Over the last few years, Video Igniter has developed an extensive list of animated video production resources to help you produce high quality content, quicker and at the lowest budget possible. We’ve also developed a bunch of content to help you market and promote your business with your custom animated video. This page contains a list of all these resources. If there’s a resource you’d like us to create that you don’t see here, use this form to let us know!

The Complete Animated Video Production Workflow

Whether you’re creating a 30-second social media advertisement or a two-minute explainer video, nearly every successful animation project follows a structured production process. Understanding each phase helps businesses plan more effectively, reduce revisions, and keep projects on schedule.

Below is a high-level overview of the complete animated video production workflow.

1. Discovery and Creative Brief

Every project begins with gathering information about the business, audience, and objectives.

A creative brief typically answers questions like:

• Who is the target audience?
• What problem does the video solve?
• What action should viewers take?
• Where will the video be published?
• What animation style best represents the brand?
• What is the desired timeline?
• What budget has been allocated?

A thorough creative brief reduces misunderstandings and gives the production team a clear direction before work begins.

2. Script Writing

The script is the foundation of every animated video.

A well-written script should:

• Capture attention quickly
• Identify the audience’s problem
• Present a clear solution
• Explain benefits rather than just features
• End with a compelling call-to-action

Most 60-second explainer videos contain approximately 125-150 spoken words.

Since every visual is built around the narration, investing time in script development often has the biggest impact on the final video’s success.

3. Storyboarding

Once the script is approved, the production team develops a storyboard.

Each storyboard panel typically includes:

• A sentence from the script
• A rough sketch of the scene
• Animation notes
• Asset requirements

Storyboards allow everyone to visualize the finished animation before expensive illustration and animation work begins.

4. Visual Development

After the storyboard is approved, artists establish the visual style.

This stage may include:

• Character design
• Color palette selection
• Illustration style exploration
• Typography choices
• Icon development
• Environmental design

Approving the visual direction early keeps the entire project visually consistent.

5. Asset Creation

Illustrators then create every visual asset required for production.

Depending on the project, assets might include:

• Characters
• Backgrounds
• Product illustrations
• Infographics
• User interface mockups
• Icons
• Logos
• Charts
• Visual effects

Once approved, these assets move into animation.

6. Animation

This is where everything comes to life.

Animators add:

• Character movement
• Camera motion
• Scene transitions
• Motion graphics
• Text animation
• Visual effects
• Timing adjustments

Animation often represents the most labor-intensive phase of production, especially for custom 2D and 3D projects.

7. Audio Production

Great animation deserves equally strong audio.

Audio production may include:

• Professional voiceover recording
• Music licensing
• Sound effects
• Audio cleanup
• Final mixing

High-quality sound dramatically improves viewer engagement and perceived production value.

8. Final Delivery

After revisions are completed, the project is exported into the required formats.

Deliverables may include:

• 4K video
• HD video
• Vertical social media versions
• Square videos
• Captioned versions
• GIFs
• Short teaser clips

Preparing multiple versions during production often saves time compared to recreating them later.

Essential Animated Video Production Resources for Every Stage

Creating a successful animated video requires more than animation software. The right resources can improve quality, accelerate production, and reduce unnecessary revisions.

Consider organizing your production resources into the following categories.

Creative Planning Resources

These help define your strategy before production begins.

Useful resources include:

• Creative brief templates
• Audience persona worksheets
• Brand messaging documents
• Marketing campaign plans
• Competitive analysis

Visual Planning Resources

These help translate ideas into visuals.

Examples include:

• Storyboard templates
• Mood boards
• Color palette references
• Illustration examples
• Character design inspiration

Production Management Resources

Larger animation projects benefit from organized project management.

Helpful tools include:

• Revision trackers
• Approval checklists
• Asset libraries
• Production calendars
• Feedback documents

Keeping everyone organized helps projects stay on schedule.

How to Stay Organized During Animated Video Production

One of the biggest reasons animation projects fall behind schedule is poor organization.

Before production begins, create a central location for all project assets.

This folder might include:

• Brand guidelines
• Logos
• Fonts
• Product screenshots
• Scripts
• Storyboards
• Reference videos
• Music preferences
• Voiceover notes

Providing everything upfront helps your animation team begin work immediately without waiting for missing assets.

Animated Video Production Checklist

Before approving your animation project, review this checklist.

Strategy

✔ Defined target audience

✔ Clear marketing objective

✔ Single primary call-to-action

✔ Approved creative brief

Script

✔ Finalized script

✔ Brand messaging included

✔ Runtime appropriate

✔ Call-to-action confirmed

Storyboard

✔ Every scene reviewed

✔ Visual instructions included

✔ Stakeholder approval completed

✔ Transitions explained

Artwork

✔ Character designs approved

✔ Branding consistent

✔ Product screenshots current

✔ Color palette finalized

Animation

✔ Motion feels natural

✔ Timing matches narration

✔ Scene transitions polished

✔ Text remains readable

Audio

✔ Voiceover approved

✔ Music licensed

✔ Sound effects balanced

✔ Audio mixed correctly

Delivery

✔ Correct resolution

✔ Correct aspect ratios

✔ Captions included if needed

✔ Final quality review completed

Using a checklist like this dramatically reduces the likelihood of overlooked issues before launch.

How to Get More Value from Your Animated Video Production Investment

One of the most overlooked animated video production resources is planning how the finished animation will be reused.

Instead of creating a single video, consider requesting additional deliverables such as:

• 15-second social media ads
• 30-second promotional clips
• GIF animations
• Website hero animations
• Trade show loops
• Email marketing videos
• LinkedIn video snippets
• Vertical versions for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts
• Presentation assets for sales teams

Repurposing a single animation into multiple marketing assets significantly increases your return on investment.

Common Challenges During Animated Video Production (And How to Avoid Them)

Nearly every animation project encounters obstacles, but many are preventable with proper planning.

Some of the most common challenges include:

Unclear Project Goals

Without clearly defined objectives, it’s difficult to determine whether the finished video is successful.

Define success before production begins.

Too Many Revision Requests

Collect feedback from all stakeholders before submitting revisions.

Multiple rounds of conflicting feedback often create unnecessary delays.

Last-Minute Script Changes

Changing the script after illustration or animation has begun often requires extensive rework.

Finalize messaging before production starts whenever possible.

Unrealistic Timelines

High-quality animation takes time.

Planning production several weeks—or even months—ahead of your launch date provides room for thoughtful revisions and quality assurance.

Why Building a Library of Animated Video Production Resources Saves Time

The most efficient marketing teams don’t start every animation project from scratch. Instead, they build a reusable library of animated video production resources that can be leveraged across future projects. This library may include brand guidelines, approved logos, fonts, icon sets, color palettes, voiceover preferences, storyboard templates, creative briefs, production checklists, and examples of previous successful videos.

Over time, these resources reduce onboarding time, improve consistency across campaigns, and make collaboration with animation studios significantly more efficient. Whether you’re producing one animated explainer video each year or dozens of product demos, training videos, and marketing campaigns, maintaining a well-organized collection of production resources helps every future project move faster while maintaining a consistently high level of quality. By investing in reusable workflows and documentation today, you’ll streamline future productions, reduce revision cycles, and maximize the value of every animated video your organization creates.

Resources For The Animated Video Production Process

Script Writing Resources

• How to write a script for an animated video?
• 7 tips to supercharge your explainer video script writing.
• How to turn your script into an animated video?
• Examples of explainer video scripts and how to write a script for an explainer video?
• Free Download: Script Writing Template

Storyboard Creation Resources

• What is a storyboard and why do you need one?
• How to create a storyboard for an animated video?
• How to build a storyboard for an explainer video?
• Free Download: Storyboard Creation Template
• Explainer Video Storyboard Examples
• How to turn your storyboard into an animated video?

Resources To Help You Pick An Animation Producer For Your Project

• 9 Things To Look For When Choosing An Animation Studio
• Tips for hiring an animator.
• How to outsource an animated video project?
• How to hire and work with an animation studio?
• How to hire a video animator?
• What is Video Igniter?
• Why do companies like hiring Video Igniter for their animation projects?

Animated Video Pre-Production Resources

• Before production begins, you’ll want to review the Pre-Production Checklist.
• How to create an animated video?
• Learn about the different styles of animation.
• How to pick the right visual style for your animated video?
• How to turn your idea into an animated video?
• How does the production process work?

Pricing and Budgeting Resources

• Animated Video Pricing – How do I figure out the right option for me?
• How much does animation cost?
• What goes into the cost of an explainer video?
• Tips to create more affordable animation.
• Payment Terms.
• How does Video Igniter’s unlimited revisions policy work?
• Need rush delivery for your animated video?
• How to make animated videos for free?
• How to make a cheap animated explainer video?

Animated Explainer Video Production Resources

• What is an explainer video?
• How long does explainer video production take?
• Explainer Video Tips: The do’s and don’ts of explainer videos.
• Explainer Video Rates
• What goes into the cost of an explainer video?
• Examples of explainer video scripts and how to write a script?
• Explainer video storyboard examples

Animation Production Resources

• How to get production started on your animated video?
• Learn the animation production workflow
• How to review your animated video and project assets?
• What is the production process like?
• How does Video Igniter’s unlimited revisions policy work?
• Need rush delivery for your animated video?

Audio Resources

• How to record your own professional sounding voiceover for free.
• How to pick a great soundtrack for your animated video?

Post Production Resources

Sales and Marketing Animated Video Production Resources

• 6 ways to get high viewer engagement from your animated videos.
• How to interpret your explainer video statistics.
• What are the benefits of using animated videos with your digital marketing?
• How to use video to improve your sales and marketing?
• Learn how to add animation to video.

Miscellaneous Production Resources

• 6 Reasons Your Tech Startup Should Make An Animated Explainer Video.
• How does Video Igniter’s unlimited revisions policy work?
• Need rush delivery for your animated video?
• What are the different types of online animated video makers?
• Learn all about 2D animated videos!
• Learn all about 3D animation.
• Learn about 2D animation studios.
• Check out Video Igniter’s Help Center.
• Last but not least, you can learn about the various types of 3D animation makers here.

Animated Video Production Resource Questions?

Do you have a question or are you looking for an animated video production resource that’s not listed here? Use this form to contact us with your question.

You can also check out our updated list of +160 free resources to help you create animated videos.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Video Igniter Animation is an online animated video production service. By working with our team online, you can get your custom animated video produced faster and for less than hiring a brick and mortar animation studio. We can help you create any kind of 2D animation or 3D animated video you can imagine.

Check out our animated video portfolio! Need help syndicating your animated video? Ask us about video promotion.

Watch our explainer video to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video for your business or check out our demo reel below.

Looking For Animated Video Production Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Animated Video Success Stories & Testimonials

“Video Igniter offered us the critical combination of creative value, clear communication, and patience with stakeholder feedback. We ended up with truly high-quality design assets for our video series largely due to the extra level of commitment — and the right balance of efficiencies with flexibility in the process when called for.”

Larry Schlessinger – Sr. Creative Program Manager, Amazon Web Services

“Video Igniter came to us with a number of creative and engaging ideas and were able to create an exciting, impactful video in a short period of time. And the best part was that it cost much less than other options of similar quality. The video they made is a great marketing tool for us.”

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

“I am beyond satisfied with my experience with Video Igniter. The first drafts of the work were almost exactly what I had in my head when developing the concept. After that each step along the way was seamless until arriving at a perfect finished product. And all this at a tremendous value. Anyone who has considered creating a marketing video should check out Video Igniter.”

Anonymous Customer Feedback

Get in touch!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video project.

Get a quote for us to create your animation.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create your Video Igniter account, fill out a creative brief and we’ll start making your custom animation.

If you’re wondering how long does it take to make an animated explainer video, you’re in the right place!

Each stage of the production process takes a different amount of time. The length of your video and complexity of the illustrations and motion design also factors in.  This outline presents a breakdown of what to expect during the explainer video production process. You’ll also learn how long each stage of the production process takes.

Explainer Video Production Process Timeline

1. Pre-Production
2. Script
3. Storyboard
4. Voiceover + Auditions
5. Soundtrack
6. Concept Art
7. Illustrations
8. Animation

If you have a question about the animated explainer video production process that isn’t answered in this article, you can use our contact form to ask your question or click the image below to with a member of our production team:

Pre-Production

Before you start looking for an animation studio or freelancer to make your custom animated video, spend some time getting clear about what kind of animation you want to create. We created a guide to help you think through the important details. Once you’ve spent some time identifying the important criteria, you’ll be better prepared to pick out a video animator that can produce the video you want, within your desired budget and timeline.

After you’ve hired a 2D animation studio or Video Igniter to produce your video, we will send you a questionnaire to learn more about your video.

While you’re in the pre-production stage, you should also spend some time organizing files like fonts, logos, icons, branding documents and more.

Not sure which animation style is right for your video?  Read out our pros and cons list to learn what’s involved with producing different styles of animated videos:

Script

Under a normal production timeline, the script writing phase takes about 1 week for an animated video that’s 1 minute long. After the animator learns about your video idea, they will take 1-3 days to create the first draft of the script.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

When the first draft is ready, take a day or two to review the script and organize your feedback for the production team. Once the writer receives your feedback, they can typically turn around a revised script in 24 hrs or less. Scripts typically take 1-3 rounds of edits to get to the final draft.

If you are writing the script yourself, allow 1-2 weeks for your team to review it and contribute their feedback. Ensure everyone has approved the script before you share it with your production team.

Storyboard

The next step of the explainer video production process is to turn the script into a storyboard. A storyboard is a document that explains what visuals and what motion design needs to happen during every sentence of your script. It’s essentially a blueprint for the design and animation teams so that they know what to create. 

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

A storyboard for a 1-2 minute video typically takes 1-4 days to produce. Then, it takes about 2-3 days to review the storyboard with the client and incorporate their edits.

You can save money on your production budget by creating your own storyboard. To learn how to create your own storyboard, check out this companion article.  We also have a free storyboard template and storyboard creation guide which you can access here:

VoiceOver + Auditions

Once your storyboard is approved, the next step of the animated explainer video production process is to get voiceover auditions for you to review. It takes about 1-3 business days to get voiceover auditions recorded and delivered from multiple artists. You should take a day or two to review the options with your team. Then, notify your animator about which audition is your favorite option. Tell your animation team if you want the voiceover artist to modify their tone when recording the full voiceover.

Your animation team will then get the full voiceover recorded in 1-3 business days. When the VO is ready to review, give it a detailed listen with your team. If you love the voiceover as is, let your animation team know. Otherwise, send them detailed feedback so that the voiceover artist will know which parts to rerecord. Provide specific instructions about how you want them to change the timing, energy or inflection used. It is also helpful to list what time in the recording the changes need to be made.

If you want to save time and a little money on your production budget, check out this video we made with tips on how to record your own professional sounding voiceover – even if you don’t have a studio or a professional microphone.

Soundtrack

Your animation team will also help select soundtracks that will enhance the presentation of your animated video. If you love one of the options, we’ll purchase the broadcast rights. Otherwise, we can select new options or wait until the first draft of your animated video is ready to view. That way, you can preview the video while listening to the different soundtrack options to feel which one is best.

Check out this guide to learn more about where to find soundtracks for your animated video.

Concept Art

After your storyboard is approved, the next phase of the explainer video production process is to create the concept art for your video. Depending on the size of your budget, you can expect to receive 1-5 different visual concepts showing how one scene of your animated video can be designed. This typically takes 2-5 days depending on the # of samples being created and the level of detail used in your animation.  

Once you receive your concept art, take a day or two to review the concepts with your team. Let your design team know which style you prefer. If you want to make visual refinements to the styleframe, now’s the time to speak up.  If you like design elements from multiple concepts, tell your design team. They can combine the best design elements into a single visual concept for you to review and approve. This typically takes another day or two for the designers to create and then run by you for approval.

Illustrations

Now that your concept art is approved, the designers will create the rest of the art for your video. It takes about one week to create all of the art for a one minute animated video. Give your illustrations a thorough and detailed review. It’s important you are happy with the art before animation begins. If you love it as-is, let them you know you approve the art. Otherwise, submit your feedback to the design team and wait 1-3 days for the update. It’s not uncommon to do a 2nd round of edits on the illustrations for an additional layer of polish.

Animation

When the art, soundtrack and voiceover are approved, the animation team will start animating your video. One animator can animate about one minute of 2D animated content in one week. Revisions can typically be turned around in 1-2 days after the animator receives your feedback.

When you receive the first draft of their video, circulate the first draft among your stakeholders. It’s a good idea to get different people’s impressions and feedback. This way, when you come back with your list of edits, all the ideas are consolidated and can be addressed at once. Going through multiple rounds of revisions at this stage will likely increase your final production cost and the amount of time it takes to get your animation completed.

Post-Production

The final stage of the animated explainer video production process is called, “Post-Production.”  Post-Production includes adding little details like sound effects, or rendering out multiple versions of the video with slight variations (perhaps you want to show a different business location’s address at the end of each video). These kinds of edits are typically simple and take 1-2 days to process after the final draft draft is approved.

Client Expectations and How to Set Realistic Timelines

Setting clear and realistic timelines for animated explainer videos is crucial to ensure the project progresses smoothly and meets both the client’s and the production team’s expectations. Often, clients may not be aware of the time commitment required for each stage of the process, from initial scriptwriting to final animation tweaks.

To avoid delays, it’s important to communicate the different phases of the project clearly. For example, the time spent on feedback rounds and revisions should be factored in early on. Be transparent about potential delays and set clear milestones so that both parties are on the same page.

By establishing a realistic production schedule upfront, both the animation studio and the client can ensure a smooth workflow and a timely delivery, reducing the risk of rushed decisions that could compromise quality.

The Impact of Animation Style on Production Time

The animation style chosen for an explainer video can significantly impact the production timeline. Simple 2D animations often take less time to produce compared to more complex 3D or motion graphics. A simple character animation might require fewer frames and less detailed design work, while a high-quality 3D animation requires detailed modeling, texturing, lighting, and rendering, which takes more time. Additionally, motion graphics with advanced visual effects may involve intricate sequencing and rendering, adding extra production time.

When deciding on the animation style, it’s essential for clients to understand that more elaborate animation styles typically require more time to complete. For businesses looking to meet tight deadlines, opting for a simpler style can help keep the production time shorter while still delivering a high-quality video.

VoiceOver and Audio Considerations

VoiceOvers and sound design are integral components of any animated explainer video, and they play a crucial role in setting the tone of your video. The process of selecting a voice actor, recording the voiceover, and synchronizing it with the animation can add a significant amount of time to the production timeline. Additionally, clients may need to be involved in reviewing and approving the voiceover before finalizing the audio.

Factors like accent, tone, and pacing can all affect the time spent in this phase. Furthermore, sound design, which includes background music, sound effects, and audio mixing, also takes time to perfect. Clients should be prepared for the time it takes to incorporate these elements and ensure that all audio elements align perfectly with the visuals for a seamless final product.

Time for Iterations and Explainer Video Revisions

An animated explainer video typically goes through several iterations and rounds of revisions. After the initial draft is created, the client will usually provide feedback on elements such as animation, pacing, and overall messaging.

The number of revision rounds can greatly impact the overall timeline, so it’s important for both the animation team and the client to agree on the expected number of revisions beforehand. To ensure a quicker turnaround, clients should provide clear, constructive feedback rather than vague or general comments. This allows the animation team to make precise adjustments, rather than spending time trying to interpret unclear instructions. By planning for at least two or three rounds of revisions and setting realistic expectations about feedback time, clients can avoid unnecessary delays.

Pre-Production Time and Its Importance

Pre-production is a crucial phase in the creation of an animated explainer video, and it can often be the most time-consuming. During this phase, the script is written, the storyboard is developed, and the overall concept for the video is fleshed out.

Clients should understand that skipping or rushing through pre-production can lead to inefficiencies later on in the process. A well-developed script, storyboard, and plan will help ensure that the animation is aligned with the desired message and tone, reducing the likelihood of major revisions later.

Furthermore, the pre-production phase allows the animation team to establish a clear timeline and budget, which sets expectations for the remainder of the project. Clients who invest the necessary time in this phase can enjoy a smoother production process and a more effective final video.

Hiring Freelancers vs. Agencies For Your Explainer Video

When choosing between freelancers and agencies for animated explainer video production, it’s important to understand how each option affects the project timeline. Freelancers often have a more flexible schedule and may be able to start and complete a project faster than a larger agency.

However, agencies typically offer a more structured process, with specialized teams handling different parts of the production. This can lead to a higher-quality final product, but it may take longer, as the agency may need more time to coordinate various departments (e.g., animation, sound design, voiceovers).

For clients working with tight deadlines, freelancers may be an attractive option, but for more complex projects requiring specialized skills, an agency might be worth the additional time and investment.

The Role of Feedback in Speeding Up Production

Providing structured and timely feedback is one of the best ways to speed up the production process of an animated explainer video. Delays in receiving feedback or unclear instructions can cause the animation team to spend valuable time revising work that doesn’t meet the client’s expectations.

To avoid unnecessary back-and-forth, clients should provide specific feedback on each aspect of the video, from visuals to pacing to messaging. The more precise and prompt the feedback, the faster the production team can implement the changes, resulting in a quicker turnaround for the final video.

Cultural and Linguistic Considerations in Global Projects

For businesses creating animated explainer videos for a global audience, cultural and linguistic considerations can add additional time to the production process. Localization involves translating the video script, adapting the animation for different cultural contexts, and sometimes even adjusting the voiceover to reflect different accents or dialects.

This process ensures that the video resonates with audiences in different regions while maintaining the integrity of the original message. Clients should factor in the time it takes to localize content when planning their production timeline. Depending on the number of languages and regions involved, localization can add a few weeks to the project timeline, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Tracking Progress and Managing Timelines with Project Management Software

Using project management software can greatly improve communication and help track the progress of an animated explainer video project. Tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com allow both clients and the animation team to set deadlines, track milestones, and communicate in real-time. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page throughout the production process.

Project management software can also help identify potential delays early on, allowing teams to make adjustments to the schedule before they become bigger issues. Clients who use these tools are more likely to stay informed about their project’s progress and can quickly address any roadblocks that arise.

Finalizing and Distributing the Video

Once the animation is completed, there are still a few crucial steps before the video is ready for distribution. The final steps include exporting the video in different formats (such as MP4, MOV, or AVI) for different platforms, performing a quality check to ensure there are no errors, and optimizing the video for web usage. Depending on the platforms where the video will be distributed (e.g., YouTube, social media, website embedding), certain adjustments might be necessary, such as adjusting the video size, aspect ratio, or adding captions. Clients should factor in time for these final steps when planning the project timeline. Having a clear plan for distribution ensures that the video will be properly optimized for the audience and platforms, leading to a successful launch.

Explainer Video Production Timeline by Project Type

When businesses ask, “How long does it take to make an animated explainer video?”, they’re often surprised to learn there isn’t a universal answer. The production timeline depends heavily on the type of video you’re creating, the complexity of the visuals, and how many people are involved in reviewing the project.

Below are some general production timelines for different types of animated videos.

Simple Motion Graphics Videos

These projects typically include:

• Animated icons
• Text animations
• Basic transitions
• Limited custom illustrations

Average timeline:

2-4 weeks

These projects are ideal for startups, product announcements, and internal communications because they require fewer custom assets.

2D Character Explainer Videos

Most marketing explainer videos fall into this category.

Production usually includes:

• Script writing
• Storyboarding
• Character design
• Custom illustrations
• Voiceover
• Animation
• Sound design

Average timeline:

4-8 weeks

This allows enough time for revisions throughout each production milestone while maintaining high visual quality.

3D Animated Explainer Videos

3D production introduces several additional stages including:

• 3D modeling
• Rigging
• Lighting
• Texturing
• Rendering
• Simulation

Average timeline:

8-16+ weeks

Highly detailed product visualizations, medical animations, and architectural animations often require even longer production schedules.

Whiteboard Animation

Whiteboard videos generally involve fewer design decisions than fully illustrated animations.

Average timeline:

2-5 weeks

Because the illustration style is relatively simple, production can often move faster.

Training & Educational Videos

Training videos are frequently longer than marketing videos.

Although the animation style may be simple, longer runtimes naturally increase production time.

Average timeline:

6-12 weeks

Large employee onboarding projects may be delivered in phases rather than all at once.

What Causes Delays During Explainer Video Production?

Most production delays don’t happen because animation is slow.

Instead, delays usually occur during communication and approvals.

Here are the most common reasons production timelines expand.

Delayed Client Feedback

Animation teams often cannot begin the next stage until the current stage has been approved.

For example:

• Storyboard approval
• Concept art approval
• Voiceover approval
• Illustration approval
• Animation approval

If feedback takes several days—or several weeks—to arrive after each milestone, the project timeline can grow considerably.

Whenever possible, gather feedback from all stakeholders before sending revision requests to your animation studio.

Too Many Decision Makers

Projects involving multiple departments often take longer.

Marketing may want one thing.

Sales may request another.

Leadership may have additional revisions.

Legal may require compliance updates.

Consolidating everyone’s comments into one revision request saves significant time throughout production.

Scope Changes

One of the biggest production delays occurs when the project changes after work has already begun.

Examples include:

• Rewriting the script
• Adding new scenes
• Changing animation styles
• Updating branding
• Introducing new products
• Replacing screenshots

Even small changes can affect multiple production stages.

For example, adding one sentence to the script may require:

• Storyboard updates
• New illustrations
• Additional voiceover recording
• Extra animation
• Updated sound effects

Finalizing your messaging before production starts helps prevent these delays.

How to Speed Up Explainer Video Production

If your business has an important launch date approaching, there are several ways to shorten the production schedule.

Prepare Your Brand Assets Early

Before production begins, gather everything your animation team will need.

Examples include:

• Logo files
• Brand guidelines
• Fonts
• Product screenshots
• UI mockups
• Company colors
• Existing illustrations
• Photography

Having these assets ready eliminates unnecessary waiting later.

Finalize the Script First

The script influences nearly every stage of production.

Illustrations, voiceover, animation, and timing all depend on having an approved script.

Resist the temptation to continue editing the script after production begins.

Assign One Project Owner

Rather than having multiple people communicate directly with the animation team, designate one person to:

• Collect internal feedback
• Resolve conflicting opinions
• Submit consolidated revisions
• Approve milestones

This greatly improves communication efficiency.

Schedule Review Meetings in Advance

Many projects lose days simply waiting for stakeholders to schedule review meetings.

Instead, schedule milestone reviews before production begins.

For example:

• Script review
• Storyboard review
• Concept art review
• Illustration review
• Animation review

Having review dates already on everyone’s calendar keeps the project moving.

Why Rushing an Explainer Video Can Increase Costs

Businesses occasionally ask whether an animation can be completed in just a week or two.

While rush production is sometimes possible, it often increases production costs.

Rush projects may require:

• Multiple designers working simultaneously
• Evening or weekend production
• Expedited voiceover recording
• Priority rendering
• Overtime for animators

More resources are needed to compress the schedule without sacrificing quality.

Whenever possible, begin production several months before your planned launch.

Questions to Ask Before Starting Your Animation Project

Before hiring an animation studio, ask these questions to better estimate your timeline.

• How many revision rounds are included?
• How quickly should we provide feedback?
• What happens if our deadline changes?
• Will one project manager oversee production?
• How frequently will we receive progress updates?
• What files should we prepare before kickoff?
• Can multiple production stages happen simultaneously?
• Is there a rush production option if needed?

Understanding these expectations early helps prevent scheduling surprises later.

Sample Timeline for a 60-Second Animated Explainer Video

While every project is unique, a typical production schedule might look something like this:

Week 1

• Creative brief
• Discovery meeting
• Script writing

Week 2

• Script revisions
• Storyboard creation

Week 3

• Storyboard approval
• Voiceover auditions
• Concept art

Week 4

• Final voice recording
• Illustration production

Week 5

• Illustration review
• Animation begins

Week 6

• First animation draft
• Client revisions

Week 7

• Final animation polish
• Sound effects
• Music mixing
• Exporting final deliverables

Projects with longer runtimes or more sophisticated animation styles naturally require additional time.

Planning Ahead Leads to Faster, Better Explainer Videos

The answer to “How long does it take to make an animated explainer video?” depends on far more than the length of the finished video. Factors like animation style, project complexity, stakeholder feedback, revision cycles, asset preparation, and production scheduling all influence the timeline.

The most successful projects are typically the ones that begin with careful planning. Businesses that finalize their messaging early, organize their brand assets, provide prompt feedback, and work collaboratively with their animation studio often experience a smoother production process and faster delivery. Rather than focusing solely on speed, aim for a production schedule that provides enough time for thoughtful creative development and quality assurance. A well-planned explainer video not only launches on time but also delivers stronger messaging, better viewer engagement, and a higher return on investment for years after it’s published.

Animated Explainer Video Production Resources

Now that you can answer the question, “how long does it take to make an animated explainer video,” here are some additional resources that will help you turn your idea into a custom animated explainer video:

• How to make video animations
• What explainer video services does Video Igniter offer?
• How much does it cost to hire an explainer video production company?
• How to make a 3D explainer video
• What is it like work with an animated explainer video company?

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Video Igniter is an animated video production company that creates 2D and 3D videos. Check out our animated video portfolio to see our latest and greatest creations!

Interested in learning about pricing for your video project? Request access to our pricing page here.

Animated Video Demo Reel

Ready to make a storyboard for your explainer video but aren’t sure how to get started? We thought it might be helpful to share some explainer video storyboard examples from past projects so that you can see what a completed storyboard looks like. We’ll also show you the video that resulted from the storyboard so you can see how the storyboard gets translated into a custom animated video.

Content:

1). The Importance of Creating A Storyboard

2). Explainer Video Storyboard Examples

3). How to Create A Storyboard For an Explainer Video

4). Animated Explainer Video Storyboard Template

5). Explainer Video Storyboard Creation FAQ

1). The Importance Of Creating A Storyboard

The storyboard is like the blueprint for your explainer video. It provides instructions to the illustrators and animators so that they understand what you want them to create. Otherwise, you’re leaving too much up for interpretation and it may require expensive rework to fix the video and make it look the way you want.

Each page of a storyboard includes four parts:

1. A sentence from your script
2. A mockup or rough sketch of the scene
3. A bullet point list of the animation instructions
4. A list of assets needed to create the scene

Here’s an example of what that looks like:

Want to save $ on your production budget? Download our free storyboard template to create your explainer video storyboard right on your computer. Creating your storyboard can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars off the cost of your explainer video.

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

2). Explainer Video Storyboard Example

If you’re wondering “what does a good explainer video storyboard look like…” – we started digging up some examples for you to check out. We also included the video that was created from the storyboard so you can see what it looks like after it’s turned into a custom animated video.

Explainer Video Storyboard Example:

Resulting Video:

3). How to Create A Storyboard For an Explainer Video

Once the script for your explainer video is approved, you can use it to create your storyboard.

First, download our free storyboard creation template and paste it into Google Slides, Keynote or Powerpoint.

Then, duplicate that page one time for every sentence in your script. Paste one sentence on each slide of the storyboard.

Use clip art to create a mockup of each scene. Or, create a rough sketch on paper, take a photo with your phone and paste it into your storyboard.

Create a list of instructions for the animators so they understand how everything is supposed to move in the scene.

Finally, include a list of assets that are needed to create the scene. This is where you should provide specific detailed instructions for what assets are needed to create the scene. For example: Main character should be female with red hair. She is holding a kayak paddle in her left hand and wearing river rafting gear, including a helmet. Water SFX. Mountain river scene in the background.

Extra resources to help you create the storyboard for your explainer video

• How to create a storyboard?
• Tips to help you build a great storyboard.
• Download our free storyboard template.
• What is a storyboard? And why do you need one?

4). Animated Explainer Video Storyboard Template

We created an explainer video storyboard template you can download to create your own storyboard on your computer so you can save money on your production budget. Creating your own storyboard can help you save hundreds or thousands of dollars off your explainer video cost.

5). Explainer Video Storyboard Creation FAQ

How long should my storyboard be?

Typically, a storyboard has one page for each sentence in the script. If there is a more detailed sequence you are trying to explain in your storyboard, it makes sense to break a sentence up into multiple pages to make it easier to explain and visualize what is supposed to happen during each part of your explainer video script.

Explainer video scripts typically have 125-150 words for each 60 seconds of content. This ends up being about 8-12 sentences or 8-12+ pages for your storyboard.

Each 60 seconds of an explainer video is about 125-150 words long

What does it cost to create a storyboard for an animated explainer video?

Animation studios typically charge a few hundred dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars to create a storyboard for an explainer video.  Most studios don’t charge on the high end and rely on information you provide them to inform the creation of the storyboard. High end storyboard creation services include detailed research programs to understand the target audience and test which visual messages resonate with them to ensure the message is understandable and memorable.

Deep Dive: Want to know what else goes into the cost of an explainer video?

How long does it take to create a storyboard?

Storyboard creation can be a fast process if your timeline is tight and your team is nimble. Usually the storyboard creation process takes 1-2 weeks. After the client approves the script, the storyboard artists will create the first draft in 2-3 days. Then, you get an opportunity to review the storyboard and request revisions. The animated video production company will review your notes, incorporate the revisions and send back an updated version of the storyboard within a few business days.

Common Storyboard Mistakes That Make Explainer Videos Less Effective

Even experienced marketers sometimes create storyboards that look great on paper but don’t translate into engaging animated videos. A storyboard isn’t just a collection of sketches—it’s a communication tool that helps everyone involved in production understand exactly what should happen in each scene. Avoiding these common mistakes will save time, reduce revision requests, and improve the effectiveness of your final explainer video.

1. Trying to Show Too Much in One Scene

One of the biggest mistakes is attempting to communicate multiple ideas simultaneously.

For example, a single frame might include:

• A product dashboard
• Three characters
• Several text callouts
• Background graphics
• Animated arrows
• Statistics
• Company branding

Instead of helping viewers understand your message, overcrowded scenes overwhelm them.

A better approach is to simplify each storyboard panel so it communicates one primary idea. If a concept requires multiple visual steps, split it into several storyboard pages. This makes the animation easier to follow and often improves viewer retention.

2. Matching Every Spoken Word With a Visual

Many first-time storyboard creators try to literally illustrate every word in the script.

Instead, think visually.

For example, if the narrator says:

“Our software helps businesses save time.”

Rather than drawing a clock beside a computer, you might show:

• A growing stack of paperwork disappearing
• Employees leaving work earlier
• Tasks completing automatically
• A progress bar finishing instantly

Visual metaphors often create stronger emotional impact than literal illustrations.

3. Forgetting About Scene Transitions

A storyboard shouldn’t only show individual scenes—it should explain how one scene flows into the next.

Consider transition ideas such as:

• Camera zooms
• Morphing objects
• Swipe transitions
• Character movement
• Object transformations
• Animated UI expanding into full-screen graphics

Planning transitions during storyboarding creates a much smoother finished animation and helps animators estimate production effort more accurately.

4. Not Considering Screen Size

Many explainer videos are watched on smartphones.

When creating your storyboard, ask yourself:

• Can viewers easily read this text on a phone?
• Are icons large enough?
• Is the composition clean?
• Is there enough contrast?

If a storyboard relies on tiny labels or complicated diagrams, viewers may miss the most important information.

5. Leaving Too Much Open to Interpretation

A rough sketch is perfectly acceptable.

Vague instructions are not.

Instead of writing:

“Character walks.”

Try something like:

“Character confidently walks toward camera while smiling. Background gradually transforms from a messy office into an organized workspace.”

The more specific your storyboard instructions, the easier it becomes for illustrators and animators to deliver exactly what you envisioned.

Different Types of Explainer Video Storyboards

Not every storyboard looks the same. The best storyboard format depends on the type of video you’re producing.

Product Demo Storyboards

Product demos usually focus on:

• Screen recordings
• User interface animations
• Cursor movement
• Feature highlights
• Before-and-after workflows

These storyboards often include detailed notes explaining exactly which buttons users click and how the interface should animate.

SaaS Explainer Video Storyboards

Software companies frequently use storyboards that alternate between:

• Customer pain points
• Product demonstrations
• Animated data visualizations
• Dashboard mockups
• Call-to-action screens

The storyboard should clearly indicate where the software interface appears versus when custom illustrations are used.

Healthcare Explainer Storyboards

Medical animation storyboards often require greater technical accuracy.

These projects may include:

• Human anatomy
• Medical devices
• Treatment processes
• Biological systems
• Scientific diagrams

Because accuracy is critical, storyboard approval is often completed by both marketing teams and subject matter experts before animation begins.

Corporate Training Storyboards

Internal training videos typically focus on education rather than marketing.

Storyboard panels often include:

• Employee interactions
• Workplace scenarios
• Compliance procedures
• Safety demonstrations
• Process walkthroughs

Since these videos prioritize clarity, storyboard notes are usually more detailed than the sketches themselves.

Commercial Advertisement Storyboards

Commercial storyboards often resemble movie storyboards.

They include additional information such as:

• Camera angles
• Dramatic lighting
• Emotional expressions
• Music cues
• Sound effects
• Timing between cuts

These storyboards are designed to maximize emotional impact while telling a concise story.

How Storyboards Speed Up the Animation Process

Many clients wonder whether creating a storyboard is worth the extra effort.

In reality, storyboarding is one of the biggest time-saving steps in the entire animation pipeline.

Without a storyboard, illustrators and animators are forced to make creative assumptions.

Those assumptions often lead to:

• Additional revisions
• New artwork
• Re-animated scenes
• Missed deadlines
• Higher production costs

With an approved storyboard, every department knows exactly what needs to be created before production begins.

The storyboard becomes a shared blueprint that guides:

• Illustrators
• Character designers
• Motion designers
• Voice directors
• Editors
• Sound designers
• Producers

This dramatically reduces misunderstandings throughout production.

Storyboard Checklist Before You Approve Production

Before moving into illustration and animation, review your storyboard using this checklist.

Ask yourself:

✅ Does every scene communicate one clear idea?

✅ Does each visual support the narration?

✅ Is the call-to-action obvious?

✅ Are scene transitions clearly explained?

✅ Have unnecessary scenes been removed?

✅ Is branding used consistently?

✅ Are product screenshots current?

✅ Are all character descriptions included?

✅ Have animation instructions been added to every panel?

✅ Have all stakeholders reviewed and approved the storyboard?

Completing this checklist before production begins can prevent expensive revisions later in the project.

Why Great Storyboards Lead to Better Explainer Videos

The best explainer video storyboard examples don’t just contain sketches—they communicate a complete visual strategy.

A great storyboard helps answer questions like:

• What should viewers see while the narrator is speaking?
• Which information deserves the most visual emphasis?
• Where should motion naturally draw the viewer’s attention?
• How can complex concepts be simplified into memorable visuals?
• What emotions should viewers experience throughout the video?

When these questions are answered during storyboarding, the animation process becomes faster, smoother, and more predictable.

Perhaps most importantly, a thoughtful storyboard helps ensure the finished explainer video achieves its primary goal: helping viewers quickly understand your message and motivating them to take action. Whether you’re creating a product demo, SaaS explainer, nonprofit fundraising video, healthcare animation, or animated commercial, investing time in the storyboard stage almost always results in a stronger final video, fewer revisions, and a better return on your video production investment.

Hire Video Igniter To Create Your Storyboard And Produce Your Explainer Video!

We write scripts and make custom explainer videos for world-class brands like T-Mobile, Amazon Web Services and Linkedin @ video production prices startups can afford.

Check out our portfolio.

Interested in getting some pricing info? Get yourself a copy of our latest rate sheet.

+20 reasons companies love hiring Video Igniter to create animated videos.

Explainer Video Demo Reel

Explainer Video Success Stories & Testimonials

“I run a video production company and outsource animation. The team at Video Igniter did a great job in taking the concept I very crudely drew out and made it into a beautiful animation. The review process was easy and their turnaround time was very quick. I’d def recommend them if you’re looking for an animation project.”

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

“Video Igniter came to us with a number of creative and engaging ideas and were able to create an exciting, impactful video in a short period of time. And the best part was that it cost much less than other options of similar quality. The video they made is a great marketing tool for us.”

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

“I found exactly what I needed: custom animated production with lots of options, fair price and fast communication. I loved working with the Video Igniter Team. Million thanks.”

Antonina Rome, MD – Bioresona

Get An Animated Explainer Video For Your Business!

Schedule a call to discuss creating a storyboard for your animated video.

Get a quote for your explainer video & storyboard.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Check out our animated video portfolio to see our latest and greatest creations.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Are you looking for an online animation maker to create a custom animated video for you? If so, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explain the pros and cons of different types of online animation makers and explain how to use them to make animated videos.

We’ll also explain how Video Igniter’s online animation maker can be used to create custom animated videos on your behalf. Explore production examples and get a quote for your animation.

Examples of Videos That Video Igniter Can Make For You Online

Video Igniter can create any kind of 2D or 3D animated video for you. Check out our animation portfolio here.

Request access to our demo reels and price sheet here. Contact us or schedule a call to start making your video.

Are you looking for an example of a different style of animation? Send us a message to let us know what kind of animation example you want to see and we will follow up with relevant production samples.

How To Make A Video With Video Igniter’s Online Animation Maker?

Here’s a brief overview of the production process so that you know what to expect while your video is being created for you.

1). Contact Us

To start making your animation, contact us or schedule a call with our production team. We’ll work with you to create a production plan to create your dream video that works for your budget and due date. We’ll also get some important background information from you like:

✅ Who is the target audience for your animation?

✅ What do you want to communicate in your animation?

✅ What do you want to show in your animation?

✅ What visual style do you want us to use for your animation?

2). Script Development

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

We’ll turn that information into a script that communicates your talking points to your target audience in a way that resonates with them. You get an opportunity to review the script and request revisions until you love the script.

3). Storyboard Creation

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

We turn your script into a storyboard so that our production team knows exactly what to create during each part of your script. You get to review and request revisions before approving the storyboard for production.

4). Record VoiceOver

You will receive voiceover auditions for each voice that’s used in your animation. After you select your favorites, we’ll get the full voiceovers recorded and give you an chance to review them and request edits.

5). Soundtrack Selection

Music is used to enhance key moments in your animation. We’ll send you several soundtrack options to choose from. Select your favorite(s) and then we’ll procure the broadcast license to use the music in your animation.

6). Illustrations

Our art director will send you concept art for your video. Let them know which option you like best. You can also collaborate with our art director to refine and polish the details of your preferred visual concept until you love it! Then, we create all of the rest of the art for your video and give you a chance to review them and request edits before we animate.

7). Animation

Now that everything is approved, it’s time for us to animate your video! Review the first draft of your animation with your target audience. Then, send us your feedback. We’ll incorporate your edits and render out the final draft of your animation.

What is an online animation maker?

An online animation maker is a service that can be used to create animated videos. These services often include video templates you can customize to create your own animated video. They also include pre-created characters, scenes and objects you can add into your video. Other online animation makers enable you to create custom animated videos from scratch – and the best part is, you don’t have to do any of the work!

Read on to learn more about the differences between the Internet’s most popular ways to make a animation online.

Types of Online Animation Makers

DIY Online Animation Makers

Most online animation makers are designed to make it easy for people to create animated videos using pre-created characters, objects, scenes and templates. It’s up to you to pick out the images you want to show in each scene. You lay them out to compose each scene and then use the timeline below the video to specify when and how you want different objects to move and animate in the scene.

Here are some examples of the quality you can expect when you use a DIY online animation maker to create your animated video:

Custom Designed Online Animation Makers

If you are interested in getting a custom animated video made for your project, you’re going to want to look at a service like Video Igniter. Unlike other online animation makers where you have to do all the work and end up with a video that’s basically a customized template, Video Igniter enables you to get a 100% custom designed animated video, even if you have zero video production experience.

Use Video Igniter’s online production dashboard to describe the video you want and sit back while Video Igniter’s team of professional animators creates your script, storyboard, illustrations, voiceover and music for you. You get an opportunity to review all the pieces of your animation and request revisions. Once you’re happy with everything, Video Igniter animates your 2D or 3D video for you.

Popular Online Animation Makers

Top DIY Online Animation Makers

Vyond

Pros:

✅ Vyond offers a wide range of pre-built templates and characters, making it easy to create professional-looking animations quickly.

✅ The platform provides a robust set of features, including lip-syncing & facial animations, allowing for more dynamic and engaging animations.

Cons:

❌ Vyond can be relatively expensive compared to other online animation makers, especially for those on a tight budget or individuals creating videos on a smaller scale.

❌ The learning curve for mastering Vyond’s advanced features may be steep for beginners, requiring some time and practice to fully utilize the platform’s capabilities.

Wideo

Pros:

✅ Wideo offers a simple and intuitive interface, making it beginner-friendly and allowing users to create professional-looking animations with ease.

✅ The platform provides a vast library of pre-designed templates, characters, and objects, making it convenient for users who want to quickly create videos without starting from scratch.

Cons:

❌ While Wideo offers a good range of templates, the overall customization options may be slightly limited compared to other online animation makers, potentially leading to less unique-looking videos.

❌ Some users have reported occasional glitches or performance issues when working with more complex animations or larger projects.

PowToon

Pros:

✅ PowToon is known for its user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop functionality, making it suitable for beginners and those without prior animation experience.

✅ PowToon offers seamless integration with popular presentation software like PowerPoint, making it a handy tool for creating animated presentations.

Cons:

❌ PowToon’s free plan has significant limitations, including watermarked videos and limited access to premium features, which may be a drawback for users on a tight budget.

❌ While PowToon offers a good range of customization options, more advanced users may find the platform’s capabilities somewhat limited compared to other animation makers.

Animaker

Pros:

✅ Animaker offers a feature-rich platform with a wide range of templates, characters, and assets, allowing users to create diverse and visually appealing animations.

✅ The platform provides a comprehensive set of animation tools, including options for text effects, transitions, and audio synchronization, enabling users to create professional-grade videos.

Cons:

❌ Some users have reported occasional performance issues or slow rendering times when working with more complex animations or longer videos.

❌ While Animaker offers a considerable range of features, the learning curve may be steeper compared to other online animation makers, particularly for beginners or those new to animation.

Top Online Animation Makers for Custom Animated Videos

Video Igniter Animation

Pros:

✅ Video Igniter can be used to create any kind of 2D or 3D animated video you can imagine.

✅ Zero video production experience is necessary. If you can describe the video you want, Video Igniter’s production team can create it for you.

✅ Video Igniter’s online production dashboard makes it easy for you to see where your video is in the production process and provide feedback as needed.

Cons:

❌ Video Igniter takes more time and cost more than a DIY online animation maker because real humans are creating your animated video from scratch.

How much does an online animation maker cost?

Most DIY online animation makers charge a monthly subscription fee of $19-$149/month. Beyond that, the cost of production includes the cost of your time to create the script, voiceover and the overall animation.

If you want to use an online animation maker like Video Igniter to create a custom animated video for you, the price will be higher but the quality will be substantially better because Video Igniter uses real professional illustrators and animators to create your video from scratch. You can check out our current prices here.

How long does it take to make a video using an online animation maker?

This depends on the length of the video and the type of animation you want. DIY online animation makers like Vyond, Wideo and Powtoon can be used to make an animated video in a few hours or days. Just create an account, look through their templates and customize the animation to your liking using their online animation editing platform.

On the flip side, if you’re interested in making a custom animated video, we recommend using a service like Video Igniter to create the animation for you. Production timelines for a 2D custom animated video range from 3-6 weeks for most video projects. Custom 3D animated videos take 2-4x more time to create.

How To Choose The Best Online Animation Maker For Your Project

With dozens of online animation makers available today, it can be difficult to determine which platform is the best fit for your project. While many services advertise similar features, the right choice depends on your goals, your budget, and the type of video you need to produce.

Before choosing an online animation maker, ask yourself a few important questions:

• Do you want to create custom animations or are templates acceptable?
• Will you be creating one video or multiple videos throughout the year?
• Do you have the time to learn animation software?
• Does your team have experience writing scripts and designing storyboards?
• Do you need commercial usage rights for your video?
• Will your animation need to match your company’s branding guidelines?

Answering these questions will help narrow your options and prevent you from investing time in a platform that isn’t designed for your needs.

Features To Look For In An Online Animation Maker

Not every online animation maker offers the same capabilities. Some are designed for beginners, while others are better suited for experienced marketers, educators, and creative professionals.

Here are some of the most valuable features to look for:

Easy-To-Use Interface

If you’re creating your own video, the platform should have an intuitive interface that makes it easy to arrange scenes, edit text, add graphics, and animate objects without requiring extensive training.

Brand Customization

Businesses often need videos that match their visual identity. Look for an online animation maker that allows you to customize:

• Brand colors
• Fonts
• Logos
• Icons
• Character designs
• Backgrounds
• Motion styles

Maintaining visual consistency across all of your marketing materials helps strengthen brand recognition.

Large Asset Library

Many online animation makers include libraries containing thousands of illustrations, characters, icons, music tracks, and sound effects.

A larger library gives you more creative flexibility and reduces the need to purchase additional design assets elsewhere.

Collaboration Tools

If multiple people will review your animation, collaborative features can save a significant amount of time.

Helpful collaboration tools include:

• Commenting directly on scenes
• Version history
• Approval workflows
• Cloud storage
• Shared workspaces

These features are especially valuable for marketing teams, agencies, and enterprise organizations.

Common Uses For An Online Animation Maker

Online animation makers are used across virtually every industry. While animated explainer videos remain one of the most popular applications, animated videos are now used for many different purposes.

Some of the most common projects include:

• Product launch videos
• SaaS product demonstrations
• Employee onboarding videos
• Customer training content
• Social media advertisements
• YouTube videos
• Investor presentations
• Internal company communications
• Sales enablement videos
• Event promotions
• Educational lessons
• Healthcare animations
• Nonprofit fundraising campaigns

Because animated videos can simplify complex topics while keeping viewers engaged, they continue to grow in popularity across both B2B and B2C marketing.

DIY Animation Maker Or Professional Animation Studio?

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to use a DIY online animation maker or hire professional animators.

DIY animation platforms work well when:

• You need a simple presentation
• Speed is more important than originality
• Your budget is limited
• Template-based visuals are acceptable

A professional animation studio is often the better choice when:

• Your brand needs a unique visual identity
• You want custom illustrations
• You need advanced motion graphics
• You’re producing television commercials
• Your animation represents a major product launch
• Multiple stakeholders require revisions
• Your company has strict brand guidelines

While hiring professionals typically costs more, custom animation often produces a stronger first impression and can continue generating value for years after it’s created.

Why Custom Animation Often Delivers Better Results

Template-based videos can look polished, but they frequently resemble hundreds of other videos created using the same software.

Custom animation offers several advantages:

• Original artwork created specifically for your business
• Unique characters and environments
• Tailored visual storytelling
• Greater flexibility during production
• Better alignment with your brand identity
• More memorable viewer experiences

For companies competing in crowded industries, standing out visually can significantly improve audience engagement and brand recall.

Video Formats Produced By Online Animation Makers

Depending on the platform, an online animation maker may export videos in several different formats.

Popular export options include:

• MP4
• MOV
• GIF
• WebM
• Transparent video files
• High-definition (HD)
• Full HD (1080p)
• 4K video

Choosing the appropriate format depends on where your animation will be published, whether that’s YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, your website, a trade show display, or an internal presentation.

Accessibility Considerations For Animated Videos

An effective animation should be accessible to as many viewers as possible.

Consider including:

• Closed captions
• High-contrast visuals
• Readable font sizes
• Clear narration
• Descriptive on-screen text
• Color combinations that remain legible for viewers with color vision deficiencies

Making your animated videos accessible improves the viewing experience while helping your content reach a wider audience.

Can AI Replace An Online Animation Maker?

Artificial intelligence has introduced new tools that can automatically generate scripts, voiceovers, images, and even simple animations.

While AI can accelerate portions of the production process, it still has limitations.

AI-generated animations may struggle with:

• Consistent branding
• Character continuity
• Complex storytelling
• Emotional performances
• Highly customized visuals
• Precise motion design

For businesses that need polished marketing videos or premium brand content, human designers and animators continue to play an essential role in producing professional-quality work.

Many animation studios now combine AI-assisted workflows with experienced artists to improve efficiency while maintaining creative quality.

Measuring The Success Of Your Animated Video

After publishing your animation, it’s important to evaluate its performance.

Useful metrics include:

• Total video views
• Average watch time
• Audience retention
• Click-through rate
• Conversion rate
• Lead generation
• Social shares
• Comments
• Sales influenced by the video

Reviewing these metrics helps determine whether your animation achieved its objectives and provides valuable insights for future productions.

Tips For Getting Better Results From An Online Animation Maker

Whether you’re creating the animation yourself or working with a professional production team, following a few best practices can dramatically improve the final video.

Start by focusing on one primary message rather than trying to explain everything at once.

Keep your script concise and conversational.

Use visuals to reinforce your narration instead of simply repeating what viewers already hear.

Include a clear call-to-action that tells viewers exactly what to do next, whether that’s scheduling a demo, requesting a quote, signing up for a newsletter, or purchasing your product.

Finally, remember that animation is an investment. A professionally produced animated video can be repurposed across your website, social media channels, email campaigns, sales presentations, digital advertising, trade shows, and customer onboarding materials, allowing you to maximize its value long after production is complete.

Online Animation Maker Production Resources

These guides and resources are popular among people researching and reading about online animation makers:

What Is A 2D Video Maker?

How To Use An Animation Maker Production Service?

How To Make Animated Videos For Free

How To Use An Explainer Video Maker

Still have questions about online animation makers?

Do you have a question about online animation makers that wasn’t addressed in this FAQ? Use this form to send us your question and we’ll follow up with an answer. We’ll also post the question and answer to this page so other people can benefit from the knowledge.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Video Igniter Animation is an online animated video production service. By working with our team online, you can get your custom animated video produced faster and for less than hiring a brick and mortar animation studio.

We can help you create any kind of 2D animated video or 3D animation you can imagine. Check out our animated video portfolio.

Watch our explainer video on our home page to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video. For examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce, check out the demo reel below:

Looking For An Animated Video Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Success Stories & Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it – these testimonials highlight Video Igniter’s reliability, creativity, flexibility and ability to deliver animations that exceed expectations. When you choose Video Igniter Animation, you can rest assured that you are working with a trusted and reputable studio.

“Video Igniter were very easy to work with and the entire process for creating and suggesting edits was seamless and stress-free. I would work with them again and would recommend to others looking to create a modern and stylish explainer video.”

Clair Simpson – VP Marketing, Repool

“I run a video production company and outsource animation. The team at Video Igniter did a great job in taking the concept I very crudely drew out and making it into a beautiful animation. The review process was easy and their turnaround time was very quick. I’d def recommend them if you’re looking for an animation project.”

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

“Video Igniter came to us with a number of creative and engaging ideas and were able to create an exciting, impactful video in a short period of time. And the best part was that it cost much less than other options of similar quality. The video they made is a great marketing tool for us.”

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

“Video Igniter offered us the critical combination of creative value, clear communication, and patience with stakeholder feedback. We ended up with truly high-quality design assets for our video series largely due to the extra level of commitment — and the right balance of efficiencies with flexibility in the process when called for.”

Larry Schlessinger – Sr. Creative Program Manager, Amazon Web Services

Get in touch!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video project.

Get a quote for us to create your animated video.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create your Video Igniter account, fill out a creative brief for your video and we’ll begin production as soon as we receive your production deposit.

If you want to make an animated video, you’re in the right place! Video Igniter’s animation service enables you to create any kind of custom animated video you can imagine – even if you have zero video production experience. Whether you want to create an explainer video, an animated promotional commercial, a 2D video or a 3D video, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explain what Video Igniter’s animation production service is, how it works and how much it costs to use.

What is Video Igniter’s Animation Service?

Video Igniter’s animation service streamlines the production process to make it faster, easier and more affordable to create high quality custom animated videos. All you have to do is describe the video you want to create and pick out your budget level. After that, just sit back and relax while Video Igniter’s team of professional animators creates your custom animated video for you.

Examples of Videos You Can Create With Video Igniter’s Animation Service

Video Igniter can create any kind of 2D or 3D animated video for you. Check out our animation portfolio here. Request access to our demo reels and price sheet here.

Contact us or schedule a call to start making your video.

Are you looking for an example of a different style of animation? Send us a message to let us know what kind of animation example you want to see and we will follow up with relevant production samples.

How To Use Video Igniter’s Animation Service Make Custom Animated Videos?

Video Igniter’s animation services create custom animated videos on your behalf. Here’s an overview of what to expect during the production experience.

1). Start Your Project

Production begins by filling out a creative brief and or having a kick off call with Video Igniter’s production team. This is your opportunity to tell us what you want to include in your vdieo, who your target audience is and what kidn of visual style you want to use for your video. We’ll use this information to develop a production budget and a production schedule for your video project.

2). 50% Payment

You will receive an invoice for 50% of the project budget. Once it’s paid, we begin production on your video.

3). Script Development

Download Video Igniter’s Free Script Writing Template

Our team will develop a draft of the script for your animation. Video Igniter’s online animation service will send you an email notification when it’s time to review your script. Share your feedback and our team will revise your script until you love it. When you are completely happy with the script, mark it as approved and we will move to the next stage of production.

4). Storyboard Creation

Download Video Igniter’s Free Storyboard Template

Our team will turn your script into a storyboard. The storyboard is the blueprint for your animated video; it tells the illustrators and animators what to create for every scene of your video. Video Igniter’s animation service will send you an email notification when it’s time to review your storyboard. Share your feedback with our team and we will revise your storyboard to include your edits. Once you’re completely satisfied with the storyboard, we’ll move on to the next stage of production.

5). Illustrations

You will receive an email notification with concept art from our art director. Give the concepts a detailed review and let our art director know which concept you prefer. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with the art director to refine the visual style until you absolutely love it. Once the concept art is perfected, our illustration team will create all of the rest of the images for your video. You get an opportunity to review all the art and request edits before approving the art for production.

6). VoiceOver

Video Igniter’s animation service will send you a notification when it’s time to review the voiceover auditions for your project. Preview the auditions and select the one you like best. Then, our team will oversee the recording of the full voiceover. You will get another notification when it’s time to review the full voiceover and be given an opportunity to request revisions before approving the voiceover for production.

7). Soundtrack

Our team will select several soundtracks that we believe will enhance the presentation of your animation. Give them a listen and select the one you like best for your animation. Our team will secure the license to use the music in your video.

8). Animation

Now it’s time for the animation service to get to work! Your script, storyboard, voiceover, illustrations and music are all approved and now we can animate everything together. You will receive an email notification when it’s time to review the first draft. Give your video a detailed review and let us know what edits you want us to make. We’ll incorporate your revisions and send you the final draft of your animation.

What does it cost to use Video Igniter’s Animation Service?

Video Igniter’s animation service produces videos at all price ranges ($500-$100,000+). Most videos cost a few thousand dollars to create a 60 second animation. You can request access to our price sheet here. If you’re looking for a quote for your animated video, use this page to send us a message or fill out this questionnaire.

How long does it take to make a video using Video Igniter’s animation service?

2D animated videos tend to take 3-6 weeks to create a 60 second animation. 3D animated videos take 2-4x more time to create using Video Igniter’s animation service. For a deep dive on how long it takes to animate a video, check out this companion article: “How long does it take to animate a 1 minute video?”

Why Businesses Choose a Professional Animation Service Instead of DIY Animation Software

There are dozens of animation apps available today that promise anyone can create animated videos in minutes. While these tools are useful for simple social media posts or internal presentations, they often fall short when businesses need professional marketing content.

A professional animation service offers far more than access to animation software. It combines creative strategy, experienced designers, professional writers, illustrators, animators, voice actors, and project managers into one streamlined production process.

Some of the biggest advantages of hiring an animation service include:

Custom Creative Strategy

Professional animation begins long before anyone opens animation software. An experienced animation service takes time to understand your audience, business goals, competitors, and messaging before developing creative concepts.

This strategic planning helps produce videos that don’t just look great—they achieve measurable business objectives.

Higher Production Quality

Professional animators create original artwork specifically for your project rather than relying on stock graphics or reusable templates.

This results in:

• Unique character designs
• Branded color palettes
• Custom iconography
• Original motion graphics
• Professional transitions
• Polished visual storytelling

The result is a video that reflects your brand instead of looking like thousands of other videos created with the same template library.

Faster Project Completion

Many companies assume creating videos themselves will save money.

In reality, employees often spend dozens or even hundreds of hours learning animation software, writing scripts, revising scenes, recording voiceovers, and troubleshooting technical problems.

A professional animation service allows your team to stay focused on running your business while experienced specialists handle every stage of production.

Industries That Benefit From Animation Services

Animation has become one of the most versatile marketing tools available. Nearly every industry can use animation to communicate ideas more clearly and engage audiences more effectively.

Some of the industries that regularly invest in animation services include:

Technology Companies

Software platforms frequently use animation to demonstrate features, explain workflows, introduce new products, and simplify technical concepts.

Healthcare Organizations

Hospitals, medical device manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare startups often use animation to explain treatments, procedures, and complex medical information in ways patients can easily understand.

Manufacturing Companies

Animation helps manufacturers visualize products that are difficult to photograph, demonstrate internal mechanisms, or showcase industrial equipment in operation.

Educational Institutions

Schools, universities, and online learning companies use animation to increase student engagement and improve knowledge retention.

Financial Services

Banks, insurance providers, fintech companies, and investment firms use animation to simplify financial concepts that might otherwise intimidate prospective customers.

Nonprofit Organizations

Animation enables nonprofits to tell emotional stories while explaining their mission, fundraising campaigns, and community impact.

Real Estate Developers

Animated walkthroughs and architectural visualizations help potential buyers experience developments before construction is complete.

Because animation is adaptable across so many industries, a professional animation service can customize the creative approach to match virtually any audience or communication objective.

How Animation Services Improve Marketing ROI

One reason animation continues to grow in popularity is its ability to generate value long after production is complete.

Unlike many forms of advertising that disappear after a campaign ends, an animated video can continue generating leads, educating customers, and supporting sales efforts for years.

Businesses often use a single animated video across multiple channels, including:

• Company websites
• Landing pages
• YouTube
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Trade show displays
• Email marketing campaigns
• Sales presentations
• Investor presentations
• Product launches

Repurposing one professionally produced animation across multiple marketing channels significantly increases its return on investment.

A quality animation service can also create alternate edits, shorter versions, square formats, vertical videos, and social media cutdowns to maximize the usefulness of every project.

What To Look For When Comparing Animation Services

Not every animation service delivers the same level of quality or customer experience.

Before hiring an animation company, consider asking these important questions:

Do They Produce Custom Artwork?

Some studios rely heavily on templates or stock assets.

Others create every illustration specifically for your project.

Custom artwork generally produces a more memorable and professional final product.

Can They Produce Multiple Animation Styles?

A versatile animation service should be capable of producing:

• 2D animation
• Motion graphics
• Whiteboard animation
• Character animation
• Isometric animation
• 3D animation
• Product visualization
• Kinetic typography

A broad portfolio demonstrates creative flexibility.

Is Their Production Process Transparent?

Professional animation services clearly explain every production milestone, review stage, timeline, and approval process before work begins.

This transparency helps avoid surprises later in the project.

Do They Offer Revision Opportunities?

Animation is highly collaborative.

Look for an animation service that provides structured review opportunities throughout scriptwriting, storyboarding, illustration, voiceover, and animation production instead of waiting until the final video is complete.

Video Igniter offers unlimited revisions for certain types of projects/

Can They Scale With Your Business?

If your company plans to create multiple videos throughout the year, choose an animation service capable of supporting ongoing production while maintaining consistent branding across every project.

Common Mistakes Businesses Make When Hiring an Animation Service

Choosing the right animation partner can make a significant difference in the success of your project. Here are several common mistakes businesses should avoid.

Choosing Based Only on Price

The lowest quote isn’t always the best value.

An inexpensive animation service may require compromises in scripting, design quality, animation smoothness, project management, or revisions.

Instead, evaluate overall value, portfolio quality, communication, and reliability.

Skipping the Discovery Phase

Some clients rush into production without clearly defining their audience or objectives.

Investing time upfront to clarify messaging typically produces stronger scripts and more effective videos.

Trying to Include Too Much Information

One of the biggest challenges in animation is deciding what not to include.

Professional animation services help simplify complex information into clear, engaging stories that viewers can easily understand.

Ignoring Brand Guidelines

Consistent typography, colors, iconography, and messaging help strengthen brand recognition.

Providing brand assets early helps your animation service create visuals that align with your existing marketing materials.

Frequently Asked Questions About Animation Services

What kinds of videos can an animation service create?

Professional animation services can produce a wide range of content, including:

• Animated explainer videos
• Product demonstrations
• Brand videos
• Corporate presentations
• Customer testimonials
• Educational videos
• Employee onboarding videos
• Internal communications
• Trade show videos
• YouTube videos
• Social media advertisements
• Kickstarter campaign videos
• Medical animations
• SaaS product demos

Is animation a good investment for small businesses?

Yes. Animation can help small businesses explain products, establish credibility, and compete with larger brands by presenting information in a polished, professional way.

Can an animation service match our existing branding?

Absolutely. A custom animation service can incorporate your company’s fonts, colors, logos, illustrations, and visual identity into every scene to create a cohesive brand experience.

How involved will I be during production?

Most professional animation services encourage collaboration throughout the project. Clients typically review and approve major milestones—including the script, storyboard, visual style, voiceover, and animation drafts—before production moves to the next phase.

Can one animation be updated later?

Yes. One advantage of working with a professional animation service is that many projects can be revised in the future if your branding, pricing, messaging, or product features change. Updating an existing animation is often more cost-effective than producing a completely new video.

Animation Production Resources

These guides and resources are popular among people reading about b2b animation production options:

• Video Igniter – The Animated Video Production Service Of The Future
• Which Animated Video Services Does Video Igniter Offer?
• Animated Video Production FAQ
• Explainer Video Services by Video Igniter

Still have questions about animation services?

Do you have a question about animation services that wasn’t addressed in this FAQ? Use this form to send us your question and we’ll follow up with an answer. We’ll also post the question and answer to this page so other people can benefit from the knowledge.

What is Video Igniter Animation?

Video Igniter Animation is an online animated video production service. By working with our team online, you can get your custom animated video produced faster and for less than hiring a brick and mortar animation studio.

We can help you create any kind of 2D animated video or 3D animation you can imagine. Check out our animated video portfolio!

Watch our explainer video on our home page to learn more about how we can help you create an animated video. For examples of the kinds of animation our team can produce, check out the demo reel below:

Looking For An Animation Service Company In The U.S.?

Video Igniter is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Animation Services Success Stories & Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it – these testimonials highlight Video Igniter’s reliability, creativity, flexibility and ability to deliver animations that exceed expectations. When you choose Video Igniter Animation, you can rest assured that you are working with a trusted and reputable studio.

“Video Igniter were very easy to work with and the entire process for creating and suggesting edits was seamless and stress-free. I would work with them again and would recommend to others looking to create a modern and stylish explainer video.

Clair Simpson – VP Marketing, Repool.com

“I run a video production company and outsource animation. The team at Video Igniter did a great job in taking the concept I very crudely drew out and making it into a beautiful animation. The review process was easy and their turnaround time was very quick. I’d def recommend them if you’re looking for an animation project.”

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

“Video Igniter offered us the critical combination of creative value, clear communication, and patience with stakeholder feedback. We ended up with truly high-quality design assets for our video series largely due to the extra level of commitment — and the right balance of efficiencies with flexibility in the process when called for.”

Larry Schlessinger – Sr. Creative Program Manager, Amazon Web Services

“Video Igniter came to us with a number of creative and engaging ideas and were able to create an exciting, impactful video in a short period of time. And the best part was that it cost much less than other options of similar quality. The video they made is a great marketing tool for us.”

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

Get in touch!

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video project.

Get a quote for us to create your animated video.

Looking for an explainer video company to make your video? Check out the top 20 reasons people love to hire Video Igniter.

Request access to our newest price sheet.

Create your Video Igniter account, fill out a creative brief for your video and we’ll begin production as soon as we receive your production deposit.