Higher education institutions are increasingly turning to explainer videos as a way to engage and inform their audience. These short, animated videos can be a powerful tool for explaining complex concepts, showcasing campus life, and promoting programs and services. However, creating an effective explainer video for higher education requires careful planning and execution to avoid common pitfalls. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common pitfalls in higher education explainer video production and provide tips on how to avoid them.
1. Lack of clear objectives: One of the most common pitfalls in higher education explainer video production is not having a clear understanding of the objectives of the video. Before starting production, it is important to clearly define the goals of the video and what you hope to achieve with it. Are you trying to attract prospective students, promote a specific program, or educate current students? Having a clear objective will help guide the overall direction and messaging of the video.
2. Overloading with information: Another common pitfall is trying to cram too much information into the video. Higher education explainer videos should be concise and focused, with a clear message that resonates with the target audience. Avoid overwhelming viewers with too much information or technical jargon. Instead, focus on highlighting the most important points and keeping the video engaging and easy to understand.
3. Neglecting storytelling: Storytelling is a powerful tool in explainer video production, yet it is often overlooked in higher education videos. By weaving a compelling narrative into the video, you can create an emotional connection with the audience and make the content more memorable. Consider using real-life examples, testimonials, or case studies to bring your message to life and make it more relatable to viewers.
4. Ignoring accessibility: Accessibility is a key consideration in higher education explainer video production, especially for institutions that cater to a diverse student population. Make sure your videos are accessible to all viewers, including those with disabilities. This may involve providing closed captions, audio descriptions, or transcripts to ensure that all students can access and understand the content.
5. Neglecting branding and consistency: Finally, it is important to ensure that your higher education explainer videos align with your institution's branding and messaging. Consistency in visual style, tone, and messaging will help reinforce your institution's identity and build trust with viewers. Make sure to use your institution's colors, logo, and fonts in the video, and maintain a consistent tone and style throughout.
By avoiding these common pitfalls and following these tips, you can create effective and engaging explainer videos for higher education that resonate with your target audience and help achieve your communication goals. Remember to always keep your audience in mind and tailor your content to meet their needs and preferences. Happy video production!