Explainer Video Company Showdown: 5 Factors to Consider Before Hiring

You know you need an explainer Video Company to simplify your product or service, but a quick search reveals dozens of companies promising to deliver. How do you choose the right partner? Picking the wrong one can lead to budget overruns, missed deadlines, and a video that doesn’t actually explain anything.

This guide will give you a clear framework for evaluating and comparing explainer video companies. By focusing on these five key factors, you’ll be able to confidently hire a team that can turn your complex idea into a compelling, effective video.

The Quick Answer: What is the Most Important Thing to Look For?

While every factor is important, the most crucial thing to look for is a company that takes the time to understand your business goals first. A great explainer video isn’t just about animation; it’s a strategic tool designed to achieve a specific business objective, whether that’s boosting conversions, reducing support calls, or increasing brand awareness.

5 Factors to Consider Before You Hire

Here are the five non-negotiable factors you should evaluate when choosing an explainer video company.

1. The Portfolio: Quality and Variety

Look beyond the “best of” reel. Request to see a few full-length videos they’ve created for clients similar to your business.
Check for a variety of styles. Can they do both 2D animation and motion graphics? Do they offer character-driven narratives as well as more abstract concepts? A diverse portfolio indicates versatility.
Does the work feel original? Look for a unique visual style and storytelling voice, not just a copy of popular trends.

2. The Process: Transparency and Collaboration

Ask about their production process from start to finish. A good Video Company will have a clear, step-by-step workflow that includes strategy, scriptwriting, storyboarding, animation, and sound design.
What are the points of feedback? A well-defined process includes multiple opportunities for you to review and provide feedback, ensuring you’re a partner, not just a client.
Who will be your main point of contact? A single project manager can streamline communication and prevent misinterpretations.

3. The Team: Expertise and Experience

Are they a one-person shop or a full-service team? A complete team with a dedicated scriptwriter, animator, and project manager often delivers a more polished, cohesive final product.
What is their experience in your industry? While not always essential, a team that understands the nuances of your market will be better equipped to write a script that resonates with your target audience.

4. The Price: Value, Not Just Cost

Don’t just compare the bottom line. A significantly lower price often means corners are being cut on scriptwriting, custom artwork, or sound design.
Ask for a transparent breakdown of costs. Is music licensing included? Are there extra fees for revisions? A transparent quote helps you understand what you’re actually paying for.
Focus on the return on investment (ROI). A higher-quality video that drives more sales is a better investment than a cheap one that gets ignored.

5. The Communication: Responsiveness and Personality

How quickly do they respond to your initial inquiry? This is a good indicator of how they’ll handle communication during the project.
Do they listen to your ideas and ask thoughtful questions? A great partner will challenge you and offer new perspectives, not just say “yes” to everything you suggest.
Do you feel a good rapport? You’ll be working closely with this team, so a positive working relationship is key.

A Common Pitfall: Hiring on Price Alone

The biggest mistake businesses make is choosing the cheapest option. A low-cost provider might seem like a good deal, but it often leads to a generic, uninspired video that fails to communicate your message effectively. This not only wastes your budget but can also damage your brand’s credibility.

Final Verdict: Choose a Partner, Not Just a Provider

Choosing an explainer video company is about more than just finding a team that can animate. It’s about finding a partner who understands your brand, your audience, and your goals. By carefully evaluating these five factors, you can make a confident decision that leads to a video that not only looks great but also delivers real results for your business.