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What is an explainer animation?
An explainer animation, also known as an explainer, is a type of animated video that breaks down a process into clear and easy-to-follow steps. This guides the viewer through the story in an organized way, making the content understandable. There are numerous examples of explainer animations. Think of KLM’s safety instruction videos or the explainer videos from the Dutch Tax Authority. Many companies, both national and international, use them to illustrate their workflows, explain innovations, or provide customers with additional background information.
2D animation is often chosen for explainer because it offers a professional and straightforward look. A 2D style often aligns well with existing brand identities and is easy to modify or expand. This flexibility allows for the creation of a series of explainer videos over time.
And what is an 'explanimation' or 'explainer'?
Explanimation is another word for explanation animation. The word explanimation is a contraction of the English words 'explain' and 'animation'. Having an explanimation made is essentially the same as creating an explanation video or explainer video. All these different terms come down to the same thing; a short animation that explains a complex process, product, or system in a clear and understandable way. Using an explanimation is therefore a good way to give the viewer more insight and understanding.
What style is suitable for an explanatory animation?
For creating an explainer video, several styles are possible. The right style depends on factors such as the target audience, the content being conveyed, and the company’s brand identity. For instance, KLM chose a stop-motion style for their safety instructions. The most common style for explainer videos is 2D animation, a cost-effective format ideal for clearly explaining a process step by step. 3D animation is also frequently used, especially for instructional videos or to demonstrate how a product works. Another popular approach for explainers combines a presenter with motion graphics. This is known as the "NOS-op-3" style, where complex topics are explained in an engaging, approachable way.
Using interactive videos for explanatory animations
An innovative approach to explainer animations is the use of interactive video. With an interactive video, viewers are given various choices that determine the next segment of the video. The possibilities for using interactive video in explainer animations are endless. For example, a custom installation guide can be shown based on the user’s input, or control questions can be used in an e-learning module to quiz the learner. Interactive video can also divide the content naturally into steps. For implementing interactive videos, Indall utilizes its own developed platform or the platform of partner Ivory Studio.
The 4 advantages of explainer animations
Clarifying complex concepts. Provide enhanced understanding for key stakeholders, such as investors, suppliers, and (potential) customers, as well as for internal communications. This is particularly crucial for technical companies with complex technologies and processes.
Save time and money on training and onboarding. With rapid market developments, employees need to be continuously updated. Explainer videos deliver structured and consistent information, offering a more efficient approach than traditional teaching methods. Standardizing the onboarding process with explainer animations also saves time and money.
Increase sales by enhancing understanding. Technical products and services can be challenging to sell due to their complexity. Explainer animations equip the sales team with valuable tools to effectively and engagingly communicate the value proposition of these products and services to potential clients.
Digitalize manuals. Many technical products come with extensive manuals for installation and maintenance, often lengthy and complicated. Explainer videos offer a clearer, step-by-step guide, allowing the viewer to effectively understand each stage of installation. Ideal for internal use, client maintenance, or on-site installations abroad.
How much does it cost to have an explanatory animation made?
The cost of creating an explainer animation depends on various factors, such as the length and style of the explainer. Creating a simple explainer animation with motion graphics can already be realized from €3,200 excluding VAT. For a longer explainer animation in a custom style, the price starts at €5,500 excluding VAT.
The Indall team always takes ample time to work with the client to determine the exact content and translate it into a script that the viewer will understand. This is then translated into a visual storyboard, where story and image come together. This way, the client gets a clear overview of the final result and ends up with a clear and compelling explainer video upon completion. Due to the different milestones in the project and the flexibility that creating an explainer animation offers, there are numerous possibilities to create an explainer animation that aligns with the client's wishes and requirements.
Animation studio for tech
Curious about the possibilities of creating an explainer animation, or interested in having an explainer made? Indall has a team of experienced creatives with a passion for technology, innovation, and sustainability. If you’re looking for an experienced animation studio for any of the projects listed below, we’d be happy to brainstorm with you.
Feel free to schedule an appointment through the form below.
