Ideas Animation Studio

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder of a consulting and leadership training firm.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Ideas Animation Studio?

I needed a suite of training videos to follow up on the mobile app we developed.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Ideas Animation Studio provided animated video production to help us train and assess people on our mobile app. They utilized their own equipment throughout the partnership and handled everything from audio mixing to scriptwriting.

The team essentially completed a series of ten videos and took care of the scriptwriting, storyboarding, and voiceover work.

What is the team composition?

I mainly interfaced with Iqra (Animation Producer) and about three other animators.

How did you come to work with Ideas Animation Studio?

We found Ideas Animation Studio on Upwork while searching on Google.

How much have you invested with them?

We invested about $5,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from August–November 2022.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I don’t really have a lot of specific data about the videos they produced, but the feedback from viewers has been generally positive.

How did Ideas Animation Studio perform from a project management standpoint?

They were great from a project management perspective, and we typically communicated through Zoom, email, and Upwork.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We were impressed with their project management, innovation, communication, and integrity.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything they need to improve on, as they were able to complete this project despite the adversities they were facing at that time.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I would recommend being clear with what you want to achieve and providing them with as much feedback and information as possible with every single step of the partnership.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the Founder of ShineTrue. We help leaders create the results they want to see in their lives.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio, and what were your goals?

At the core of the ShineTrue process is the concept of how we create results in every area of our lives. We wanted to create an animation that explains this process in an easily accessible and visually stimulating way. This helps us educate our clients and also serves as a marketing tool on our website and across social media.

SOLUTION

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

We looked for a company that could accompany us on the creative process from start to finish on Upwork. This Vendor was fast in response, took time to really understand our needs and was very clear and structured in how they would go about the creative and production process.

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

We started by discussing the concept. Then we co-created the story followed by the script, storyboard and key graphic elements, like the scenes and the characters. The team then went out to find suitable voiceovers and the storyboard was animated. Finally, we had a number of rounds of revision to make sure that everything flowed well together.

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

We worked with a project coordinator who liaised between us and their team. She was excellent. She did a great job at understanding our requirements and passing those on to the creative team, then coming back to us and seeking inputs and feedback each step of the creative process.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We showed the animation to clients who much better understood what we are doing and it has helped our positioning in the market.

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

The project coordinator was very proactive in the communication. We mainly communicated through Upwork, Zoom calls and WhatsApp messaging. She provided frequent updates and always requested sign-off at each next step. She also proactively communicated and managed the timelines.

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

They took time to understand the process we were looking to communicate with the animation.  The team provided great visual ideas to put the concepts into practice in a fun, engaging way.

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

It may have been nice to have had a team all at some point as well but this didn't impact the quality of the work or collaboration at all.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

As the Executive Director of Global Tendo La Upendo, we created a new web app educational product for youth, and the videos created by Ideas Animation Studio were perfect to engage our audience as we taught each module about character building.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio, and what were your goals?

Our goal was to create an animated video for each module that would be topical using characters with scenarios so that the viewers of the videos would be engaged and interested in the concept being highlighted. This goal was achieved and we look forward to working with the Ideas Animation Studio team for future projects.

SOLUTION

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

We selected this vendor using Fiveer after a video conference in which the team clearly understood our objective, vision, and budget. They also provided sample videos as a way to display their full capabilities. The deciding factor was their willingness to complete our project within the timeframe that was given, their professionalism, and staying within our assigned budget.

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

We created 7 videos in which our team provided the scripts and then Ideas Animation Studio created the scenes and characters to match the script. We requested voice-overs and captions and all were incorporated and delivered to meet our deadline. Also, there were only a few revisions because communication was very effective during the initial onboarding as they understood the overall objective of what we were trying to achieve through video.

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

We worked with 2 team members and we communicated using email and comments in Fiveer. The feedback was always received professionally and changes were made within 24 hours or less. The Ideas Animation Studio team would always double-check to ensure that we were 100% satisfied with the final video. And without fail, our 100% satisfaction would always be YES!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

100% success was achieved and we are currently using the videos to embed into our web app project that will impact many youths so that they are aware of how they can build strong character and be more confident in their lives and improve their behavior.

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

The project management style was very professional. They were not pushy but very attentive to our needs and requests.

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

I found this company to be very impressive because in spite of them being on the other side of the world we communicated as if they were next door.

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

I have no suggestions for improvement at this time as they exceeded our expectations.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm a Creative Director at Ideaville, a full service creative studio. We did not have local animation talent at the ready for this project so we decided to use Ideas Animation Studio.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio, and what were your goals?

We hired Ideas for the illustration and animation of an informational video for Wacom.

SOLUTION

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

We needed a reasonably priced animation studio to take on this gig.

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

We went through 4 stages in this process.

• 1st they created the storyboard.
• 2nd they created the art assets including characters, props and locations.
• 3rd they replaced the storyboard sketch frames with approved creative assets.
• 4th they animated the video and submitted the final file to us.

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

We worked closely with Iqra of Ideas and the communication and feedback process was top notch! Ideas was always ready to make the edits requested by the client. The whole feedback process was very smooth and seamless. Also very quick turn around time.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The final product was very well received buy the client. The client was very impressed with the level of edits the team was able to make in the project.

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

We used email and messages most of the time. Iqra was very quick to return emails and messages even though we are both on the other side of the world. She even stayed up late to make phone meeting work.

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

The client had lots of detailed edits along the whole process which was to be expected. I was very impressed with how Iqra was always excited to make the edits happen no matter how many there were. She was always there with a smile ready to make it right for the clients needs.

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

The only thing that was hard to show clients was a few places on the storyboard that had miss spellings. I was fine with this as English is not there first language but it made it harder to show the client as they did not know.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I work as an Administrator for the company. We teach chess to school children in Australia.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio, and what were your goals?

We are trying to make it easier for new staff to get started with us and have decided to make an introduction course to help them along. These videos will be apart of that course.

SOLUTION

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

We chose Ideas Animation because of their good reviews on Upwork, and there affordability.

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

We provided them with a script and the voiceovers, along with some loose scene direction. They then sent the animation back and asked for notes, after these notes were addressed, we moved on to the next section.

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

We worked with the Lead Generation Specialist throughout the process. They were always quick to incorporate my notes and were very obliging when I wanted something to be a specific way

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The animation paired fantastically with the script and really elevated the meaning.

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

The manager was easy to talk to and accommodating to our preferred communication methods. They provided a timeline estimation upfront and stuck to it.

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

How quickly they produced the content and were able to make changes within hours of receiving my notes.

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

All things considered, no.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

CEO

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio, and what were your goals?

We needed an easy way to convey the value of our service.

SOLUTION

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

We reviewed many vendors and were most impressed with the examples from Ideas Animation Studio.

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

Ideas Animation Studio asked thorough questions to make sure they understood our project requirements. They created a storyboard for our approval then the animation. It was extremely easy to communicate with their team through the process.

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

We worked with Saad and he was extremely responsive and a pleasure to work with.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Ideas Animation Studio went above and beyond to create a top notch, professional video that we are proud to share with our customers. Everyone who watches the video loves it. We would recommend their services to anyone.

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

Their team used a storyboard to plan the project.

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

The most impressive thing about Ideas Animation Studio is the quality of their work and how deeply that understood our service. Every second of the video showed that they took the time to truly understand our message.

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

No, Ideas Animation Studio delivered a truly perfect video for us and we would recommend them to anyone.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the co-founder of an e-commerce company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio, and what were your goals?

We hired them to create an animated explainer video for our business.

SOLUTION

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

We looked for companies doing this on Fiverr. Their work portfolio was one of the best at a reasonable price.

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

We had an initial meeting where they tried to understand our brand in detail, our business, our thought process and preferences. I also shared the script for the video and explained the purpose in detail. Post that they prepared an initial story board with the exact plot of the video, a rough draft of the scenes and what the exact timeline will look like. After that, on the basis of my feedback, the necessary revisions were made.

In cases where I felt the sequence could be done differently, they recreated the entire sequence as well. Following this we had another draft with a more precise version of how the final scenes will look like and post that I received the final animation with the voiceover. At every stage they constantly took feedback from me and were very quick and open to do any changes.

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

I worked primarily with the project manager, Iqra. She frequently took my feedback on everything that was being done and was quick to communicate any required changes to her team.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

It has significantly reduced the time it takes us to explain our value proposition to prospective business partners. We're able to that just by sharing this video instead of getting on one-to-one calls just for this purpose.

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

We collaborated on Slack and Google Docs.

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

They took a lot of feedback during the entire development process instead of working in isolation. It made me feel comfortable about the final outcome.

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

None that I can think of.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Founder and CEO of a start-up.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio?

We were in need of an explainer video of our pre-launch site. The video is to explain the reason why customers and suppliers should sign up and the benefits that would give to them. All of this explained in a fun and easy way.

What were your goals for this project?

To present an easy and understandable video on the front page of the site.

SOLUTION

How did you select Ideas Animation Studio?

I found Ideas Animation through Fiverr. I had a very limited budget so went for the best in my price range.

Describe the video(s) and the process in detail.

We went through an introduction zoom call in-depth where they presented their way of working in detail, which was very informative. And then I got to explain the idea of the company and they understood exactly what I wanted to convey to my customer. And knowing it was a diamond in the rough they added some well-appreciated ideas themselves to get the message across even better.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Each phase ended with me giving feedback on the work. From the script, final script, sketch, final sketch, animation, etc. There was room to tweak and change throughout. And I was given a sufficient amount of time to respond, while still keeping to the deadline.

Even with a +5h massive timezone difference. Impressive! The main workflow was in google docs where we could work real-time together. Really really efficient. The project management has perfect English so there was never even one misunderstanding. Communication also went through email, WhatsApp, and slack if needed.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The video has not yet been launched since I just received it. However, the feedback from my panel of judges is overwhelmingly positive and is extremely well made.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Having a single point of contact (SPOC) was really appreciates. I would not have wanted it any other way. Their internal working routines were very efficiant and if there were any hiccups along the way from their end that was nothing that I noticed.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They were the only animation company from the selection of 10+ that I looked through the could convey a feeling to the customer. They build everything up in a way that it actually makes you feel something and "not just another video". It makes you think and smile. And people usually don't remember what you said but how you made them feel. And that is something that only Ideas Animation could pull off compared to the others I looked at.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Only minor things that I have communicated directly with Ideas animation. Nothing that would have changed the outcome of the final product so irrelevant to say here.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Podswap is an AirPod battery replacement service for dying AirPods. We deliver AirPods with restored battery life in exchange for your old, dying pair.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio?

We hired Ideas animation studio to create an informational animation about our service.

What were your goals for this project?

To educate people on our service and build brand awareness.

SOLUTION

How did you select Ideas Animation Studio?

I found Ideas animation studio on Fivver.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

They craft awesome storylines that result in informational animations that can be used as a tool to educate or explain.

What was the team composition?

I worked closely with a project manager to create the animation.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are able to share this video on our socials and website to better portray the service our company offers.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow was incredibly effective, their team was able to provide us with updates every step of the way. The process can be as hands-on or hands-off as you would like. They were able to provide great suggestions and help us tell our story in a compelling way.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I was especially impressed by their professionalism and patience. I was very hands-on during the process and they allowed me to express my feedback while still managing to keep the project on track. It was so great working with them from start to finish to create something that will be viewed by many and ultimately will be a really useful tool for our company.

Are there any areas for improvement?

None

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I work in Alumni Relations at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto. Our vision is to improve human health by advancing dentistry through inspired leadership, innovation, and excellence in education, research and practice. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Ideas Animation Studio?

We hired Ideas Animation Studio to create a video to thank our major donors, alumni, friends, students, mentors, and sponsors.

What were your goals for this project?

To steward our major stakeholders and thank them for their incredible contributions and support throughout the difficult months of the pandemic. Each group has remained committed to helping us achieve our missions and we couldn't think of a better way to express our gratitude for their continued efforts.

SOLUTION

How did you select Ideas Animation Studio?

They were fairly priced, had a great showreel, and were extremely responsive and professional during the inquiry process. Their onboarding process was also fantastic: clear, detailed and consistent.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

Ideas Animation Studio was requested to create a short 1-minute 30-second animated video with voiceover. We provided a script and idea which they worked with us on finalizing and translating into a wonderful video for our stakeholders.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We received positive feedback and responses from our stakeholders.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Very effective. We adapted to our time difference easily. The team was extremely committed to delivering the product on time and even turn around quickly when last-minute changes happened.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their responsiveness, commitment, and professionalism in taking this project from an idea to a complete piece of work.

Are there any areas for improvement?

We honestly felt like the process was smooth from start to finish.