Great Things Studios

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Acquisition's Editor of Oxford University Press Canada

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Oxford University Press is the largest university press in the world, publishing for three primary markets: research, education, and English language teaching. OUP's mission is to create world-class academic and educational resources and make them available as widely as possible.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Great Things Studios to accomplish?

• To create top quality educational videos to accomapny a language learning textbook series.
• Recruit the talent and scout the locations according to our needs.
• Provide a turnkey solution for every step of the project, from pre-production to post-production.

SOLUTION

How did you find Great Things Studios?

Online Search

Why did you select Great Things Studios over others?

• Close to my geographic location
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned
• Excellent service and professional communication.

How many teammates from Great Things Studios were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

Pre-production service including comprehensive needs analysis. Video production service camera crew and set-up and lighting. Creation of 20 videos varying between 15 and 30 minutes in length. Casting and actors inlcuding recruitment, headshots and demo reels. Scouting and rental of locations according to our needs. Make up on set. Post-production editing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Delivering top quality video production according to our specs, within our budget and timeline.

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

The GTS team gave us a very professional service from the first contact right the way through to final delivery of the videos. They are responsive and efficient with an excellent eye for details. They care about what they are doing, they care about their clients, and it shows in everything they do. 

Nothing goes perfectly in the publishing world, so you need a partner you can count on to be creative, flexible and always solution focused. The GTS team delivered our project on time and on budget, and they exceeded our expectations with the high quality of the actors and videos. We have since worked with them a second time and plan to continue this relationship.

What was your primary form of communication with Great Things Studios?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

Video production is a competitive world in which the Great Things Studios team distinguish themeselves from the competition in several ways: - Everyone on their team gives their best for every project, they provide a profesional, reliable and high quality service that ensures a successful outcome for the client. 

The Great Things Studios team offered a very personalized service. They do a lot to validate the client's needs before starting a new project, but also continues validating in real time on location. That's super reassuring for a client like us, because it is very hard to know (in advance) how successful a studio will be at interpreting your vision. - Working with GTS is hassle free, straightforward, enjoyable and easy. They have a great team with a super work ethic and live up to their name!

Are there any areas for improvement or something The Great Things Studios could have done differently?

GTS met and exceeded our expectations. Nothing could have been better!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Production Coordinator for a Gaming Development company. I work at the Montreal studio.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios?

We hired them to shoot and edit our first marketing video for our studio's recruitment initiative.

SOLUTION

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

N/A - This decision was made before I started at the company.

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

We were looking to create a video that can properly portray the young and dynamic environment of our studio. Many of our current employees come from outside the country so we knew that our video also needed to appeal to international viewers who are willing to re-locate to Montreal, Canada.

So we planned for a 2-day shoot. One that was focused in-office and the other in-city. The team at Great Things were really flexible when it came to impromptu re-scheduling and sudden on-site changes. They adapted to my requests swiftly and efficiently.

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

2 videographer and 2 editors.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our video is currently the fastest growing video on the company Youtube channel. It is actually 3rd most popular and is projected to be the most popular video in the next year. Articles and blogs have also been written about our recruitment videos.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

During pre-production, I would e-mail their team Word documents and storyboards to outline my vision of the final product. They took my ideas into consideration during shooting day. During post-production, we utilized frame.io which was an effective tool for us to communicate edits. Sometimes when the drafts were coming in slowly, they would e-mail me the reason why.

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

I was mostly impressed with how quickly they adapted to my requests and were quick to understand my vision as I explain it to them. It was awesome!

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

Maybe having a more formal/direct way to communicate pre-production ideas. They weren't always super responsive to my initial emails. During post-production, my frame.io comments weren't always completely addressed so in subsequent drafts so I would have to repeat myself.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the digital solutions and technologies VP for Cyient in the digital business unit.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios?

We had just finished an implementation of new IoT warehouse tracking system with a customer and we were looking to film and edit a testimonial video about the user experience.

SOLUTION

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

I had done some prior work with Great Things Studio and had a great experience so I came back to them for a 2nd time. this project was larger and more complex.

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

We had a kick-off meeting where they went through our specific needs and we discussed the narrative and the plan for the day of filming. It was a complex shoot only because there were many areas of the shop to setup filming and many short testimonial interviews, plus some other dialogue to film. It was a lot of filming for 1 day but they came prepared and we finished the shoot exactly on time. During editing, they ensured our feedback was considered every step of the way, and the end result came out great!

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

1 resource during planning, there were 2 onsite during filming, and 1 main resource did the editing

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The final video just finished and isn't yet published on social media channels, however, the people who saw it internally to our company were very impressed by the production value and professional editing.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Very effective, the GTS team was extremely responsive to our needs during the whole project.

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

The end to end capabilities and their use of great tools. They came very prepared during the filming, and knew exactly what to do during editing. They showed great adaptability during the whole process.

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

none really, great work from the GTS team

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Director of Content at LifeSpeak Inc, a digital health and wellness platform for employees.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios, and what were your goals?

We hired GTS to shoot and edit a series of videos featuring health and wellness experts. The videos would be available to our end users across North America and overseas. We needed a company that was bilingual (FR/EN) and who could create good quality videos on schedule and on budget.

SOLUTION

How did you select Great Things Studios and what were the deciding factors?

We looked at online reviews (Clutch for example) and had a couple of calls with the team to determine whether they would be a good fit. GTS were very fast to respond, they presented us with a budget that fit our needs and they had experience with studio 'talking head' style shoots.

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

We had several Zoom meetings to discuss the look, what the background would look like, set dec etc. The GTS team recommended a studio and did all of the on-the-ground prep. Our team is in Toronto and this was our first shoot in Montreal. They offered us a turn-key service where we were able to just walk in and shoot. The production days both went smoothly, and on schedule.

The makeup artist they booked was wonderful and the GTS team (N'tchi and Jean) were a pleasure to work with from start to finish. After the shoot, we worked with them, on reviewing the edits with communication through the Frame.io platform. They also transcribed all of our videos. Everything was delivered on schedule and on budget according the deadlines we had set.

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

We worked with Jean and N'tchi who were both very communicative throughout. They took all feedback from us and everything went well.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Working with GTS, we have been able to increase the number of French videos on our platform which has been great for our French-language end users.

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

The GTS team is very smooth to work with in terms of communication. We used email, Google Drive (for call sheets), and occasionally Zoom.

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

Great Things Sudios' team completed the platform well and quickly, and they also worked with a smile. They are just a pleasure to work with. When we were unsure about the size of one studio, they took us on a virtual tour of a larger space. N'tchi sent us a video of his tour, explaining everything as he went. We also had to ship set dec to the office in advance, they accepted this and transported it to studio for us.

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

They are busy and sometimes email requests take a couple of days longer to be addressed, but this had no impact on the quality of our project or resulted in any missed deadlines. Also, suggest that if possible any new editors are added to the post production end, they let us know in advance.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

We’re the largest personal finance company in Canada. We handle mortgage, auto, in-store retail financing, and more. Our business is not a bank; we’re a lending company. I’m the head of modernization. That involved implementing new technologies and corporate initiatives. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Great Things Studio?

We were looking for a creative way to disseminate information across the 260 branches nationwide. It was important for our innovation team to keep our branches up to date without putting them in an email memo that no one would read. We were looking for something more creative.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

After we provided the content about our business, they really helped us create a brand for the team. At their recommendation, we created a video series using in-house talent. They created personas for each individual as well as a format that is now widely recognized across the company. They’re delivered as funny, entertaining updates, so people on the team look forward to seeing them. 

To create one, we first decide on our core messages. Then, we work with their team to turn those messages into a script. Some of the internal jargon and jokes come from us, but the majority of content structure and graphics are handled by them. After that, we move toward shooting.

We set up the set in our office building, and their team comes to us to film and direct it. During that process, they can stop takes and add new elements to enhance the final product on the fly. Then, they edit the footage. That involves them piecing it together and making the changes that we ask for before sending it out to the company. We disseminate the video in a sharable format internally. 

What is the team composition?

On-site, we have three of their team members working at all times because we run at least three cameras. There are an additional two people that we work with on editing. They’ve also offered us additional resources.

How did you come to work with Great Things Studio?

We were looking for a grassroots partner, so we did an RFP through our procurement team. I met with them personally and chose them based on their creative direction. We had a solid interview with them which convinced us to their team instead of larger companies that we had existing relationships with. 

How much have you invested with them?

In total, we’ve spent close to six figures on their services. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in late 2016, and we’re still actively working together. Depending on our budget, we use their services at least once each year.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

This is a very innovative, engaging way to get information across. I’ve never heard of another company doing this. It’s funny, so viewers can laugh while they learn about what we’re doing. They’ve incorporated so many creative elements into the work that we would’ve never thought of before. People across the company look forward to the release of the videos, oftentimes remembering my face from appearing in them.   

How did Great Things Studio perform from a project management standpoint?

As of now, we communicate primarily over email. We set up a date to overview our ideas, create the script, tweak it, set a filming date, and finish with editing. Our team is able to give feedback on their editing platform, so that’s a pretty seamless process.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re a super professional, creative company with endless great ideas that shape our ability to communicate this information. Their hands-on approach really stands out. Whenever we need anything, they’re available to pop into the office. They don’t have a big, corporate feel at all. To They’re caring and meticulous about our personal situation, which is really what we value with them. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I’ve never received any negative feedback on one of our videos. I can’t think of anything significant right now.  

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

If you want someone to harness your ideas and turn them into something powerful, especially within corporate messaging, I’d recommend them. They take your ideas and turn them into something great.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a training advisor for a healthcare organization within the Montreal region. We’re composed of four different hospital sites.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Great Things Studios?

We wanted a video from senior management to warmly welcome new employees. Using Great Things Studios, we created that video.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Before filming, they questioned about our goals. We discussed exactly how we foresaw the duration, creating a storyboard of the product so they could correctly visualize our needs. During the video production, they followed our script and plans from our initial meetings.

After the shoot, they used an electronic platform to share their progress. On that software, we could enter comments directly on different parts of the video. Basically, that allowed for ongoing feedback throughout the products. With that, they were able to make edits based on our requests.

What is the team composition?

During filming and throughout the rest of the project, there were at least 2–3 people working on the project. We had a chief filmmaker and his partner working with us pretty consistently.

How did you come to work with Great Things Studios?

We did a benchmark of video producers within the region. In our search, we noticed that they worked on a video for one of our foundations. The foundation said they highly recommended them as partners and came at an affordable price. That led us to choose Great Things Studios.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent about $5,000 on this project.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in January 2019, and the work was completed in March 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We often receive positive feedback from our new hires, who feel especially welcomed and excited to start working here. That was our central purpose for creating the video, so the deliverables met our expectations.  

How did Great Things Studios perform from a project management standpoint?

They were very rapid and responsive in their editing process. Through their collaborative editing software, they were also very organized.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re a very easy company to work with. We’re very satisfied with their work.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Sometimes, we had to repeat ourselves to get them to react to certain editing comments. But, overall, everything went very well.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be clear with their team.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Communications and Trade Marketing Manager at Amcor Capsules, the manufacturer of capsules and closures for wine, spirits and sparkling wine. Amcor Capsules is a division of Amcor, the global packaging leader.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios?

We were looking for a video production company that would help us produce several videos - customer testimonial videos - that were part of our global advertising campaign.

What were your goals for this project?

We showcase the videos on our Social Media and during our customer presentations. The impact we anticipated were increased Social Media impressions and a growing number of leads.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We briefed 4 agencies and finally chose Great Things Studios as their reply to the brief was most creative and showed a great deal of professionalism. They were also easy to communicate with and seemed to be very flexible and open-minded.

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

Great Things Studios made sure we both understood the goal of the video in the same way, they wrote the script, they did the filming and production. They were very flexible and willing to travel to film in different locations. My role in the project was to make sure the goal of the video was achieved, also to make sure the tone and style is in line with our brand.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Several people were involved. During filming, usually 2-3 members of Great Things Studios were present. The editing was done in a very efficient way, Great Things Studios use an online software where you can insert your comments directly into the video, which saves everyone a great deal of time. No need to download different versions of the video, everything is done online. This way giving feedback is very efficient and fast.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Every time we post one of the customer testimonial videos on our Social Media, the impressions grow significantly. The feedback from the stakeholders was very positive. They commented on the videos as very interesting and professional.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Communication is very easy with Great Things Studios, they are extremely responsive. They are always on time, respect deadlines, meetings, never rescheduled any previously planned filming or meeting.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Video production is their passion, and it is visible in the work they do. It is work that has been done with passion. They care about every single detail. I've never felt any unnecessary pressure from their side on the number of comments or feedback, they've always been extremely helpful. This is what distinguishes them from other vendors I've worked with.

Are there any areas for improvement?

None so far!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Host and founder of the online series called Kind Time!

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios?

Hired as the video production team for our season two Kind Time interviews.

What were your goals for this project?

To entice other to share kindness after seeing our kind interviews.

SOLUTION

How did you select Great Things Studios?

Found their professional website online. Spoke with the team and was so happy to work with them!!

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

The Great Things Studios team set up a 3 point camera interview set for the Kind Time interviews. Lighting was brilliant, as was sound! We filmed 8 interviews over the entire day process.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

My Kind Time volunteers were absolutely amazed of Great Things Studios! As was I!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Certainly, the interviews will be released in the next few weeks on Youtube and Instagram: @pamela_pagano

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Absolutely wonderful! Great Things Studios interacted very well and respectfully with the volunteers and their family.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their professionalism and kindness!

Are there any areas for improvement?

Nothing needs to be improved, the are perfection!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Vice President and marketing officer of the company. I participate in the videos that GTS shoots and prepares for us We distribute and manufacture packaging machinery.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios?

Video shoots of our packaging machines

What were your goals for this project?

To educate and promote oyr machines.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

By interview

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

Each video is of a different machine or product to be posted on our website and shared with potential and actual customers.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Repeat means the first videos were well done so we did it again and again and plan more video shoots as new machines are added to the lineup.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are planning more video shoots. 

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

There was excellent communication and understanding of what was needed. 

What did you find most impressive about this company?

So easy to deal with; they were patient and had a clear understanding of what the outcome should be.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Healthcare institution. I work as a Learning & Develoment Specialist who is responsible for the orientation program of our new hires.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Great Things Studios?

Video for our orientation day.

What were your goals for this project?

A warm welcome from our CEO to all new hires.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Through word of mouth. The vendor also did video production for our hospital's foundation.

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

3 minute video showing footage of our 4 hospital sites. The short video captured the essence and warmth of our organization through the graceful flow of the glimpses of our employees and patients.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Great Things Studio is a group of professional, reliable, quick and talented people! They answered our needs quickly and with quality. The platform they used to receive feedback worked well.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They achieved spot-on our expectation for an orientation video to represent our healthcare organization.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Very easy to work with and good energy from their team.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I was impressed by the quality of their work and response time.

Are there any areas for improvement?

On our end, we were satisfied with the work.