Make Your Explainer Videos from Scratch 

In a digital-first world where people scroll more and read less, grabbing and holding your audience’s attention is more challenging than ever. That’s where explainer videos come in—not just as a trendy marketing tactic, but as a proven, high-ROI communication tool. Whether you’re introducing a product, simplifying a complex concept, training employees, or converting leads, explainer videos offer a clear, engaging, and memorable way to deliver your message.

And the data backs it up:

• 95% of a message is retained when delivered via video, compared to only 10% when read as text.

• Companies that use video in their marketing grow revenue 49% faster than those that don’t.

• 88% of people say they’ve been convinced to buy a product or service by watching a brand’s explainer video.

• In B2B sectors, 70% of marketers report video as more effective at driving conversions than any other form of content.

Explainer videos are more than just eye-catching visuals—they’re strategic storytelling assets that break down complexity into clarity, emotion, and action.

At House Sparrow Films, we understand that every business has a unique story. Our explainer videos are custom-built from the ground up, helping companies like yours educate customers, align internal teams, and build lasting engagement.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your own explainer video from scratch—from defining your message to final delivery—so you can harness the full power of video for your business success.

1. Define the Purpose of Your Explainer Video

Before diving into production, it's crucial to identify the primary goal of your explainer video. Whether you’re selling a product, educating your team, attracting investors, or simplifying a service for your audience—clarity on your objective shapes everything else: tone, style, messaging, runtime, and distribution strategy.

Considerations:

• What action do you want viewers to take after watching?

• Who is your target audience?

• What problem does your product or service solve?

A well-defined purpose ensures that your video resonates with viewers and drives the desired outcomes.

5 core explainer video purposes for businesses:

• Customer elEducation and Product Clarity 

• Lead Generation & Conversion 

• Internal training & Onboarding

• Brand Awareness & Positioning

• Customer Support & FAQ Reduction

2. Craft a Compelling Script

The script is the backbone of your explainer video. It should be concise, engaging, and tailored to your target audience. A well-written script ensures that your message is communicated effectively and keeps viewers engaged throughout. No matter how sleek the visuals are, if your script falls flat, the video won’t perform. 

Tips for Effective Scriptwriting:

• Start with a hook to grab attention.

• Clearly explain the problem and how your solution addresses it.

• Use simple language and avoid jargon.

• Conclude with a strong call-to-action (CTA).

Remember, the average human attention span is just 8 seconds, so make every word count. 

4-Step Formula: The House Sparrow Explainer Script Structure

1.The Hook (0–10 seconds)

Grab attention fast by highlighting a pain point or unexpected stat.

Examples:

• “Managing payroll shouldn’t feel like decoding the Da Vinci Code.”

• “Did you know 70% of businesses overpay on cloud services each year?”

Pro Tip: Use empathy + surprise. This sets up relevance and stakes immediately.

2. The Problem (10–25 seconds)

Show the real-world friction your audience experiences.

Example:

• “Small business owners waste hours juggling spreadsheets, chasing invoices, and trying to stay compliant with shifting tax rules.”

Avoid fluff—make them feel seen.

3. The Solution (25–75 seconds)

Introduce your product/service as the clear, logical answer. Highlight features that align with benefits, not just specs.

Example:

• “That’s where StreamPay comes in. Our automated payroll platform handles tax filing, direct deposits, and compliance—so you stay focused on growing your business.”

Tone: Friendly, confident, helpful.

4. The CTA (75–90 seconds)

End with a clear call-to-action. What should the viewer do next?

Examples:

• “Start your free trial today.”

• “Schedule a demo in under 60 seconds.”

• “Learn how House Sparrow Films can bring your story to life.”

3. Choose the Right Style: Animation vs. Live-Action

One of the most important creative decisions when making an explainer video from scratch is choosing between animation and live-action. The style you choose isn’t just about aesthetics—it significantly affects engagement, clarity, tone, and production timelines.

Both formats have their strengths. The right one depends on your audience, budget, subject matter, and desired emotional impact. The visual style of your explainer video should align with your brand identity and the message you're conveying.

Animated Videos:

• Ideal for explaining abstract concepts or processes.

• Flexible and cost-effective.

• Easily updated or modified.

Live-Action Videos:

• Great for showcasing real products or services.

• Builds trust through human connection.

• Suitable for testimonials or company culture highlights.

Consider your audience and message when choosing the style. Sometimes, a hybrid approach combining both styles can be highly effective.

4. Focus on High-Quality Production

Quality production enhances credibility and keeps viewers engaged. Investing in professional voice overs, visuals, and editing can significantly impact the effectiveness of your explainer video.

Production Elements to Consider:

• Voiceover: Choose a voice that matches your brand's tone and resonates with your audience.

• Visuals: Use clear and consistent visuals to support your message.

• Editing: Ensure smooth transitions, appropriate pacing, and synchronization between audio and visuals.

High-quality production not only retains viewer attention but also reflects positively on your brand's professionalism.

Why Quality Matters

• 62% of consumers are more likely to have a negative perception of a brand with poor video quality.

• A polished explainer video increases conversion rates by up to 80% when placed on a landing page. 

• Viewers are 75% more likely to watch a video to the end if the production quality is professional-grade. 

Element that Define High-Quality Production

1. Crisp, professional visuals 

2. Crystal-Clear Audio

3. Expert Editing

4. Cohesive Branding 

5. Optimised Runtime and Structure 

5. Strategize Distribution and Measure Performance

Creating a compelling explainer video is just the beginning. To maximize its impact, you need to get it in front of the right audience, on the right platforms, at the right time, and track how it performs. Strategic distribution paired with performance measurement ensures your video doesn’t just look good—it drives business results.Additionally, measuring performance helps in understanding its impact and areas for improvement.

Strategic Distribution: Where, When, and How

Each platform serves a different purpose and audience mindset. Here's how to leverage them effectively:

1.Website Landing Pages

• Why: Visitors already have intent—your video helps convert.

• Tip: Place the video above the fold for max visibility.

• Stat: Videos on landing pages can increase conversion by up to 86%

2. Social Media Platforms

• LinkedIn: B2B audiences, product/service intros, industry thought leadership

• Instagram & Facebook: Great for short, engaging cuts or teaser versions

• YouTube: Excellent for SEO, long-tail discovery, and evergreen engagement

• Tip: Tailor video length, format, and messaging to each platform's style

3. Email Campaigns

• Embed explainer videos in newsletters, drip campaigns, or onboarding emails

• Including “video” in subject lines can increase open rates by 19%

4. Internal Training or Sales Enablement

• Use explainer videos for onboarding, internal tutorials, or sales training

• Host on LMS or internal platforms like SharePoint or Notion

5. Paid Ads and Retargeting

• Use shortened versions (15–30 sec) for YouTube pre-rolls, LinkedIn Ads, or Google Display Network

• Retarget site visitors with explainer snippets to boost funnel conversion

Conclusion: From Idea to Impact—Make Every Frame Count

Creating an effective explainer video isn’t just about throwing visuals and voiceovers together. It’s about crafting a purpose-driven communication tool that simplifies complex ideas, resonates with your target audience, and drives tangible results for your business.

From defining the right purpose and writing a laser-focused script, to choosing the best style, maintaining high production standards, and strategically distributing and tracking performance—each stage is an essential piece of a larger strategic puzzle.

Essentials points: 

• A clear purpose sets the foundation for relevance and resonance

• A compelling script transforms viewers into believers

• The right video style ensures your brand’s message shines

• High production quality earns attention and builds trust

• Smart distribution and performance tracking convert creativity into ROI

Partner with House Sparrow Films: Experts in Business-Driven Video Content

At House Sparrow Films, we specialize in producing explainer videos that elevate your brand, engage your audience, and make your message unforgettable. As a multimedia content-as-a-service provider, we combine strategic storytelling, premium production, and data-informed distribution—all under one creative roof.

Whether you’re a startup trying to explain your product, a large enterprise streamlining training, or a content-focused brand simplifying services—we’re here to bring your vision to life.