The Basics: What Are Whiteboard Explainer Videos?

What Are Whiteboard Explainer Videos?

In essence, however, whiteboard explainer videos are a visual storytelling that is simply a straightforward no-frill method of presenting a product service, or idea through the use of a whiteboard (or virtual) and a marker. Mostly represented in these videos is the drawing of a hand behind a screen that outlines while another hand narrates the explanation.

Whiteboard videos differ from traditional presentations or slideshow because they make use of in-motion visuals to get to the point quickly and efficiently. It visually engages and pulls the attention, it also guides the viewer over the content for clarity and understanding.

Whiteboard explainer videos are simply the intersection of storytelling, with visual elements to keep the viewer glued and complex ideas explained in simple terms. They make complex things understandable for people who are marketing, training or educationally using them.

A Real-World Example:

Imagine you’re launching a new app that helps people track their carbon footprint. Explaining the app’s features and benefits in a 60-second whiteboard video is far more engaging than a dry product description. The viewer watches as an animated hand sketches a tree, a car, and a house—all while narrating how the app helps users reduce their environmental impact. Simple, clear, and memorable.

Why Whiteboard Videos Work: The Science Behind the Magic

It doesn’t matter: you’ve watched yourself daydream in a meeting, or you’ve skimmed through a 10-page report. You're not alone. Heavy information isn’t meant to be absorbed in long, text-heavy formats by our brains. Whiteboard explainer videos work so well because that’s why. It takes advantage of your brain’s preference for seeing rather than just hearing — and that makes it easier to remember and understand the stuff.

There’s also research that when the storytelling and visuals are combined the message is more likely to stick. If you want to make sure your audience not only reads the information, but they remember it too after the video’s over, it’s important.

Take this simple example: Suppose, for example, you're introducing a new software tool that promises to save businesses time. In a traditional corporate presentation, explaining the tool may confound or numb your audience. A whiteboard explainer video would change that message into a dynamic visual experience: we see how the software is simplifying processes by drawing on clear, simple drawings and concise narration.

Are Whiteboard Explainer Videos Still Effective?

Absolutely! Their effectiveness has only grown in tandem with the increasing relevance of visual material in today's information-rich environment. Consider this: how frequently do we skim over articles or extensive explanations without thinking twice? The typical human attention span is less than ever, and whiteboard films offer an immediate answer to this issue.

Here's why whiteboard explainer videos are still effective:

1. They Simplify Complex Ideas:

People don’t just want information; they want it simplified. Whiteboard explainer videos break down complicated topics into bite-sized chunks, using visuals to reinforce key concepts. Take something as complex as blockchain technology—a whiteboard explainer can make it accessible to anyone, regardless of their technical background.

2. Increased Engagement:

Studies show that viewers retain more information when it's delivered visually. With their sketching style and narrative flow, whiteboard videos combine the power of visuals and audio, making the content easier to understand and more likely to be remembered.

3. Cost-Effective and Versatile:

While high-quality animation can be expensive, whiteboard explainer videos are relatively cost-effective. Plus, they can be used in a wide range of contexts: from marketing pitches and social media campaigns to employee training and educational resources. Whether you’re a startup or a large corporation, they fit various budgets and needs.

4. Boost in Conversion Rates:

When it comes to marketing, whiteboard explainer videos are proven to boost conversions. According to a study by Wyzowl, 74% of viewers who watched an explainer video about a product or service went on to purchase it. That’s powerful evidence of their influence on buying decisions.

Read More: How To Make Engaging Explainer Videos That Sell

How to Make Whiteboard Explainer Videos

Creating a whiteboard explainer video may sound like a daunting task, but it’s surprisingly straightforward if you break it down into manageable steps. Here’s a practical guide on how to get started:

1. Define the Purpose and Audience:

Before you even think about sketching out visuals, you need to determine the objective of the video. Is it to explain a new product? Demonstrate a concept? Or perhaps answer common customer questions? Knowing your purpose and target audience will guide every decision you make going forward.

2. Craft a Compelling Script:

The backbone of any great explainer video is a strong script. The narrative should be concise, clear, and free of jargon. Focus on a problem-solution approach:

• Identify the Problem: What issue are you addressing? Who faces this problem?
• Introduce the Solution: How does your product, service, or idea solve this problem? What benefits does it offer?
• Call to Action: What do you want the viewer to do next? Visit your website? Sign up for a free trial.

The script should be engaging yet straightforward, typically no longer than 90–120 seconds.

3. Plan the Visuals:

The visuals are what make the whiteboard video memorable. Even though they’re simplistic, the drawings need to enhance the message, not distract from it. Consider working with a storyboard, which outlines each scene and the corresponding sketches. If you're not a professional artist, you can use online whiteboard animation tools or hire a freelancer to help.

4. Record the Voiceover:

A great voiceover can make or break the video. Ensure the voice is clear, friendly, and easy to understand. You want the narration to be engaging but not overwhelming. A warm, conversational tone often works best, especially when explaining complex ideas.

5. Add the Finishing Touches:

Once the visuals and voiceover are ready, combine them in editing software. Make sure the pacing matches the voiceover and the drawings flow logically. Add music or sound effects sparingly, ensuring they complement—not overpower—the message.

Tools You Can Use:

• Doodly: A popular tool for creating whiteboard animation videos without needing any artistic skills.
• VideoScribe: Another great option for whiteboard animations, known for its user-friendly interface.
• Animaker: A versatile platform that allows you to create whiteboard explainer videos and more.

Conclusion: Why Whiteboard Explainer Videos Are Worth the Investment

Whiteboard explainer videos are still an extremely powerful way for you to explain a new product, simplify a complicated concept, and get your brand seen in a visual first-world. But they’re quick, simple to grow, and powerful both for simplifying and communicating information in an instant digestible format.

Therefore, if you haven’t yet immersed yourself in whiteboard explainer video power, the time may have come. If people are looking for a distraction, they'll take it… so why not create a format with enough attention so that instead of getting lost in your message, they stay focused on you?

While whiteboard explainer videos are much easier to create than their explainer video counterparts, they also have a bit of a reputation for being quite expensive. That said, if you follow best practices and build whiteboard explainer videos well, there’s no reason you can’t put them to work to market, educate, and train with all the same force as a complicated set of explanations.

About Motion Marvels

Motion Marvels specializes in creating custom explainer videos specifically designed for Software as a Service (SaaS) businesses, offering an all-inclusive service that encompasses scriptwriting, animation, voiceover, and video editing.

Understanding complex concepts and turning them into engaging visual narratives are critical for brand awareness and customer acquisition, making Motion Marvels an essential partner for SaaS companies and organizations looking to elevate their marketing strategies.

Ready to transform your ideas into captivating explainer videos? Visit motionmarvels.com today!