Because you're reading this post, I assume you've decided to hire a company to create an animated explainer video for you. How do you pick the right company and what should it cost you?

1. How much should
you pay for an
ANIMATED
VIDEO?

2. Because you’re reading this post, I assume you’ve decided to hire a
company to create an animated explainer video for you. How do you
pick the right company and what should it cost?
At Buzz Animated Videos, I lead a team of talented scriptwriters, artists,
and animators producing simple, informative and fun explainer
videos. I’ve run my marketing communications company for 25 years
and have written and produced scripts for videos, television and radio. I
know first hand what it takes to work with a team to deliver a quality result
and I’m happy to share some tips and insights to help you filter out the
differences.

3. All video animation companies follow the same basic
production process.
Discovery – Scriptwriting – Storyboards – Animation – Delivery
DISCOVERY SCRIPTWRITING1 2

4. STORY BOARD ANIMATION DELIVERY
But the price they charge is based on so many factors, it’s hard to
compare and make up your mind.
.
3 4 5

5. Your google search for animated videos turns up a host
of choices. It’s fascinating to me how many companies
are spending big money on google AdWords. Then they
spend more retargeting me with their ads after I leave
their website. I only mention this because they have to
charge more for their videos to cover this cost.
As you do your research, you’ll find animated video
production companies fall into three basic categories
and price ranges

6. THE “VIDEO MILLS”
Prices range from $500 to $2,000

7. THE “VIDEO MILLS”
What to look for
These are most likely “off shore” companies that churn out lots of videos. Unfortunately
many produce videos that are hard to understand, boring and not something you’d want
to be the first impression of your company.
When you visit their website, look for misspelled words or language that indicates English is
probably a second language. If you speak with them, you’ll know how well they
communicate in English. But be aware that many have an English speaking front man
who sells you. But then, they hand you off to a non-English speaker and good luck
getting revisions done via emails.
A lot of these companies use stock characters and set scenes to animate your
video. They don’t draw and create unique elements just for you. As a result, your video
looks like everybody else and gets lost in the sea of sameness out there.
Some companies make you give them your email address before they let you “View our
Pricing”. Really? Brace yourself for an onslaught of “Buy us, Buy us!” automated
emails. It’s your call, but I’d suggest you move on.

8. THE “VIDEO MILLS”
What to avoid
Don’t hire a company that speaks English as their second language. Do
you want to have to translate your ideas and preferences to them so
they can write your script?
Many encourage you to write your own script. Please don’t. You are
too close to your company and products. It’s not about the features and
benefits you think are important. It’s about what your prospect thinks,
feels and wants. That’s why you need an experienced company and an
expert storyteller.

9. THE “BOUTIQUE” FIRMS
Prices range from $5,000 to $20,000+

10. THE “BOUTIQUE” FIRMS
What to look for
When you visit their website, it’s obvious these companies turn out high
quality videos. They tend to work for the “Big Boys” and have Fortune
500 companies adorning their portfolios. They have really nice offices in
major US cities and lots of experienced people under one roof. (Read:
very high rent and a big payroll every month).

11. THE “BOUTIQUE” FIRMS
What to avoid
Obviously there’s a place for big budget animated videos. If being
associated with top name brands is important to your success, by all
means, pull out all the bucks.

12. THE “WORKHORSE” SHOPS
Prices range from $2,000 to $5,000

13. THE “WORKHORSE” SHOPS
What to look for
You can tell a lot when you visit their websites. You’re looking for
companies that will create a custom, high quality animated video.
Does their portfolio demonstrate they know how to make an animated
video that –
1) Grabs your attention and doesn’t let go
2) The script is compelling, concise and clear.
3) At the end, you know exactly what the company, product or service
does and why someone will want to take action.

14. THE “WORKHORSE” SHOPS
What to look for
If so, it makes sense to get in touch to learn more. I recommend a
phone call so you can learn the following:
• Is their production process well defined and does it clearly explain the details
concerning revisions and timelines.
• Are their clients raving fans and glad to tell the world about it?
• Is their pricing simple, straightforward and affordable? Make sure there are no
hidden fees or surprises.
• When you call, are you talking to the founder, owner or team leader…not a
sales rep or “account manager”?
• Is it obvious they know their stuff by the questions they ask about your business?
Your best bet is to hire a company that understands marketing principles and
animated video production.

15. THE “WORKHORSE” SHOPS
What to avoid
If a company in this price range doesn’t demonstrate these
important elements, I suggest you keep looking.

16. CONCLUSION
I hope these insights help you navigate your way toward hiring a company
that will make a video you love. The most important thing I’d like you to take
away from this blog post is:
An animated explainer video can and should be a good investment. Do your
research and find a company qualified to produce a high quality video that
helps you attract prospects and win new customers. See Our Pricing