Explain Ninja

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the CMO for a financial intelligence company. We're building wealth management tools for allocators, family offices and their families.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Explain Ninja, and what were your goals?

Wealth management is really complicated. Our product has tons of features and concepts that are foreign to many people. We wanted to create a video that would resonate quickly with our audience, and that was also versatile so that we could use it in a variety of marketing situations. We also wanted to "punch above our weight" in terms of quality.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We looked at a number of local design agencies but ultimately nobody specialized in explainer videos. We also tried out a few freelancers but the high bar wasn't being met. After watching a few samples and engaging in the estimation process we knew these guys were the pros we had been searching for.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

The process was really smooth. We started with a few email exchanges, then had a couple of zoom calls to discuss the project. After that, we received a few different price ranges based on our requirements. From there, we received many storyboards and had some back and forth on the script. While the storyboards were polished, we picked music, voiceovers, etc. After that, there were sample animations and transitions. The final pieces were many back-and-forth critiques, iterations and polish points.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

We had multiple account/project managers who were infinitely patient with us throughout the process. Our vision was very particular, and they were thoughtful, communicative and respectful of our requests.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

At our company stage, we're using the video as both a promotional tool and a fundraising tool. In both regards, recipients are consistently impressed. From an outcomes perspective, we have locked down funding and signed new contracts as a result of the video.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Communication was clear, frequent and consistent. There were many times when I would get distracted by my internal work and their team always brought me back into focus. I love that they respected our time, but were also diligent in keeping the project moving forward. At one point, we were handed to a new project manager and the transition was also seamless.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their ability to crank out a very complicated project in relatively short order is impressive. They also received a huge amount of feedback from us and took it all in stride, never getting frustrated or flustered. On top of that, the ability to turn around changes and edits in hours not weeks is always impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

There were points in the process I wished their team could have been more exploratory with us, providing optionality.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I lead the creative department at Zalando, an e-commerce retailer.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Explain Ninja Studio?

We wanted to revamp our videos, which explain our business model, delivery times, return processes, and so on to new customers. The videos already existed, but we wanted to improve them because we had changed our design language and visual identity.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

After we agreed on the plan, timeline, and price, we sent Explain Ninja a creative brief with a list of all deliverables. Our assigned project manager then scheduled catch-ups with my team and organized the delivery of the videos. We collaborated on each video one by one. With the existing videos as references, they altered everything and created new animations. After helping us write the script, they developed unique illustrations based on our guidelines and then animate them. The team also took care of the voice-overs. In total, the Explain Ninja team delivered five animated videos with voice-overs in 11 languages each.

What is the team composition?

We communicated only with the project manager.

How did you come to work with Explain Ninja Studio?

We approached a few companies. They each came back with us with a quote, and we ended up with Explain Ninja.

How much have you invested with them?

The cost was €50,000 (approximately $59,000 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from December 2020–June 2021.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

I can’t speak to the impact yet, because the videos are still being implemented and are not yet live. However, we shared the videos with our stakeholders, and the quality was just what we imagined.

How did Explain Ninja Studio perform from a project management standpoint?

The process was really smooth. We had a few feedback rounds, and when we asked for some iterations on some of the illustrations, they always made the changes swiftly. The project manager was responsive and open to feedback. We had calls initially, but we mostly communicated exclusively through email, and she’d always reply within a few hours. Whenever we had any comments, she’d relay them to the other team members. When reviewing storyboards, we used Boords, a useful tool that allowed us to make suggestions. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

I’m impressed by their expertise and experience in creating explainer videos and informative content. In addition, the team was able to provide not just the videos but also scripts and voice-overs. Overall, it was helpful that they managed to execute the whole video production process on their own.

Are there any areas they could improve?

There were times it got confusing. The approval process was done via email, and there were many voice-over recordings that we had to go through because there were five videos in 11 languages. A collaboration tool like Asana or Trello would’ve been helpful. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Create a good briefing for the team.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the digital marketing manager at a network solutions company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Explain Ninja Studio?

We hired Explain Ninja Studio to create videos that explained our technically complex products. We wanted our clients to understand the different features.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

The team produced a series of videos explaining our core offering and specific technologies for different industries, including finance and retail. They uploaded the videos to YouTube and embedded the links on our website to enable sharing across our social media platforms. Currently, we’re working on a video that relates to the finance industry.

What is the team composition?

I worked with three people, including a project manager and a lead designer. Though they likely have a bigger team, I’ve only worked with these teammates.

How did you come to work with Explain Ninja Studio?

We searched Dribble for animators and liked Explain Ninja Studio's style and quality. After discussing our expectations and budget, we decided they were a good fit. We continued the collaboration because the test video they created went well.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $40,000-$50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

The partnership began in October 2018 and is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Although I don’t have specific metrics, the videos have been helpful during customer engagements. We’re consistently satisfied with their work, so we continue to work with them. They did a fantastic job on the retail explainer video, so we’re in the process of completing another one.

How did Explain Ninja Studio perform from a project management standpoint?

Although there’s a time difference between our companies, they always meet our deadlines. Explain Ninja Studio is transparent about project timelines and are quick with turnaround times.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Explain Ninja Studio’s core value is their design quality; their video production skills are top-notch. For the price we pay, their services are a bargain.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Though they’re great listeners, we sometimes have to explain the technical aspects of our work a few times before they fully grasp the idea. This can lead to some back and forth during the storyboarding process, but that’s because they aren’t a technical company.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be clear and upfront with your requirements. Before contacting them decide what you want to leave as little room as possible for misinterpretation.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Senior Prospect Marketing Manager, Global Solutions of Avalara

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Tax technology and compliance

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Explain Ninja to accomplish?

• Design and build a compelling 1 minute explainer video
• Drive awareness of Avalara e-invoicing

SOLUTION

How did you find Explain Ninja?

Online Search

Why did you select Explain Ninja over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Examples of their previous work inspired me

How many teammates from Explain Ninja were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

1 x 60 second animated video (Pro Package), with voiceover and subtitles plus various different language adaptations; French, German, Italian & Polish (subtitles, on screen text and voiceover)

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The projects were delivered on time and budget. Combined, our different language videos have attracted over 2.4 million views on YouTube in just 18 months, and have been a huge success in driving traffic to Avalara.com/e-invoicing, generating awareness and conversion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70AZ9V8XZ8c

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Explain Ninja were very responsive, great communication throughout the project, proactive and quick to respond to changes in scope.

What was your primary form of communication with Explain Ninja?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their dedication to quality, clear and concise communication on project timelines and deadlines and the team's approach to customer service and support throughout the project lifecycle.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Explain Ninja could have done differently?

No areas for improvement that I experienced.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am in the position of CEO in our company and Our company provide a service that offers to pay with cryptocurrency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Explain Ninja Studio, and what were your goals?

Explainer video production for our firm, we provide a service that offers to pay with cryptocurrency. This is a good solution, given the wide opportunities for investing in cryptocurrency and the complexity of its use in real life. We decided to use promotional video for a cryptocurrency company in educational purposes and engage the audience. The video had to tell about the service and its functions.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Based on their portfolio and a great reputation.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

We approached with a clear vision of what we needed. The team were inspired by the provided idea and created an explainer video using stop motion technology. The first stage of our interaction was the coordination of the script, the creation of the director's script and the preparation of the storyboard. Explain Ninja managed to develop a script and adapted it to French.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Director and production designer, translators and editors.Graphic designers and the art team.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

According to the idea of the video, it was required to create a lot of various props. Some of the props were purchased, the rest was prepared by the art team. So, in the video could see exclusive handmade items.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Was great! I understood the role and competencies of every team member.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their approach and work ethics are impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

It was completely ok.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am Art Director at Logitech

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Explain Ninja Studio, and what were your goals?

We lacked some serious human resources for animation design and decided to appeal to a reliable vendor. We’ve come up with an idea to create a series of animated cartoons to support the concept of one of our business client updates. We’ve got a huge audience on Facebook and other social media channels, so we needed a bit of gamification to engage and interact with it in an original way.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We've heard a lot about Explain Ninja

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

They helped with animated objects, storyboards for storytelling, detalization of cartoon personages, voices, translation in 3 languages, special effects and a bit of corrections and then finalization.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

Designers, editors, voice actors, motion designers, and a huge crew for post-production.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Compelling and moving animated objects were created for our campaign. The process was seamless, thanks to the team's communicativeness, professionalism and always being ready for a feedback.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

Though we minimized our impact on the process, the team still was open for any remark. Such a great dialogue between a vendor and a client are the magic.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The quality of their work and their easy-going manner were impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

None of them noticed, all was a fantastic experience

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm a Startuper, Enterpreneur and Sales at our new project called Eatly. Food niche.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Explain Ninja Studio, and what were your goals?

Video production

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

word-of-mouth

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail, including the project steps and all stages of production.

Ceation of promo videos with great motion design, we needed to come up with the ideas for a promo to fit the niche. Had to pick the right obects and a scenario, etc.

Who did you work with and what was the feedback process like?

A couple of designers and a PM. Later scenarios were written. The team was really great in motion design.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

The top-notch video production service enabled to exceed expectations and help support customer engagements. Everyone was happy with the promotional video they crafted.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

They helped to determine the concept, understand and eliminate the mistakes, and create great scenario, and, of course, to build competent relationships, which were completely transparent. 

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

There were no hidden payments. Didn’t take too long, either, as we were too in a hurry with the website release and needed our promos to be done literally overnight.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

All was just perfect