the length of each stage of the video, such as introducing the problem, presenting the solution/value proposition, explaining how it works/benefits, and including a call to action, contributes to creating a cohesive and compelling video.

By understanding these factors and considering the desired outcome, businesses can make informed decisions about the duration and approach for their explainer video production, ensuring a final product that effectively communicates their message and engages their target audience.

Template-based Videos vs. Custom Videos

When it comes to creating explainer videos, businesses can choose between template-based videos or custom videos. Let’s examine the differences between these two options and understand their implications on the production time.

Template-based videos offer a quicker turnaround time as they utilize pre-designed templates that can be customized with a business’s branding and content. These templates already have predefined animations, transitions, and visual elements, making the production process more streamlined. While they are cost-effective and can be produced in just a couple of days, template-based videos may lack originality and fail to fully capture a brand’s unique identity and message.

On the other hand, custom videos require more time and effort as each element is created from scratch. The process typically involves extensive research and content development to understand the target audience and create a tailored message. Scriptwriting, storyboarding, illustrations, voiceover recording, animations, and client feedback also contribute to the overall production time. However, the advantage of custom videos lies in their ability to deliver a more personalized and impactful message that resonates with viewers on a deeper level.

Template-based Videos vs. Custom Videos Comparison

	Template-based Videos	Custom Videos
Production Time	Short duration, typically a few days	Longer timeframe, generally 4 to 8 weeks
Customization and Originality	Limited customization, lack of originality	Complete customization, unique and tailored to the brand
Effectiveness	May not effectively communicate a brand’s unique message	Delivers a more personalized and impactful message

Overall, the choice between template-based videos and custom videos depends on a business’s specific needs and goals. If time is of the essence and budget is limited, template-based videos can be a viable option. However, for those seeking a more personalized and effective video that truly reflects their brand identity, custom videos are the way to go, despite the longer production time.

Timeline for Template-based Videos

If you opt for a template-based video, the production timeline follows a specific sequence of steps. Let’s take a closer look at the timeline for making a template-based explainer video.

The first stage in creating a template-based video is selecting a pre-designed template that suits your business needs. This step can be completed within a day, as there are numerous templates available online to choose from. Once you have selected a template, you can move on to the next stage.

The second stage involves customizing the template to fit your brand and message. This includes adding your own content, such as text, images, and logo, to the template. Depending on the complexity of the customization required, this stage can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.

After customizing the template, you will move on to the final stage, which is refining and finalizing the video. This involves reviewing and editing the video to ensure it aligns with your desired message, as well as adding any necessary transitions or effects. The duration of this stage will depend on the complexity of the edits and the availability of feedback from stakeholders.

Stage	Timeframe
Template Selection	1 day
Customization	Up to a few days
Refinement and Finalization	Varies based on feedback and edits

Overall, the timeline for creating a template-based explainer video can range from a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of customization and the availability of feedback. While template-based videos offer a quicker production time, they may lack the personalization and effectiveness of custom videos. It’s important to consider your specific needs and goals when deciding which approach is right for you.

Timeline for Custom Videos

Creating a custom explainer video involves a comprehensive process that spans several stages. Let’s explore the timeline for making a custom explainer video and understand the time required for each step.

1. Research and Content Development: This initial stage is crucial for understanding the client’s business, target audience, and goals. It involves conducting market research, gathering information, and developing a strong content strategy. This stage usually takes about 1-2 weeks, depending on the complexity of the project.

2. Scriptwriting and Storyboarding: Once the content strategy is in place, the next step is to create a compelling script that effectively communicates the message. This involves crafting a clear narrative, defining visuals, and planning the overall flow of the video. The scriptwriting and storyboarding process typically takes around 1-2 weeks, allowing for revisions and client feedback.

Stage	Estimated Time
Research and Content Development	1-2 weeks
Scriptwriting and Storyboarding	1-2 weeks
Illustrations and Animations	2-4 weeks
Voiceover Recording	1-2 weeks
Client Feedback and Revisions	1-2 weeks

3. Illustrations and Animations: This stage involves bringing the script and storyboard to life through visually appealing illustrations and animations. It requires skilled designers and animators to create custom graphics and engage viewers. Depending on the complexity of the video, this stage can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks.

4. Voiceover Recording: A professional voiceover is essential for adding a human touch to the video. The voiceover artist will bring the script to life, conveying the message with clarity and emotion. This stage usually takes about 1-2 weeks, including the selection of the right voiceover talent, recording, and revisions if necessary.

5. Client Feedback and Revisions: Throughout the entire process, client feedback is crucial for ensuring the video meets their expectations. This stage allows for revisions based on client input, ensuring the final product aligns with their brand and goals. Incorporating client feedback typically takes about 1-2 weeks, depending on the number of revisions required.

By following a well-defined timeline and allowing for client collaboration, a custom explainer video can be created within 4 to 8 weeks. However, it’s important to note that the timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the availability of client feedback, and any unforeseen challenges that may arise. Remember, the goal is to create a video that effectively communicates the message, engages the audience, and drives desired results.

Ideal Video Length and Content

When creating an explainer video, it’s crucial to strike a balance between an optimal video length and engaging content. Let’s explore the ideal video length and the length of each stage within the video.

The ideal length for an explainer video is generally between 60 and 90 seconds. This duration allows the video to capture the attention of viewers while delivering the key message effectively. However, the length can vary depending on the purpose of the video and the target audience. For complex topics or a more detailed explanation, a slightly longer video may be appropriate. On the other hand, for a quick introduction or overview, a shorter video can be just as effective.

Length of each stage of the video:

1. Problem Identification: This stage should be concise and focused on highlighting the pain points or challenges faced by the target audience. Keeping this section within 20-30 seconds allows for a clear and compelling introduction to the problem.

2. Solution/Value Proposition: After identifying the problem, this stage should present the solution or value proposition offered by the product or service. Taking approximately 20-30 seconds, this section should emphasize the benefits and unique selling points of the solution.

3. How it Works/Benefits: This stage provides a walkthrough of how the product or service works and the specific benefits it offers. It is important to keep this section concise and engaging, lasting for about 20-30 seconds to maintain viewer interest.

4. Call to Action: The final stage of the video should include a clear call to action, prompting viewers to take the desired next step, such as visiting a website or making a purchase. This section should be brief and to the point, lasting around 10-15 seconds.

Stage	Length
Problem Identification	20-30 seconds
Solution/Value Proposition	20-30 seconds
How it Works/Benefits	20-30 seconds
Call to Action	10-15 seconds

By following these guidelines, you can create an explainer video that effectively communicates your message within an ideal video length while keeping viewers engaged. Remember, a well-crafted video that captures attention and delivers the key information will have a greater impact on your target audience.

Importance of Client Feedback

Client feedback plays a vital role in the production of an explainer video, enabling iterative improvements and customization to meet their unique needs. By actively involving clients in the creative process, it ensures that the final product aligns with their vision and objectives. Throughout each stage of production, from scriptwriting to animations, client feedback serves as a compass, guiding the team to make necessary adjustments and enhancements.

One of the key benefits of client feedback is its ability to drive iteration. By receiving input from the client, the production team can revise and refine the video to better address the desired message and target audience. It allows for continuous improvement and ensures that the video accurately represents the client’s brand and values. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and satisfaction for both parties, resulting in a final product that exceeds expectations.

Moreover, client feedback enables customization. Every business has its own unique story, objectives, and audience. With timely feedback from the client, the team can tailor the video to meet these specific requirements. Whether it’s adjusting the tone, pacing, or visual elements, incorporating client input leads to a more personalized and impactful explainer video.

Benefits of Client Feedback
Fosters collaboration: Engages clients in the creative process, fostering a sense of ownership and partnership.
Drives iteration: Allows for continuous improvement and refinement of the video to better align with the desired message and target audience.
Enables customization: Tailors the video to meet the unique requirements and branding of the client’s business.

In conclusion, client feedback is an invaluable component of explainer video production. It not only drives iterative improvements and customization but also ensures that the final product accurately represents the client’s brand and resonates with their audience. By actively involving clients throughout the process, the production team can create a video that exceeds expectations and achieves the desired objectives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the timeline for creating an explainer video can vary depending on the type of video and the level of customization required. However, on average, it takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete an explainer video.

Template-based videos offer a quicker turnaround time, with the ability to be produced and finalized in just a couple of days. However, these videos may lack the personalized touch needed to effectively represent a specific business or brand.

Custom videos, on the other hand, require more time and effort, as each element is created from scratch. This process involves thorough research, scriptwriting, storyboarding and illustrations, voiceover recording, animations, and client feedback. As a result, a custom explainer video typically takes around 4 to 8 weeks to complete.

When determining the ideal length for an explainer video, it is generally recommended to keep it between 60 and 90 seconds. This ensures that all the necessary information is conveyed while keeping viewers engaged. Additionally, it is important to consider the length of each stage of the video, such as addressing the problem, presenting the solution or value proposition, explaining how it works and the benefits, and concluding with a call to action.

Overall, the goal of an explainer video is to create a visually appealing and engaging piece of content that effectively communicates the desired message. While the production time may vary, the end result should be a high-quality video that captivates the audience and achieves its intended purpose.