NextThought

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the director of business development at a learning design agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NextThought Studios?

We needed help developing learning and training programs for different clients, organizations, and state institutions.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We’ve been working with NextThoughtStudios in developing additional digital expertise focused on learning design and strategy. They’ve been our partner in several projects in which they provide storyline and video contributions to make our courses more dynamic. 

What is the team composition?

We’ve worked with 5–6 different members from their team, including a project coordinator, a video team, a creative staff, storyline developers, and a film and editing crew; it depends on the project. 

How did you come to work with NextThought Studios?

We’ve been working with them for about five years because they’re a local Oklahoma agency with national-caliber expertise. We chose them because they seemed like a great partner.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent around $200,000 with them so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in October 2016, and the engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They’re great collaborators, and they execute accordingly to the visions I have for what I want.

How did NextThought Studios perform from a project management standpoint?

We’ve been delighted with project management; they’re great at communicating with us and managing expectations. Additionally, their creative team is fantastic and always provides detailed outlines and project dates for our work, which allows us to know exactly when deliverables will be due. 

In terms of communication, we use email, project management tools, and meetings to discuss the project’s production.

What did you find most impressive about them? 

Their work in storylines has been a huge asset to the work that they’ve delivered, so their creative talent is outstanding. Also, they can understand and adapt to the broad array of client topics that we have.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They’ve always managed timeliness well, and when they say that they’re able to get work accomplished, they’ve been able to meet those deadlines, but I think that their team could improve in their queue time. 

Any advice for potential customers?

Allowing them to be part of your process to understand your vision is very helpful. Their team can quickly learn what you’re looking for, so the more you incorporate their expertise into the process, the better your product will be.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm a partner at House of Kaizen - a subscription growth agency

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We wanted to create a short documentary to commemorate our 20 years in business. This would be something we would share with current and former employees, clients, partners and friends and family.

SOLUTION

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

We looked at 7 different production companies and were looking for someone with remote shooting experience, as well as corporate documentary story telling experience.

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

Briefing / planning, question list, content gathering, preliminary interviews, interview subjects, video outline, production plan, interview scheduling, conducting interviews, reviewing rough cuts, providing feedback

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

We mostly worked with Joshua and Joel and both were very receptive to feedback, they listened to our requests and implemented changes quickly.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We had screenings of the videos and had many people tell us not only how great it was but specifically tell us how impressed they were with the production quality.

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

Most communication was over email but we did have several zoom calls as well. I'd describe them as generally laid back and easygoing, but they're always on top of everything. Deliverables are always delivered on time from their team unless our side specifically caused a delay and we were done ahead of schedule.

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

The ability to lead the story telling process and also working with Joshua and Joel.

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

Not really - if we were on a really short turnaround we probably would have needed more project management to keep us on schedule but that was not an issue on our project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a small start-up that provides various technology solutions to the retail and healthcare sectors. I am a Project Manager here and have been working in this role for 2 years.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We wanted to come up with a modern and engaging training program for retail associates that could provide bite-sized lessons where and when they were required. NextThought helped us develop an film and produce a series of interactive videos that blew away our clients.

SOLUTION

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

We went through a couple of companies when searching for help with video production. We immediately got a good feeling from NextThought. They understood exactly what we needed from them and worked closely with us to make sure they executed on our vision.

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

The videos target specific associate responsibilites and provide a tutorials on the specific point of sale actions required to deal with various customer requests. Additionally, we train soft skills by providing trial-and-error scenarios with branching interactivity, with correct actions resulting in positive outcomes and negative actions resulting in humorous but negative outcomes.

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

We worked with Max, Janelle, Joshua, and Madison all of whom were absolutely great to work with. Madison and Josh used their experience with interactive learning and video production to provide critical feedback on our concepts and scripts.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have rolled out the trainings with our clients who are using them live in stores to train associates. Also, we are in the process of marketing the trainings to additional brands.

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

We use Articulate 360 Review to view videos and make comments and that process has been largely seamless. NextThought have been consistent about setting expectations and meeting them despite what appears to be a demanding queue of projects.

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

We really appreciate that NextThought take the time to understand our goals and our client's goals. We always have excellent creative meetings where they will ask challenging questions of us that ultimately lead to the development of a killer product.

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

We've been thrilled with the partnership so far and hope to collaborate again in the near future.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the creative director for a global educational company, and we produce institutional educational products. We also work with consumer-based videos and media for our website. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NextThought Studios?

We needed help with the scalability of our international products. Specifically, we were looking for a company that could produce scalable content for us at a reasonable price. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

NextThought is creating scalable content for our team, and they’ve produced 300–400 animated videos so far. They’ve written scripts for some of the videos they made, but they also work on videos using the scripts we write. Their team handles all aspects of production, including video editing and audio mixing.

What is the team composition?

I’ve worked with a producer, a creative director, and a head of sales. The producer is our main point of contact. 

How did you come to work with NextThought Studios?

I looked for production companies, and I cold-called NextThought. We started working on some test projects, and we expanded our relationship from there. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in January 2020, and it’s ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

NextThought is one of our top go-to vendors for creative work. They’re also competitive with their price.

How did NextThought Studios perform from a project management standpoint?

They do an excellent job of making sure they hit our deadlines. Additionally, they’re very flexible when it comes to turnaround times. We mainly collaborate through Google Suite. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

NextThought pushes their work to the next level, and they understand our needs when it comes to the actual projects themselves. They’re also able to deliver from a volume standpoint. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

We had some issues with a project when they were undergoing internal changes, but they quickly addressed our concerns. Other than that, they’ve been on top of everything.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be upfront and let them use their creative judgment to push the project forward. They have a good creative understanding of the product. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the project manager for the Content Team at a curriculum company. We create social studies and science curriculum for K-12 schools nationally and internationally.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We are revising our middle school social studies titles and wanted to add more video content into our online platform as part of our revision for these titles. We wanted to take existing text from our student text books and turn them into engaging videos that could be shown at the start of a unit to help engage students on lessons that would follow for that unit.

The goal was to make the student text come alive and feel more engaging for students on our online platform.

SOLUTION

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

We looked at a total of 5 video vendors before choosing Next Thought. The ultimate deciding factor for us was that they appeared to have a really streamlined process in place for implementation and feedback. We were going to be reviewing a lot of videos, so project management was a huge deciding factor for us.

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

My team had come prepared with samples, materials and an expectation of timeline to our initial meeting with their Head of Sales, so everything after that was pretty easy. We had a kickoff meeting where our review team met their core team of project leads.

At that meeting we talked more about the project in detail and got to see early samples of video styling and mood board options. We talked through process steps for the project which included spreadsheets with incredibly easy steps to follow to understand where a video was in the process and links to relevant content (Google doc script, Wipster video review link).

We had a couple of rounds of mood boarding that we had to work out internally, so Next Thought got started working on script development at that same time. We worked in batches to move through the large number of videos we had requested.

Their team revised and made our base text more appropriate for a video script and plugged in existing image assets as well as found other image and video assets to use in the scripts. Once script approval was set, they moved quickly into video production development phases.

Using the project spreadsheet, we had easy access to review those videos and would do so whenever their project lead would reach out and let us know they were ready via email. We reviewed videos in a tool called Wipster that our review team thought was super easy to use.

We had a couple of rounds of revision and agreed upon number of revision hours. While we went past those revision hours, they were flexible with our requests and made it clear when we'd reached our cap. Final files were easy to download and retrieve once a video was approved/completed.

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

It was a bit of a weird scenario for us due mostly to timing as their Head of Production was out on maternity leave so we worked pretty exclusively through most of the process with their Creative Director. Assuming their Creative Director doesn't normally have too much customer facing responsibilities outside of maybe initial mood boarding and some production feedback stages, they were very easy to work with and tried to keep our team on track to hit our deadlines.

The feedback process on scripts was handled through Google Docs. Comments were added and completed as they were addressed. The feedback process on videos was handled through Wipster. Our team would add comments to each other and then reconcile any competing comments in a final comment to their production team.

Videos went through at least two rounds of revisions. Like I mentioned, they were flexible with us if we needed more rounds of revision as the content in these videos was important to be getting right. Feedback on sticking to deadlines, asset acquisition, and other issues that came up were mostly handled through email.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We haven't completed the project to it's entirety yet but we are wrapping it up this week. I'd say at least internally, the project was a success as we're using Next Thought for two additional projects: Spanish translated versions of these videos for this current project and a second video lesson project.

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

We were provided a timeline document at the beginning of the project but we were always a bit off due to some editorial needs on our end that came in kind of late. They were good about trying to push us to get back on track throughout the whole process which we really appreciated, though I wish we maybe had a live timeline that stayed up to date with our shifting dates OR a weekly reminder that mentioned deadlines that needed to be hit by certain days that week to keep our review team on track a bit better.

Asset acquisition was managed in a live spreadsheet which I appreciated but reconciling missing/incorrect asset links or additional assets that might have been missed being documented when handed over for acquisition was a little confusing. It was unclear if I should tag someone in the spreadsheet or send an email.

I almost always did both to make sure I was covering my bases. Most of our correspondences throughout the process were by email which worked well at the beginning. Emails had clear messaging and actions to take. Nearing the end of the project there were a few different email chains that got a bit confusing on our end as requests became more minute and specific. Thankfully, we really like most of the process and tools overall though and have ideas we've come up with internally on how to improve this part of the process for future projects.

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

They were super flexible with us and made it clear that they wanted to make sure we were getting what we wanted out of these videos. Like I mentioned before, project management was a huge requirement for us. We needed a team that could make sure we stayed on track and made the review process easy for our team from scripts through final production.

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

I think we could tighten up communication -- especially towards the end of the project where smaller, more specific inquiries needed to be sorted out. I think some of those small one-off questions could have been addressed more quickly through a Slack Connect channel.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the national sales trainer for National Group Marketing, and I train over 3,000 sales agents.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NextThought Studios?

Whenever we reached out to prospective clients, we told them the same story repeatedly — it was inefficient. We wanted our agents to provide an accurate and consistent representation of what we had to offer, no matter their skill level.

I needed to get our message across, and I thought video was the best medium. We needed help in video production.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

NextThought provided us with video production services. I had the direction that I wanted to go for the video, but they told me it wouldn’t be the best course of action. They advised what would be ideal to do for our situation, and I agreed and followed their lead. 

They then produced our explainer video — it provided an accurate explanation of how our products worked. We had a 17-minute script, and they condensed and edited that down to nine minutes. We worked together in editing the script.  

What is the team composition?

I worked with Max (Head of Sales), Janelle (Head of Video Production), and a producer.

How did you come to work with NextThought Studios?

A colleague recommended them. 

How much have you invested with them?

We spent $6,000–$6,500. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from November 2020–April 2021. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

One of our agents field-tested the video and used it seven times — he made seven sales in a row. The video’s conversion rate was very high, and it received positive feedback from our agents. Even our newer agents who didn’t have any experience selling our products made sales.

However, we didn’t keep any statistics beyond that. We wanted a video to help us sell our product, and it successfully did that. 

One of the comments we consistently received was praise for the video’s professional quality. The video had a premium feel. In addition, the video cut our presentation time from 65 minutes to 35 minutes. 

How did NextThought Studios perform from a project management standpoint?

NextThought was great at project management. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

NextThought’s experience set them apart. I didn’t have to explain what I needed — they knew what I needed better than me.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything. They hit every target for me.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Do your part — make sure you submit your script and feedback on time. If you don’t, the project will be on a standstill.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the head of corporate communications for Gaylor College at the University of Oklahoma.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NextThought Studios?

We needed someone to provide us with video production services for a documentary project.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

NextThought Studios is providing me with their video production services for a national documentary series on Netflix called Eyes of the Storm. They’re helping us with their ability to look at a problem or educational issue, and develop effective and creative solutions.

What is the team composition?

I’ve been working with almost half of the people from their video production unit and several of their management staff.

How much have you invested with them?

So far, we’ve spent over $100,000 USD.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working together for March 2012, and the partnership is still ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I don’t have any specific metrics, but I’ve won multiple awards for projects that they’ve helped me work on.

How did NextThought Studios perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management is absolutely superb, and probably one of the best I’ve ever worked with.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We’re impressed with their creativity and honesty.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything they could improve on and with all the companies that I’ve worked with for over 35 years, they’re the best out of all of them.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the Director of Marketing & Communications for the Francis Tuttle school district. We offer hands-on training in a variety of career fields with the goal of producing a qualified workforce to meet the workforce needs of the communities we serve.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We offer 30+ programs. Our goal was to have high quality program videos produced so prospective students could see what it is like to be a Francis Tuttle student, while at the same time showcasing our facilities.

SOLUTION

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

NextThought has a great reputation. After researching other companies and reviewing portfolios NextThought was the clear choice for us.

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

Each program video consists of program shots with students collaborating with instructors. We also felt it was important to have current and former students interviewed to provide a testimonial of their individual experiences The process was very easy.

We began with a kick-off meeting to discuss our goals. NextThought came back to us after they reviewed our goals internally to present a creative brief for the project. From there it was easy to schedule the shoots. The NextThought staff took care of working directly with instructors and students in preparation for shoot days.

Once the video work was complete it normally took about a couple of weeks to receive a first draft to review. Requesting edits to drafts was an easy and seamless process. Turnaround time to get a final video was quick.

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

I have worked with a number of people at NextThought. Max, Janelle, Joel, Josh and Keaton all have be awesome. The feedback process is easy and the team is always very receptive to feedback.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our students, prospective students, and staff love the videos.

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

A project manager (Producer) was assigned from start to finish. Joel did a fantastic job keeping in touch and had excellent follow through. As for the review process, using the Wipster tool was easy. I could review the video, make comments within the video, and submit changes. It is a great digital tool and made the process seamless.

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

You can tell they love what they do. As a customer I appreciated how open they are to collaborating when it comes to creative development. I felt like a true part of the process and my input was valued.

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

No, NextThought has been awesome and we are looking forward to working with them on future projects.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Director Of Photography

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We've worked with NextThought for a number of years on various projects, including educational and training videos. They have always been creative, responsive, and professional in our dealings.

SOLUTION

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

We've worked with NextThought on a variety of projects over the years, and look forward to continuing our relationship.

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

NextThought has a powerful pre-production to post-production workflow with capable staff to support.

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

We've been fortunate to work with many people at NextThought. The team is always eager to work and has creative solutions.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We've completed multiple videos working with NextThought.

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

NextThought has a very streamlined approach to video production and was able to meet our deadlines.

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

This company is innovative and inspires us to push the envelope!

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

There's room to improve every process, I look forward to seeing how NextThought continues to innovate and elove!