So you have a great idea for an explainer video, and now you have a big decision to make:
Do it yourself, or hire an expert?
DIY is more than just trendy Pinterest home projects. It can also apply to your work: doing projects internally that might normally be reserved for an expert specialist.
While there are many companies who specialize in making amazing explainer videos, there aren’t many that are as special as we are – watch this video to learn about our BCorp and Great Place to Work Certifications.
If you do some quick internet research, you will learn there are softwares out there that enable you to make your own animation. And with AI tools becoming more popular, you might be wondering about using AI programs like Saura to create explainer videos.
On the flip side, there are many companies who specialize in making amazing explainer videos (we have thirteen years in the biz!)
So – DIY or ‘Hire a guy’? There are pros and cons no matter what you choose.
We’re here to walk you through the questions you have and share our expert advice on animation pricing, process, and quality for both options.
How Much Does it Cost to Make My Own Animation?
When it comes to the DIY option, this is the leading ‘pro.’ It will probably cost you less money to create an animation yourself, rather than hiring a professional.
However, money is not the only important resource in this cost-efficiency equation. Creating your own explainer video may ultimately cost you more time and effort than hiring someone to do it for you, which means you will have less time and brain-space to work on other things (let’s face it, the things you are good at and truly add value to your organization).
When you hire an animation company, you are giving yourself the gift of time. You can focus on the things that matter most to you, while the company does the bulk of the legwork. All you need to do is provide feedback to make sure the animation is exactly as you dreamed.
Have a project in mind and looking for a more specific quote? Click here to fill out a quote request form, and our team will reach out promptly with more information.
What is the Process of Creating My Own Explainer Video?
Big software companies have offered DIY programs for animation that have allowed amateur users to create videos using publicly available content and the files on their computer. These softwares vary in process, interface, and quality, but we can generally conclude that each one could get you from point A to point B – at least for the goals of an explainer video.
Typically, you will work with stock images to create your explainer video, and a limited array of motion and effects. Depending on what you are looking for, this may be all you need to create a video to meet your goals: but ultimately you will be limited in how much you can customize your video. Additionally, you will run into a ceiling for quality and creativity.
This explainer video breaks down each step of our animation production process – it’s also a handy example of our hybrid animation style that blends live footage with illustrated elements.
What About AI Generated Videos?
These days, though, things are evolving fast: can you use technology like ChatGPT or Sora to create explainer videos? Our short answer is “yes, but…”
Yes, you can leverage these tools to take your specific input and spit out a related piece of content. However, working with a video production company guarantees a high level of creativity and quality, including:
- A thorough discovery process where our team learns in depth about your organization and subject matter (check out the video above!)
- Hand-drawn artwork catered to your project, created by skilled illustrators and animators
- Persuasive scripts and thoughtful project management by real humans who understand your goal, audience, product, and how it all fits together.
While AI tools may be able to generate video content, we’re passionate about what happens when we form a true partnership with our clients in the creation of their animated video projects. The real magic happens within this synergy, and real humans can more effectively help you in furthering your goals, creating cohesive branded campaigns, and delivering explainer videos that have a real impact.
Which video will be better: the DIY Explainer Video or the Expert-Created Explainer Video?
When you hire an expert animation company, you are getting years of experience. That means expert script writers who will make sure your message shines. Professional voiceover artists who will absolutely nail the delivery. Illustrators and animators who are talented, creative, and will elevate your project to a true work of art.
There is also a misconception that DIYing your video gives you more control over the final product and subsequent versions.
When you work with an animation company, you aren’t giving up control. In fact, you’re partnering with someone who can bring out the best in your idea and help you make something even more amazing. AI tools now present a different pathway for DIY animations, but they ultimately lack the human touch that produces elevated, impactful animated video campaigns.
You probably aren’t an expert animator. It’s okay, we can’t all be! So it follows that an animation you make yourself just won’t be as good as one an animation company can make for you. Maybe it’ll get the job done, and that’s good enough. But if you want something that looks polished, professional, and truly exceeds expectations, then you should go with a pro.
The verdict? If you have a tiny to non-existent budget, and the time and creativity to invest, DIY can be a good choice. However, if you have a budget, we very strongly recommend partnering with an expert animation shop. This is the only way to ensure a high-quality, highly-effective product.
