So, you’ve signed off on a video project! Congratulations – you’re not far from having an engaging, custom animation in hand. But, you have questions…
How will we write a script that moves people into action?
Custom art will make your video stand out, but how long does it take to animate all that?
When do the steps of scripting, illustrating, voiceover and background music all come together?
What is time?!
Prefer video to reading? We get that. Check out this short video where Krystal and Laura break down each step of our tried-and-true process.
Fear not, we’ve broken down our tried-and-true process into 4 easy steps. Find each step below, and beneath it, find a few frequently asked questions about that step in the process.
We consider ourselves a one-stop shop for custom animations: we’ve worked hard for over twelve years to build a standard production plan that can wrangle any idea into a tidy timeliness so that you – and we – know what to expect and can still have fun along the way. Even better, while our standard production timeline takes 4-5 weeks, we can turn a video around in as little as 24 hours.
But you’re here for the details: what really goes on when you make an explainer video with Next Day Animations?
Step #1: Discovery/Scripting
Laying the right groundwork is essential to developing a great animated video. Discovery is where we figure out a game plan for meeting the goals of your video.
We start with a kick-off call and deep dive into your idea, and target audience. We decide on the video concept as well as the look, feel and style.
After that, we write the script, and lock down all the other details involved with how the actual video is going to look, sound, and perform.
Question: What is a kick-off call?
The kick-off call is an opportunity for everyone to align visions. During the call, usually held by video conference, you will meet with your core video production team: each project is managed by one of our excellent in-house producers, who will introduce you to our scriptwriter and any other people who might be supporting the creation of your video.
Question: What do I need to do to prepare for my kick-off call?
Don’t worry too much – after all, you hired us for a reason: we are experts at creating cohesive animations in a variety of industries, and feel excited about helping you turn your idea into the perfect video!
Our studio is equipped to animate your idea in a variety of different styles.
Check out the possibilities in the video above; or view more of our best projects here.
With that in mind, feel free to bring along resources to your kick-off call that you think will help our team better understand your final goal. This might look like pitch decks or presentations on the material that you might have made already, or any branding guidelines for your organization.
Step #2: Production
Now that we have the roadmap developed in the discovery stage, it’s time to put it all together. This is where our professional crew of animators, illustrators, voice actors, producers and sound engineers get to work.
Question: What do I do during production?
Our process requires contributions from multiple teams – during production, the plans drawn up during discovery are volleyed between our scriptwriter, illustrators, and producers to create the most excellent first attempt at bringing your idea to life through animation.
So…hang tight! Once the first version of your video is ready, you’ll have a chance to weigh in on what’s next.
Question: Who is working on my idea?
Check out the ‘About Us’ tab to see some of our smiling faces and roles at Next Day Animations. You can always find up-to-date happenings on our social media, too, like these awesome behind-the-scenes DITL videos we’ve been working on!
Step #3: Revisions
Once you’ve seen the first cut, you’ll have a chance to share your thoughts with us.
This is where the magic happens – you begin to see your vision really come into focus.
There is one round of revisions allowed at this stage, followed by two iterative rounds to ensure we have addressed any points from the prior rounds.
Question: How do revisions work? Will I need to download any huge files or a new video viewing software?
Absolutely not! Our team utilizes a program called Frame.io. It’s a web-based software for video review. It’s user-friendly, and doesn’t require you to download huge video files.
Question: Will everyone on my team have a chance to weigh in?
Of course! Frame.io creates an easily-shareable link, so your colleagues can not only view the drafts but also leave their own feedback and see yours.
We encourage you to loop in as many stakeholders as you can – as early in the process as you can!
You can read more of our tips for successful collaborative editing here.
Step #4: Final File Delivery
With the final cut complete and your approval signed-off, we create high quality files of your video that can be used for a variety of purposes.
To help get your animations in front of as many eyes as possible, your producer will be in touch with some helpful “Care & Feeding” tips for your new animation.
Question: What if I need more support with video roll-out?
We want your video to be a success as much as you do, which means we’re thrilled to offer support to our clients after their final files have been sent. Our clients can schedule a Video Launch Consultation call with our partnership director, Laura, who will support your team with some ideas and supportive guidance on topics like video distribution, web upload, and social media campaigning.
Question: What if we want to update our video next year, or make another video?
With animation, details can always easily be tweaked, added or updated as things change – no need for reinventing the wheel. Give us a call and we can always help kick off another project with you, whether it’s a small update or a brand new idea.
Still have questions?
Schedule your consultation here with one of our friendly client advisors. Or, click below for a quote on your video.
