Sparkhouse

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the CEO of Response Mine Health- a digital marketing services firm focused on the enterprise health & wellness industries.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We had the opportunity to interview industry veteran and guru, Hank Blank. We needed an high end, well produced video of the 45 minute interview, at a convenient location. Sparkhouse helped us capture a fantastic interview in high definition.

What were your goals for this project?

Our goals for this project were top-notch, professional production values, including multiple cameras and access to not just an edited interview, but raw footage from which we could easily extract select quotes and sections for wide and various formats and distribution across several online channels.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We chose Sparkhouse from a recommendation from one of their clients based upon the reputation that they were high quality and high service.

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

We shot the video in one day with the guest and interviewer, over a three hour period. The shoot was efficient and well directed, allowing for retakes of critical sections as needed.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

Sparkhouse kept us in the loop on post-production and delivered the final product quickly and in the formats we needed.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

After some post production additions of the great video they captured, we deployed the content on LinkedIn, online paid media channels, snippets and sections to prospect and email lists. We feel like the audience engagement was high and the interview itself was a great success, helping raise our profile with the hospital market.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The project manager and our internal marketing team worked well together in getting what we needed. Sparkhouse was highly responsive to emails, questions and changes during the post production.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The highlight of working with Sparkhouse was their high level of service. They just made it easy for us.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Can’t think of a single thing that could have been easier or improved about this project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the director of marketing for one of the largest kiosk manufacturers in North America.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We hired Sparkhouse to produce an animated explainer video.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted a video that explained our Virtual Banking Expert solution. Our goal for this video is overall awareness about this product.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We used an RFP process based on the quality of work, budget, and timeline.

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

Our process started with a kickoff call so that Sparkhouse could get to know us, our business, and our goals. From there, we sent over all of our educational materials that were relevant to the solution and drafted a script ourselves. They then reviewed the script and re-worked it a little to change the length of time and voice to be more appropriate.

We worked with Sparkhouse to select a voice actor and background music, and they provided us with a color palette and artboard to approve. They also created an AV script, an animated still version of the script, and drafts of actual snippets of animation. We had visibility into the process and approval rights at every single step.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

They shared docs, milestones, and schedules, and held weekly phone calls.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re still in the early stages of deploying this video on a wide scale, but, so far, it has fully met our expectations and that of our clients and partners.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow was excellent. They communicated clearly via email, and everything on their end was efficient and transparent.

There was a large delay in the project, which was 100% our fault. Internally, we had parties get involved in the project halfway through—parties that were invited to be involved from the start and initially declined—which threw a big wrench in things. But, every time we figured things out internally, Sparkhouse was right there moving forward quickly and efficiently, offering advice and assistance to help us move along.

Also, there were times when we dragged our feet and had to go back on a few things like the voiceover and the script. They were extremely flexible, accommodating, and patient, and always provided clear timelines and milestones as things moved around.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The quality of their work and the consistency of their timelines were impressive. They're a smaller team, but you can tell that they're very dedicated and organized. They never come across as stressed.

Are there any areas for improvement?

On our end, yes there are. On Sparkhouse's end, I don’t think there are any.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the head of marketing for A Shoc, a modern energy drink created for today's active generation.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We hired them to create an exciting and engaging hype reel for us to show at each of our launch meetings and kick-off events.

What were your goals for this project?

We needed something that was high-energy and instantly conveyed what set our brand apart from any other product in our distributor’s portfolio.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

From my first phone conversation with Sparkhouse and subsequent team-to-team meeting, I could tell that they were listening to exactly what we needed and putting the right people on the project for us to achieve our goals. The energy level on their team is unparalleled and I've had confidence from day one that they were going to hustle to help us win with this project.

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

We kicked off with an in-depth ideation meeting and following up a week later with a meeting with Sparkhouse's chosen director, who came to the meeting prepared to ensure that we started off on the correct path for success.

What was your vendors' project management or feedback process?

We held phone calls and in-person meetings and we shared documents and texts. They did everything needed to ensure a steady flow of communication and productivity.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Their communication and involvement in our creative process gave us confidence that the outcome would be as anticipated.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

It was great. I always got instantaneous feedback on questions and the shared documents were the perfect way for us to all stay on the same page regardless of travel schedules and availability.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The amount of communication from every member of their team made me feel confident that we were moving forward every day to complete this project on time. Everyone was professional and reliable.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, we’re very satisfied.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Because of my background in video and my current position in marketing, I was tasked with finding a digital videography company. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Sparkhouse?

We hired Sparkhouse to create a trailer for our newest product features.

What were your goals for this project?

Our goal was to complete a one-minute trailer using preexisting stock footage in less than three weeks, all while meeting all required formats and specifications.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We interviewed and requested quotes from a few local companies, but after seeing Sparkhouse’s passion, portfolio, and quick turnaround times, we selected them for the project.  

Describe the project in detail.

The video used stock footage and a royalty-free soundtrack under a voiceover that gave guidance on the piece. It needed to portray the features of our new product without direct reference or marketing to our company and to work without sound. The director managed both of these requirements well, designing and delivering a fantastic product in multiple formats for visual and audio.

What was the team composition?

We worked directly with the company’s CEO and one of their directors.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are incredibly happy with the results. Not only did they develop a great video, but they displayed real passion for the project and did it all within a short amount of time. They applied their unique directorial insight to our idea and produced a piece that fit our guidelines and promoted features in a creative way.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Efficient communication and mutual understanding made each step of the process felt like a true collaboration. Sparkhouse kept us well informed with a steady stream of emails and scheduled calls, made sure to seek our approval for any changes, and notified us when an issue arose, or a draft was ready.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Sparkhouse remained open to all of our changes and feedback. They were more than happy to tackle new challenges as we identified more edits and requirements. 

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, they delivered high-caliber work.

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.