Explainer Videos: How They Take Your Business to the Next Level

Intro

Explainer videos are among the most effective tools in digital marketing today. They make complex content easy to understand, captivate viewers visually, and measurably increase sales. According to the 2024 Video Marketing Report by Wyzowl, 91% of companies now use videos as a central communication element.

This article explains how explainer videos are structured, where they can be used, and how a professional explainer video is created—with practical examples and real-world insights.

What Is an Explainer Video?

An explainer video is a short film (60–120 seconds) that clearly and concisely conveys products, services, or processes. It combines visual elements, sound, text, and narration. The goal is to deliver information quickly and in an emotionally engaging way.

Why Explainer Videos Are Essential Today

1. Capture Attention in Seconds According to Microsoft, the average online attention span is only 8 seconds. A well-produced explainer video grabs attention instantly—through motion, colors, music, and storytelling.

2. Make Complex Content Easy to Understand A typical example: A SaaS company developed a new project management app. Instead of a PDF brochure, they created an animated video explaining the key features in 90 seconds. The result: trial sign-ups increased by 43% within three weeks.

3. Build Trust Through Visual Authenticity People trust visuals more than plain text. Combined with a professional voiceover and friendly animation, an explainer video feels authentic and persuasive—especially for complex products.

Where Explainer Videos Are Used

Explainer videos are highly versatile:

• Product Presentations

Especially in e-commerce, short product videos help clearly explain features and benefits.

• Company Introductions

An animated intro video summarizes vision, values, and services in under two minutes—ideal for startups and service providers.

• Internal Communication & Onboarding

Large companies use videos to quickly familiarize new employees with processes and tools.

• Customer Support & Tutorials

Technical procedures or frequently asked questions are ideal for visual step-by-step guides.

Key Explainer Video Formats at a Glance

1. 2D Animation

The classic style. Flexible and cost-efficient. Suitable for products, services, or abstract concepts.

2. Whiteboard Style

Hand-drawn illustrations on a white background—minimalistic but highly engaging. Popular for educational content.

3. Live Action

Real-life scenes with actual people—e.g., customer testimonials or company portraits.

4. Screencast

Ideal for software, apps, and digital tools. The screen is recorded and explained step by step.

How a Professional Explainer Video Is Made

1. Define Goals & Target Audience

Start with: What should the video achieve? And: Who is the audience? These foundations shape the storytelling and design.

2. Develop Script and Storyboard

The script is the core—it simplifies complex information. The storyboard then visualizes planned scenes and transitions.

3. Design & Animation

Colors, characters, backgrounds—everything is created based on the brand’s corporate identity. Then animation brings it all to life with timing, motion, and composition.

4. Voiceover & Sound Design

A professional voiceover makes the content engaging. Background music and sound effects enhance the emotional impact.

5. Distribution & Integration

The video is exported in optimized formats and used across the website, YouTube, social media, and email marketing.

Impact on Online Marketing

• SEO Boost: Pages with videos are 50 times more likely to rank on Google's first page (Forrester Research).

• Time on Page: Users spend 2–3× more time on pages with video.

• Conversions: According to HubSpot, videos on landing pages can boost conversion rates by up to 80%.

Tips for an Effective Explainer Video

• Focused on the target audience & under 90 seconds

• One core message per video

• Memorable storytelling (hero, problem, solution)

• High-quality audio & voiceover

• Clear call-to-action at the end (e.g., "Learn more now")

• Mobile-friendly—85% of viewers watch on smartphones

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Too much text in animations

• Unclear visual metaphors

• No narrative arc

• Disorganized audio or amateur voiceovers

• Inconsistent corporate design

Conclusion: Explainer Videos Make a Difference

A compelling explainer video is more than just a nice clip—it’s a strategic communication tool. Whether it's a product, brand, process, or idea: with the right story, design, and technology, you can reach your audience directly, build trust, and significantly increase your conversion rates.