Sparkhouse

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the production coordinator for an event and video production company. We specialize in all fields, such as events, video production, webcasting, and marketing assets.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We used them as our crew and gear vendor for our video shoot.

What were your goals for this project?

We hoped to shoot four people and hear their testimonials.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found them through an online search.

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

We had a one-day shoot where we needed crew and gear. They provided everything for us.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Torrey (Founder, Sparkhouse) was great with communication throughout the entire project.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our day of filming was very successful.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We had no problems with their workflow. They always responded quickly.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They found everything we needed.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, we’re very satisfied.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the product marketing manager for an education technology company. We create interactive and engaging learning environments within classrooms around the world.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We engaged Sparkhouse to produce an informational video about one of our new classroom products. We wanted a two-minute video that communicates what the product is, what problems it solves, and how it benefits the user.

What were your goals for this project?

Since our product was new and did not fall into any existing product categories, we had to explain the product’s purpose to foreign audiences effectively.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

My company did an online search for video production companies. Sparkhouse was among the top results. After several phone calls with Sparkhouse and other production houses, it was evident that Sparkhouse would be able to deliver our project better than anyone else.  

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

First, Sparkhouse set deadlines for pre- and post-production and guided us through the project timeline to confirm we were all on the same page. They familiarized themselves with the product and even sent team members to our office to see the product firsthand.  

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Sparkhouse’s project manager was informative and quick to respond to inquiries. After the video shoot, Sparkhouse provided a fantastic collaborative editing tool that allowed us to comment on the different versions of the video edits and communicate directly with members of the post-production team. They maintained a shared log of our comments, concerns, and requests so that we were up to date at all times.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Storyboarding was the lengthiest process because Sparkhouse wanted to ensure our satisfaction with every shot. They did great with casting and gave us hundreds of options for our cast. Following the completion of pre-production, the shoot went very smoothly. We have not released the video yet, but we plan to use it on our website, on the tradeshow floor, and in our advertising and marketing efforts. 

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The Sparkhouse team was accessible and easy to work with. They gave us frequent updates, which allowed us to stay on schedule. They confirmed every shot with us before filming to guarantee our 100% satisfaction. When we requested minor or major changes to shots, Sparkhouse quickly obliged.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The video project was timed with the release of the product, which meant the product didn’t technically exist in the beginning phases of the project. More than once, this required us to extend the film date. Sparkhouse repeatedly adapted the project to our timeline changes.  

We were one of Sparkhouse’s smaller clients, and they did a great job educating us in best practices, working with our uncertain timeline, and accommodating the challenges typical of a small business.

As the client, we were never responsible for coordinating logistics, such as casting. In the end, they delivered a fabulous video that promotes our product and elevates our company image.

Are there any areas for improvement?

If I had to comment on an opportunity for improvement, it would be to stay on brand. However, when there were off-brand issues, such as an animation’s font not being in our brand’s style guide, Sparkhouse was quick to adjust it for us. Sparkhouse was great and we have no complaints.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m a project manager for PhotoFast Global Inc. We’re a consumer electronics company that specializes in Apple accessories.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We were launching a new product and needed a promotional video for digital marketing and social media campaigns.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted a short film that promotes the new product, introducing its features and showing how it can compliment a potential user’s lifestyle. It also needed to reinforce our brand image.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We worked with Sparkhouse previously to promote another product line. We were satisfied with the results they achieved with our budget.

Describe the scope of their work in detail.

After the product launched, Sparkhouse walked us through the process of casting, finding a filming location, and creating the script.

What was the team composition?

We worked with Sparkhouse’s CEO to define the concept and contract. After that, a project manager oversaw production.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The film was a valuable asset in our product marketing campaign. It communicated the product’s concept, purpose, and features effectively. Our sales team used it for pitch meetings and exhibitions.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The project manager was easy to communicate with. The team was timely and provided frequent updates on their progress.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Sparkhouse delivered a high-quality video on a limited budget.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, we were satisfied with the collaboration at every step.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the marketing manager at Cambro Manufacturing. We produce supplies and equipment for the foodservice industry.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We hired Sparkhouse to create a product overview video for a new tool we were launching, the Ultimate Sheet Pan Rack.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted a short video that showcased the unique abilities of the new product and addressed potential objections to using the product.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

A co-worker referred Sparkhouse for this project.

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

First, we spoke on the phone with Sparkhouse, describing our goals and desired outcomes. Their team wrote the voiceover using provided materials. Once we approved the voiceover, the video shoot was planned. I obtained the location, talent, and props. After the video was shot, their team quickly edited and created the video, sending me versions as it progressed.

What was your vendors’ project management or feedback process?

We used Frame.io to provide creative feedback and view all stages of the video.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The video was recently completed, so no specific metrics at this time.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Sparkhouse was responsive to all my requests in a timely manner.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their team was full of outstanding ideas and were helpful in guiding my company through this engagement.

Are there any areas for improvement?

I can’t think of anything. Sparkhouse was an excellent team to work with on this video.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the VP of marketing and communications for an international travel brand.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We needed to produce a video for a consumer PR event in New York.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to evoke the stress and anxiousness involved in scheduling travel and then describe how people should be traveling via text with strong typography.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found them online.

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

Sparkhouse produced a 30-second long video with stock footage and imagery we selected together and on-screen type. It ran before our brand video, which displayed the happiness and ease of traveling with us.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

We received and approved a quote after our initial call. After that, we communicated by email. They were responsive and easy to work with.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The media event was a success. The sound, imagery, and overall feel of the video exuded what we needed. I was thrilled with it.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

It was simple, smooth, and pleasant.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They managed everything to ensure we met the deadline. We saved money on the imagery we used thanks to their sourcing advice.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, not at this time.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the marketing director at Jacuzzi Worldwide. My team is responsible for all web and social media content for our hot tub brands.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We hired Sparkhouse to create a series of testimonial videos for two of our brands.

What were your goals for this project?

Owners of Jacuzzi brand portable hot tubs enjoy the products. We wanted to give them a voice to how they use them and what value they add to their lives. We also wanted to ease the shopping process and encourage customers to visit their hot tub dealers to get their questions answered.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Sparkhouse was referred to us by a business contact.

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

Sparkhouse handled the production and editing of the videos.

Through some local dealers, we found four families that were willing to participate in the videos. Over multiple days of shooting, we captured each family’s story at their home and in our showroom.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

The shoot was incredibly smooth. Communication with Sparkhouse was excellent.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The videos have received thousands of views and have significantly improved the user experience of our websites. We’ve continued to use the footage years after the project ended.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Communication through the entire process, from pre-production to editing, was outstanding. The project went off efficiently and on budget.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

It was great to work with a local company with excellent production values and customer service.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Nothing during this engagement, they were a great team.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the CEO of a medical advertising agency in Orange County, California and am responsible for all our creative material.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

A client of ours wished to capture the energy, intelligence, and comradeship of the world’s leading physicians through a video. Professionalism and discretion were paramount.

What were your goals for this project?

Our client was aiming to recruit likeminded physicians from around the world by showing exactly what the thought leaders gained that had already joined.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I had seen their reel and was introduced by one of our area’s biggest connectors.

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

Sparkhouse clearly understood the time-sensitive component of posting immediately after our conference. They were instrumental in creating a dynamic video with the client that fostered trust.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

We were on a highly-compressed timeline but you would never have known it! We were provided a dedicated production manager that kept both sides moving along. All versions of our video were delivered on time with each of our comments addressed.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Using only this video, our client increased its membership by 300% in just a month’s time. Sparkhouse nailed the key attributes necessary to reach our goals. Their prep work on site was flawless, and they were incredibly professional throughout the whole project. In post-production, their contributions were spot on and they were superior listeners. I found it easy to spend long hours with their team.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We literally lived together for three straight days to get this done, and the client was insisting on some really counterproductive edits. Sparkhouse was impeccable in addressing the client, providing them access to the Sparkhouse team and striking the communicative trust that allowed us to move through the project without delays or surprises.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their organizational structure is flat, which means I had the principal working right alongside the client, the crew, and our agency. I felt that if I had an issue, I could tell anyone and get an immediate result, which was impressive.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Not on our project. They were on time and stayed within budget with a production value that exceeded even my lofty expectations. We did have one crew member get loose on the decks at the client conference, but before I could call attention to it, Sparkhouse resolved the situation.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the marketing manager for an IT service provider that specializes in repairs and hardware management.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We engaged Sparkhouse to develop a corporate video that highlights our latest services and offerings.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to introduce our company to new markets and promote our services to prospective customers unfamiliar with us.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Sparkhouse impressed us with their portfolio of sample videos; it covered a wide range of styles, products, and target audiences.

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

We first set up a meeting with Sparkhouse to discuss our company and strategy. They then brought us ideas and a mood board for inspiration. Once we approved those ideas, they developed a script that we then tweaked. They oversaw one day of principal filming. Now we’re wrapping up the editing phase.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Sparkhouse always responds to our emails and calls. They’re also open to meetings to keep us updated and maintain the project’s momentum.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

While the video isn’t yet complete, I’m very pleased with the progress so far.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

They’ve made the collaboration effortless. We keep in constant contact with multiple members of the Sparkhouse team to address each aspect of the production.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They’ve demonstrated a high level of responsiveness and in-depth knowledge throughout the project.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, we’re highly satisfied with their work.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m a marketing analyst at a healthcare company headquartered in Irvine, CA. We provide comprehensive risk management solutions to employers for their employees.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We need animated videos to distribute to either our current or prospective clients, depending on the content.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted the videos to showcase our work with scenarios that most employees could relate to. We wanted the videos to help us gain more business by tailoring the content toward clients’ needs.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

After performing and compiling our research, we decided we like that Sparkhouse is close in proximity. Not having to deal with a time difference was convenient, so we selected them.

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

Once we receive a request for a custom animated video, we submit a form to Sparkhouse, and they follow up for more information. We tell them what the logo is, the industry, the company description, due date, etc. From there, they create the videos for us.

What was your vendors' feedback process?

Whenever we need progress updates or have questions and concerns, we communicate via the online form and email. The Sparkhouse team typically follows up quickly with their response.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They always deliver the projects on time and can provide a fast turnaround even with limited notice, so the projects are completed never late.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Our teams have collaborated together great; I work directly with two of their teammates. There are some instances of misunderstandings because of online communication, but they always offer to set up meetings or talk on the phone.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their team is consistently helpful and professional, which is crucial for our time-sensitive projects. They handle our projects for important clients with urgency and responsiveness, which we appreciate.

Are there any areas for improvement?

We are in the process of updating our request form for these videos, and they’ve been accommodating. If our structure was improved, they could do the job even better.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the VP of sales and marketing for Gehr Industries, a manufacturer of wiring cable.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Sparkhouse?

We wanted to redevelop our three different e-commerce websites, adding lifestyle photography of our products and video elements in the process. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

After working with another vendor on the design and frontend development of the websites, Sparkhouse has helped build out the rest of the three sites. They provide photography and videography services, incorporating lifestyle photography of our products.

They also storyboarded four 60-90-second product explainer videos, using scripts we provided, to post to our sites and on YouTube. As part of that process, they found and helped select actors or models for both the videos and photos.

What is the team composition?

I mostly work with Torrey (Founder, Sparkhouse), as well as an assistant, and a marketing and art director.

How did you come to work with Sparkhouse?

We considered a few bids for the project and liked Sparkhouse the most, because their previous work was similar to what we were hoping to achieve with our sites.

How much have you invested with them?

We've probably invested between $25,000–$30,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We've been working with them since October 2017 and the work is ongoing. We're launching two websites next week [in August 2018] and then we'll start working on four more video projects with them.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Sparkhouse's deliverables have been phenomenal. They do a great job at selecting the right actors and bringing creativity to each video shoot. That whole process went a lot smoother than I imagined it would .

How did Sparkhouse perform from a project management standpoint?

They manage projects very well and have met all of our deadlines thus far. They're very collaborative and transparent in their approach. I never feel as though we've been left in the dark on anything.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I'm most impressed by their level of creativity. They've got a lot of talented people on their team and they've made our videos and photos looks amazing. They're very aware of the latest industry trends and what clients are looking for when they come to our websites, so they've provided a lot of valuable insight throughout the engagement.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I just suggest meeting with them and giving them a shot. The type of work they can deliver within specific timeframes is quite impressive, so we've enjoyed working with them 100%.