Here are some examples of ways that brands and organizations can use video explainers.
Video explainers used to sell a product
Many video explainers are animated. This is a good example of a different approach and value of a well-written, humourous script.
Video explainers used to explain who you are
This video introduces potential students to St Anne’s College, Oxford. The funny and well written script is informative but also succeeds at making the college seem down-to-earth and unpretentious, countering the negative stereotypes many associate with the university.
Video explainers used as training or internal comms
This humorous and well-written explainer on the CNN logo was designed to remind staff of the importance of keeping the logo consistent. But rather than a text-heavy “brand usage guide” this video delivers the information in an entertaining way.
Video explainers used as content marketing
This video explainer looks at the topic of silence, diving into the science of noise and the effect it has on our wellbeing. The client, 3M, is present throughout — we learn about the science behind the anechoic chamber they use for research and meet one of their scientists — but nothing is forced, allowing the video to be genuinely interesting to a wide audience.
A wonderful short film about the artist John Baldessari. Commissioned by LACMA (The Los Angeles County Museum of Art) to (indirectly) promote their “Art + Film Gala” featuring John Baldessari and Clint Eastwood.
A science explainer from xerox. Part of a series promoting their new inks and printers.
A popular explainer (1m + views) that also promotes the accountants, Johnston Grocke.