Kasra Design®

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Corporate Communications Manager of Yinson Holdings Berhad

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Yinson Holdings Berhad is a global energy infrastructure and technology company, listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. We are active in five businesses:   

·        Yinson Production is a leading independent owner and operator of floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessels worldwide, with an orderbook of close to USD 22 billion until 2048.   

·        Yinson Renewables is a global independent renewable power producer with 557 MW of utility scale renewable generating assets in operation, a pipeline of over 1.5 GW of projects in development and over 3 GW of early-stage opportunities.   

·        Yinson GreenTech is a green solutions provider that aims to electrify the transportation and logistics sectors across land and sea by delivering a clean, integrated and technology-enhanced zero-emissions ecosystem.   

·        Farosson is an advisory, investment and asset management group with a niche in sustainable infrastructure investments.   

·        Regulus Offshore owns and charters offshore support vessels (OSVs) supporting the offshore industry.   

We are recognised for our leadership position in sustainability and ESG. We set the Climate Goals to be carbon neutral by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050 and are actively implementing solutions, through our businesses, towards a low carbon future.  

For more information about us, please visit www.yinson.com.  

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Kasra Design® to accomplish?

• Production of Yinson Group's corporate video
• Production of Yinson Production's corporate video
• Production of Yinson Renewables' corporate video
• Production of Yinson GreenTech's corporate video

SOLUTION

How did you find Kasra Design®?

Online Search

Why did you select Kasra Design® over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

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

Kasra managed the following when it came to our corporate videos: 

• graphic style (provided an array of graphic styles for us to choose from and provided excellent advice on which style would suit the company best) 
• script writing (crafted a very compelling message based on the pointers we provided) 
• storyboard drafts (detailed artwork, narrative style and quick with draft turnovers) 
• animation (great animation quality, corporate identity is meticulously woven into the overall video) 
• VO (very helpful with the VO selection process for both AI and non-AI VOs, panel of VOs are friendly to work with) 
• Delivery of videos are timely and high quality. 
• Working Kasra Design® has been a delightful experience, thanks to their quick response, quality work and deep understanding of our corporate identity. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Timely delivery of videos

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

• Delivered on time
• Friendly
• Responsive to queries and helpful to find work arounds/ solutions 

What was your primary form of communication with Kasra Design®?

Email or Messaging App

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

• Extensive portfolio 
• Quality of work 
• Quick response 

Are there any areas for improvement or something Kasra Design® could have done differently?

Nothing in particular 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

 I am the Content Manager of an EV Charger Manufacturer

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We make EV chargers

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Kasra Design to accomplish?

• Get people to understand how our technology works

SOLUTION

How did you find Kasra Design?

Online Search

Why did you select Kasra Design over others?

• High ratings
• Good value for cost

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

Our collaboration with Kasra focused on the production of a 3-minute 3D animation, available in English and eight other languages. They contributed to developing the storyline, provided detailed storyboards, and delivered visually engaging animations. Deliverables encompassed concept development, storyboarding, animation production, and multi-language support. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

As of now, we haven't gathered highly measurable data to demonstrate the project's outcomes. However, we've received positive internal feedback from our organization, indicating that the animation has been well-received. We've begun the process of rolling it out, which signifies progress and the initial steps toward leveraging its potential impact.

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

Kasra showcased good project management skills throughout our collaboration. While there were occasional delays in delivery, the quality of their work remained consistently high. They demonstrated flexibility and a willingness to find solutions to meet our needs. Overall, we are happy with the outcome and appreciate Kasra Design's efforts to deliver a satisfactory product.

What was your primary form of communication with Kasra Design?

Email or Messaging App

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

They are flexible and solution-oriented. 

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

While our collaboration with Kasra Design was overall positive, there are a couple of areas where improvements could be made. Firstly, during the storyboard phase, we found that aligning text and imagery more closely could enhance clarity and streamline the visualization process. Utilizing tools like Google Docs or similar platforms may facilitate this alignment more effectively in future projects.

Additionally, there were some delays in the project timeline, partly attributable to change requests from our end, but also due to a longer-than-anticipated production time initially communicated to us. Clearer communication regarding project timelines and potential delays would be beneficial for future collaborations.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the content manager. It's my job to help create content to help us acquire new leads.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Kasra Design, and what were your goals?

Our product is quite comprehensive with lots of features, which can at times can cause potential customers to think the solution is too broad for their needs. We needed a Promotional video for our company to use in multiple marketing campaigns to provide narrative and help explain our features as more of a process, rather than a mixed bag of features.

SOLUTION

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

During our search for potential video production companies we found videos posted on Vimeo by Kasra. By group consensus, we felt they were both broad and imaginative enough give us a sense that Kasra would be able to take our initial ideas and develop them further into something powerful and impactful.

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

We started by having a meeting to discuss what we wanted to achieve with the video, any initial ideas we had, and things we felt we needed to cover or wanted to avoid with the final product. Together we created a plan, providing the information requested so that we could work with unison on a script, story board sketches, voice overs, music and animation.

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

We worked with a project manager who was very knowledgeable about the entirety of the process. We had really good back and forth communication, making sure both Kasra and our own team were on the same page for every step of the process.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have yet to promote the video publicly, but within our own company we have had some incredibly positive feedback. The video succinctly summaries the key aspects of our business endeavours and outlines them in a clear, structured narrative.

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

We found our Project Manager - and Kasra as a whole - a pleasure to work with. Patient, hardworking, diligent, creative, friendly; they ticked all the boxes we have when searching for creative partners.

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

For us, the most impressive thing was the experience and creativity Kasra brought to the project. We began thinking we had a well formed and fleshed out idea, but Kasra showed us better storyboard solutions to reach our goal. Finding a creative partner who is looking to achieve the best for their client (rather than just what the client wants) is really beneficial.

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

For us, personally, no. We found each an every aspect of working with Kasra either met or exceeded our expectations.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the CTO for a SaaS product company focusing on helping Restaurants increase their profitability.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Kasra Design, and what were your goals?

We hired Kasra Design to create an explainer video in an easy-to-understand way. The video was published on our website but also used for introductions and investor pitches.

SOLUTION

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

We looked at a couple of different ones, were https://breadnbeyond.com/ was the top contender but I was still not happy about the art work (felt too generic and too clip-art) in the videos and was still looking for options til I stumbled upon Kasra Design which I think had a wide range of styles and the quality of the productions were great.

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

We kickstarted the project by filling out a brief and a script and went step by step which voice overs and finale cuts.

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

We worked with Sheryl and the communication and feedback was great! We were surprised how smooth everything went and how Sheryl and her team adapted to feedback quickly and with positive attitude.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Everyone who sees it are impressed and they ask if it was made by a very expensive marketing firm.

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

Basecamp + Email. Timeliness was impeccable!

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

Zero bullshit, clear communication, great quality and affordable.

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

No. This was absolutely a 5 star experience for us.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I work for a Global Trade Union Foundation as a Regional Programme Officer.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Kasra Design?

Video Production of a video that will cover the importance of classifying COVID-19 as an occupational disease in ASEAN states for the benefit of all, but primarily to increase social protection for workers.

What were your goals for this project?

Increase public knowledge on the importance of social protection, and the correct classification of diseases that workers may contract at the workplace.

SOLUTION

How did you select Kasra Design?

Internet research and by getting a feel of their work ethic and quality by reviewing their portfolio.

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

Kasra handled the storyboarding, animation and overall production of the video. They ensured that the style of animation would capture the spirit of trade unions.

From our end, we provided them a script and was pleased when the team was knowledgeable on background information on trade unions. Very well rounded team.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

I believe KASRA's whole animation team contributed to our video well. Sheryl was indeed a great focal person, and extremely attentive and asked all the right questions.

Indeed, the team made sure to get back to us with their feedback and gave their insights. After the video was completed, there were some minor edits needed and they humbly obliged.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

A trade union in Philippines saw our video which is part of a larger campaign and decided to make their own localized version, which has strengthened our campaign for the whole of ASEAN.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Extremely effective, loved the fact that they used Basecamp. It made communication extremely easy.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We found their work ethic to be the most impressive.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m an account manager for an organization focused on donor retention for charities through data management. Along with processing transactions, we help with customer service, marketing, and communication.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Kasra Design?

We needed to hire an external resource to create an animated video that would help our charity partners with their communication strategies. 

What were your goals for this project?

The purpose of the video was to help educate and create awareness for the chosen causes, as well as to aid in fundraising efforts.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

My team shortlisted a few vendors. After some back and forth communication with each, we found Kasra Design to have the best offerings for both quality and value.

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

Kasra Design first talked with us to understand our business and the intent of the video. After taking into consideration our thoughts, they came back with ideas to use as a starting point to further develop the concept. They worked collaboratively with us during each stage, from scripting to storyboarding and voice over. 

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Kasra Design utilizes Basecamp as their project management system. We went through a revision process until we were satisfied with the final video.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve seen an increase in awareness of the work our charity partners carry out. We also now have additional material to use for the acquisition of new funds.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Kasra Design worked as a partner rather than a vendor, which is very important. They had a vested interest in the success of the campaign. Using Basecamp helped create a clear, accountable, and timely workflow.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their focus on customer service is what sets them apart from other agencies. It’s also the key reason they’ve retained our organization as a customer.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Their speed of delivery can be improved. However, their communication helped to manage our expectations. We weren’t over-promised and under-delivered on anything.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the creative services lead at a SaaS company based in Santa Monica, California.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Kasra Design?

We wanted to create an animated explainer video for one of our online tools.

What were your goals for this project?

The video needed to explain the tool and its potential uses to help our clients understand how we can help improve their healthcare practice.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found them through a basic Google search. They displayed some impressive examples of their work that we wanted to incorporate into our video, so we decided to give them a shot.

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

We provided the Kasra Design team with relevant materials to inform the video like a creative brief, a style guide and some other logos and assets. We agreed on a reasonable timeline; then they started working on the project. They handled all aspects of the video—scriptwriting, storyboarding, casting, voice-over recording, animation, and production.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

They provided updates on their progress through Basecamp, and we also used that software to share any feedback and approve their work.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We haven’t rolled out the video yet, but we’re very happy with the final result. They took our requests in stride, and they addressed every one of our concerns.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow was smooth. They made sure to get our approval on each element before moving to the next step, which saved us time and money. I appreciated the quality of their service.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I was very impressed by their flexibility and transparency. They made sure we understood their pricing decisions before they started any work. We missed some deadlines and made some changes on our end, but the Kasra Design team accommodated our needs. The project manager was very efficient.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, I don’t have any complaints.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

HelloGold is a fintech blockchain platform. We build financial products for the emerging market of underserved and underbanked populations.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Kasra Design?

They helped us out on our crypto side of the business. Our goal with Kasra was to produce a product animation for GOLDX, our crypto coin.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Kasra produced an explainer video for us. I wrote the script and they reviewed it, offered suggestions, and drafted a storyboard. Once it was approved, they developed the animation and audio. They also produced the required live recordings and delivered the final product, which is the animation.

What is the team composition?

I mostly dealt with their managing director and CEO. They had a team backing them up.

How did you come to work with Kasra Design?

I found them in an online search. I wanted to work with someone I could meet face-to-face. Kasra Design’s portfolio looked good. They had international quality standards, which is what we were going for.

How much have you invested with them?

I spent $10,000 on the work.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Kasra in February 2018. The project finished this week.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The quality of Kasra’s work on the animation end was good.

How did Kasra Design perform from a project management standpoint?

They performed sincerely well. They communicated regularly and clearly. I managed the project, and I’ve been traveling a lot this year. There were some delayed responses on my end, but Kasra was on top of the work.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I appreciated their professionalism and the fact that they were always communicating. I was always actively included in what was going on, and they were clear about what they needed from me. This helped a lot, especially when dealing with multiple projects. On top of that, the quality of their animation is definitely worth the funds in terms of how polished it is.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We implemented a live-recording component that involved our CEO, and there were a few variables that weren’t handled well on the audio side. The recordings had too much echo because we made them in an open space in a studio. We could hear a tunnel sound during my boss’s speaking parts, but Kasra fixed the mistake. I wish we’d known about that variable before recording it.

The voiceover talent is an improvement point. They gave us a lot of samples to choose from. Then, they sent us two versions for the choices we made. The energy was there, but more variation on the presentation style would have been better. Showing more than just two variations would’ve been good or they could’ve had us in a call during the recording process to give a few pointers. We could’ve navigated the voiceover feel that way to get a tone that was closer to what we were going for. I gave Kasra clear feedback, and they were on board with it. The voiceover was professional, but, in terms of overall tone, I would have liked more life out of the voice used.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

Clients should give them a clear brief that describes the desired feel. Kasra Design offers a lot of voice options; the client needs to get involved in that process, as opposed to just having the final audio delivered.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

Shoppertise has 2 offices in Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. The company was started in 2014, and we provide mobile-first e-commerce solutions for small businesses. To date, we have helped more than 4,000 brands in Malaysia increase their sales and manage orders on both offline and online channels. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Kasra Design?

We wanted a quick introduction in the form of a video that we could share at workshops and the booths we set up at local events. The video was meant to introduce the problem we were trying to solve and explain our approach. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Kasra Design produced 2 videos for us to explain what our business does. We use them as marketing tools. They are hosted on our website as well as on our YouTube channels. We’ve shared them on social media, but the videos have mostly been used in our workshops, where we have weekly meet-and-greets with potential small-business merchants.

Both videos are 2D animations. Because we have a presence in 2 countries, we needed to produce the videos in 2 languages—English and Indonesian. I spoke to a founder of Kasra Design and explained that we needed local voice talent, ideally based in Indonesia. She quickly started a search, even though she didn’t have local expertise at the time. Her approach was very professional.

How did you come to work with Kasra Design?

I knew them from my previous company, for which Kasra Design had produced 2 other videos. A few other companies sent us some of their video examples, but I didn’t feel comfortable working with a group I didn’t know. I don’t have a lot of time to handle communication and project management, as I travel a lot. Since I was familiar with Kasra Design and knew that they understood how I worked, I thought it would be easier to engage with the same company.

How much have you invested with Kasra Design?

The cost of their work was between $7,000 and $10,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Kasra Design in October 2016 for our first Shoppertise video. The most recent video was finished a month ago. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Could you share any evidence that would demonstrate the productivity, quality of work, or impact of the engagement?

I don’t have any metrics at hand, but my Indonesian partner loved the quality of Kasra Design’s work, which is why we decided to engage them for a second video. Their video was able to deliver a short description of what we do during workshops. This would have otherwise been labor-intensive, and we didn’t just want to repeat our services.

How did Kasra Design perform from a project management standpoint?

I found the process straightforward. We mainly communicated via Basecamp and WhatsApp. We had phone calls if we needed to discuss or resolve something quickly, but everything was done mostly online. The response time hasn’t exceeded 12 hours so far.

The team looks at feedback objectively and always tried to understand why I was making particular requests. They simplified the message I was trying to deliver and cleaned up our content.

What did you find most impressive about Kasra Design?

I really appreciate their professionalism, from the start to the end of the project. I felt that Kasra Design had complete control of the work. I’ve dealt directly with their co-founder, which has been great. Each video has fun elements and smart metaphors, which makes them quite interesting to watch, even for repeat viewings.

Are there any areas Kasra Design could improve?

I wish they had startup prices, but I can’t really complain.