How to choose the best video production and animation company
- Establish your primary objectives
Before you start searching the Internet for video production companies or businesses in your local area that specialise in corporate video and animation services, establish your primary objectives. Create a clear content brief, which outlines key goals and targets. Think about how you want to use video content and film and what you want to achieve. Are you launching a new business or a brand new product range? Do you want to introduce your brand to new customers or expand an existing client base? Are you eager to use video content to enhance brand messaging or educate your audience? Are you interested in video content to attract top talent to your team, or do you want to create video content for events? Is your main aim to market products and services and up-sell promotions to turn browsers into buyers?
Once you have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish and the type of content you are looking for, you can focus your search on video production and animation companies that specialise in the relevant services and genres.
- Figure out your budget and preferred timeline
Most businesses have a budget for video content. Before you start contacting companies or setting up consultations and meetings, set a budget. Analyse your finances and work out how much you want to spend. Your budget may influence your decisions in terms of the company you choose and the services you select.
When you have a budget in mind, you can gain an understanding of what different companies can offer and compare quotes and prices. It is always beneficial to look for businesses and agencies that offer the best value for money rather than opting for the lowest price. You want to ensure that your budget stretches as far as possible.
As well as financial constraints, some companies have timelines in mind when searching for a production agency. If you need content quickly, and you can’t wait, you’ll need to make sure that the company you choose can deliver products and services within the desired timeframe.
- Research video production companies
Researching video production companies will enable you to compile a list of options. Use the Internet to find companies in your local area, read verified reviews online and ask for recommendations from other business owners or contacts. Check ratings and testimonials and take a look at company websites and social media profiles and feeds.
If you have a shortlist, it’s an excellent idea to find out more about the companies. You can do this by:
- Following them online and looking at the content they create and share with followers
- Browsing galleries and viewing portfolios online
- Looking at case studies
- Reading about the company’s backstory, culture, and values
- Setting up a phone call, video call, or face-to-face meeting
- Look for companies that achieve results
Video production and animation companies specialise in producing high-quality video content. While it is useful to view videos and watch showreels, it’s crucial to remember that video content that looks incredible doesn’t necessarily deliver results. Look for companies that have a proven track record in making a positive difference to their clients. If you want to use professional videos or animations to drive traffic to your website or convert leads and increase sales, for example, focus your search on agencies that have experience in helping businesses to achieve these key objectives.
When you visit websites and talk to representatives, look or ask for information that supports claims and check case studies and examples of previous work.
- Choose a company that has expertise in the relevant industry
Every business is different and one company may be looking for something completely different from another in terms of video production services and solutions. When you consider businesses to work with, look for a company that has expertise within your industry and a proven track record. You want the company to offer services that will make a difference to your business by targeting the right customers, solving common industry problems, and providing industry-specific solutions.
Video content is diverse and versatile and can be used in several ways. A legal firm or healthcare business, for example, may have a very different brief from a toy company or a brand that sells pet food or children’s clothing. As a customer, you want to find a company that will cater to your needs and helps you to achieve your goals.
- Understand the importance of good customer service
If you are a client looking for video production services, it’s understandable to think about results and the quality of content, but it’s also important to factor in customer service and support. Look for a video production and animation company that offers personalised, tailored services and a team that takes the time to get to know clients and understand their needs. As the customer, you want to be able to contact the company if you have questions or concerns and you want to ensure that you feel valued and that the people you work with respect your requirements and preferences. Many business owners also want to play an active role in discussions about content ideas. Some companies may encourage client interaction and input more than others.
When you meet with representatives or arrange calls, ask questions, get to know more about the company, and delve deeper into how the arrangement will work and what you can expect. Here are some good questions to ask during the initial phase:
- Who will manage my project?
- How and when can I contact you?
- What kinds of services are available, and is everything done in-house?
- How much input can I have?
- Can I suggest changes or edits if I’m not 100% happy?
- Will I have access to a dedicated account or project manager?
- Find a company that wants the best for your business
If you have ambitions for your business, you want the video production company you work with to share your passion and go the extra mile to help you hit targets and reach the dizzy heights. Communicate openly and spend time getting to know company owners and their teams before you decide who you want to work with.
