Explainer Videos: The Ultimate Guide for Businesses in 2025

I. Introduction: Why Explainer Videos Matter More Than Ever

In a world where attention spans are shrinking and content is everywhere, one medium continues to rise above the noise: explainer videos.

From early-stage startups trying to pitch their MVP to enterprise-level SaaS platforms onboarding new users, explainer videos have become the go-to solution for capturing attention, simplifying complexity, and driving results. As we head deeper into 2025, the demand for video-first communication is no longer a trend — it’s a strategic necessity.

The Rise of Visual Communication in a Short-Attention-Span World

People now consume content in seconds, not minutes. According to recent studies, viewers retain 95% of a message when it's presented in a video versus only 10% when reading it in text. This shift has pushed businesses to move away from traditional blogs and PDFs and toward engaging, easy-to-digest videos that immediately connect with their audience.

II. What Is an Explainer Video?

An explainer video is a short, engaging video that clearly and quickly communicates a product, service, process, or idea. Typically 60 to 90 seconds long, explainer videos use a blend of visual storytelling, voiceover, and animation (or live footage) to simplify complex information — turning abstract concepts into compelling, easy-to-understand narratives.

A Brief History: From Startup Pitches to Mainstream Marketing

Explainer videos rose to popularity during the early 2010s with startups like Dropbox, which famously used a simple animated video to boost conversion rates by over 10%. Since then, the format has evolved into a standard marketing tool for businesses across every industry — from SaaS and eCommerce to education and healthcare.

Today, explainer videos serve as powerful entry-point content across the buyer journey — capturing attention on homepages, explaining features in product pages, and educating users post-sale.

Key Characteristics of a Good Explainer Video

An effective explainer video usually checks the following boxes:

• Short & Focused: Usually 60–90 seconds, never bloated

• Clear Message: One idea, one core benefit — no distractions

• Visual Storytelling: Shows, not just tells

• Conversational Script: Speaks like your audience does

• Strong CTA: Guides the viewer to take action next

If your explainer video isn’t clear within 30 seconds, it’s likely not working.

Explainer videos combine animation, storytelling, and sound to educate, entertain, and convert, all in under two minutes. They’re ideal for product overviews, onboarding flows, educational content, and sales enablement.

Comparison Table: Explainer Video Styles

Short vs. Long Explainer Videos: When to Use Each

Each style serves a different purpose. Choosing the right one depends on your audience, goals, and message.

III. Why Explainer Videos Work

Explainer videos aren’t just trendy — they’re backed by science, psychology, and real-world performance data. The reason they’re so effective lies in how the brain processes information, how stories drive action, and how visuals help people retain and remember complex ideas.

Let’s break it down.

The Psychology Behind Explainer Video Success

Humans are visual learners. In fact:

• 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual

• People retain up to 95% of a message when it’s delivered via video, compared to only 10% from text

• Viewers understand a message 60,000x faster with visuals than with written copy

Video activates both the auditory and visual centers of the brain, creating stronger memory formation and emotional connection — especially when it includes motion, narration, and story.

Storytelling: The Secret Sauce of Explainers

At their core, great explainer videos don’t just present facts — they tell stories.

Most follow this classic arc:

1. The Hook – capture attention with a relatable scenario

2. The Problem – highlight a pain point your audience feels

3. The Solution – reveal your product/service as the fix

4. The How – briefly show how it works

5. The Call to Action (CTA) – guide them to take the next step

This narrative flow taps into empathy, logic, and action — the same psychological levers used in sales, teaching, and persuasion.

Simplifying Complexity with Visual Clarity

Explainer videos excel at distilling abstract or technical ideas into visual metaphors and simple animations. Instead of a dense paragraph of copy, you get:

• Icons that represent concepts

• Motion graphics showing data flows or user journeys

• Screen recordings or mockups to demonstrate real interactions

• Voiceovers that humanize the explanation

This is why explainer videos are especially powerful for tech, SaaS, AI, and data-driven industries — they help turn “confusing” into “crystal clear.”

Real-World Results: What the Data Says

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

• Landing pages with videos see up to 80% more conversions

• Video drives a 157% increase in organic traffic from SERPs (Brightcove)

Bottom line: Explainer videos don’t just inform — they convert.

IV. Why Tech & SaaS Companies Rely on Animation

If you're in tech, SaaS, or AI — you already know the challenge: your product is powerful, but complex. Screenshots and bullet points can’t fully capture how it works or why it matters. That’s where animated explainer videos shine.

Animation makes the intangible feel intuitive.

The Challenge: Explaining Complexity Simply

Tech products often involve abstract concepts like:

• APIs and integrations

• Automation workflows

• Machine learning models

• Dashboards and analytics

• Invisible back-end logic

Trying to explain these in text or static visuals can overwhelm your audience — especially prospects who are non-technical decision-makers. Animation bridges that gap.

SaaS Explainer Trends in 2025

• 2D animation remains the most popular for cost-effectiveness and style flexibility

• 3D & motion UI is on the rise for high-end product storytelling

• UI-driven animations (mocked-up dashboards with motion overlays) help show real product interactions

• Voiceover + subtitle pairing helps adapt to silent autoplay and accessibility standards

Companies often repurpose one core animated explainer for:

• Homepage hero section

• Product detail pages

• Email nurture campaigns

• Sales decks

• Onboarding flows

Why Animation Wins for Tech

Explainer videos aren’t just engaging — they’re revenue-driving assets. When used strategically, they improve metrics across your marketing, sales, and customer experience funnel. From increased conversion rates to higher user retention, explainer videos play a direct role in business growth.

Let’s break down how.

Better Engagement → Longer Dwell Time

When someone lands on your homepage or product page, you have seconds to convince them to stay.

A compelling explainer video increases:

• Time on page

• Scroll depth

• Engagement with CTAs

Stat to know: Pages with video experience up to 88% longer average time on site (Forbes)

Why it works: People are more likely to watch a quick, visual explanation than read a wall of text.

Explainer Videos increase Conversion Rates

Whether it's a sign-up, purchase, or demo request — explainer videos move the needle.

• Landing pages with videos can see up to 80% higher conversions

• Emails with the word “video” in the subject line get 19% more opens

• Explainers on pricing pages reduce bounce and increase trial signups

💡 Tip: Position your explainer video above the fold with a clear CTA nearby.

Use Cases in B2B and B2C

B2B examples:

• SaaS platforms using videos to explain features during onboarding

• Tech companies using explainers in sales decks and product launches

B2C examples:

• eCommerce brands simplifying how their product works

• Health and wellness apps guiding new users through functionality

Regardless of the market, explainer videos help businesses:

• Shorten the sales cycle

• Reduce support questions

• Increase trust and clarity

V. How Explainer Videos Boost Business Outcomes

VI. Use Cases: Product, Education, Training, Sales

Explainer videos are incredibly versatile — and their power extends far beyond just homepage promos. From product launches to employee onboarding, they’re used across departments to simplify, educate, and convert.

Here’s how different teams and industries use explainer videos to drive real results.

Product Marketing: Drive Awareness & Adoption

Product marketers love explainer videos for one simple reason: they help people understand and want what you're offering — fast.

Use cases include:

• New feature announcements

• Product launch videos

• App walkthroughs

• Comparisons or upgrades

💡 Example: A SaaS company releases a new dashboard feature → 60-second explainer shows how it works + why it saves time → embedded in blog, email, and in-app.

Result? Higher feature adoption, lower confusion, and fewer support requests.

Education & Training: Learn Faster, Retain Longer

Explainer videos are highly effective in teaching — especially when used in:

• Online courses & learning platforms

• K–12 and higher education content

• Corporate training & compliance

• HR onboarding

Popular styles for education:

• Whiteboard animation – great for step-by-step concepts

• Screencasts – ideal for tool or platform demos

• Character-based 2D – engaging for younger audiences

Viewers retain 95% of a message when they watch it in a video, compared to 10% when reading text.

Internal Training & HR: Scale Learning Company-Wide

Whether you're onboarding 10 or 1,000 new employees, explainer videos allow you to:

• Deliver consistent training

• Reduce time spent in 1:1 walkthroughs

• Make internal policies and benefits engaging and digestible

Common use cases:

• Onboarding new hires

• Compliance and safety training

• Culture and values education

• Performance management tutorials

  Pro Tip: Create an internal explainer series for each department.

Sales Enablement: Sell with Simplicity

Explainer videos help sales reps close deals by:

• Clarifying the offer

• Answering common objections visually

• Adding credibility in pitches and follow-ups

Use in:

• Email prospecting

• Product demo prep

• Sales presentations and decks

• Proposal follow-ups

Sales teams report shorter cycles and fewer “I don’t get it” moments when video is used early in the buyer journey.

Results Snapshot

Use Case Comparison Table

VII. How to Write an Effective Explainer Video Script

Behind every great explainer video is a tight, well-structured script. It’s not just about sounding good — it’s about guiding your viewer from curiosity to clarity to action, all within 60–90 seconds.

Let’s break down how to write a script that informs, engages, and converts.

The Anatomy of a Winning Explainer Script

Whether you're explaining a product, a process, or a concept, most explainer video scripts follow this proven structure:

1. Hook
   Grab attention in the first 5 seconds.
   “Ever wonder why your reports are always late — even with the best tools?”

2. Problem
   Show you understand your viewer’s pain point.
   “Most project dashboards don’t talk to each other. That means double data entry and missed deadlines.”

3. Solution
   Introduce your product or idea and how it solves the problem.
   “With FlowSync, your tools sync automatically — no extra clicks, no missed updates.”

4. How it Works (Optional for Short Videos)
   Briefly walk through core features, steps, or benefits.
   “Just connect your apps, choose your workflows, and let FlowSync handle the rest.”

5. Call to Action (CTA)
   Tell the viewer exactly what to do next.
   “Try FlowSync free for 14 days — and finally enjoy real-time collaboration.”

This flow works for any industry, from SaaS to education to healthcare.

Tone, Clarity, and Storytelling Devices

Keep it clear, concise, and human. Use:

• Conversational language

• Relatable metaphors

• A single, consistent point of view

• “You”-focused framing

Tip: Add a character or scenario (even in B2B) to help contextualize the problem and solution. People remember stories more than specs.

CTA Tips That Drive Action

• Keep it direct: “Start your free trial,” “Book a demo”

• Add urgency: “Limited spots available”

• Reinforce benefit: “Get clarity in 60 seconds”

Avoid vague CTAs like “Learn more” unless it’s the only option.

Sample Script :

“Tired of managing five apps just to update your team?
With Taskly, you can plan, track, and collaborate — all in one place.
No more bouncing between tabs.
Start your free trial today and take back your time.”

Script Length Guidelines: Video Length vs. Word Count vs. Use Case

Your video’s length determines how much you can say — and how fast you should say it.

VIII. Where to Use Explainer Videos in Your Business

Creating a high-quality explainer video is only half the battle — the other half is using it across your marketing and sales funnel to maximize visibility, engagement, and ROI.

Here’s where top-performing businesses are using their explainer videos to generate real impact.

1. Website Homepages & Landing Pages

Your homepage or product page is prime real estate. Placing an explainer video “above the fold” can:

• Increase time on page

• Reduce bounce rates

• Improve conversion rates

Stat: Landing pages with video can increase conversions by up to 80%.

Best practice: Use AutoPay without sound and include closed captions. Add a bold CTA below the video.

2. Email Marketing Campaigns

Adding an explainer video to an email:

• Boosts click-through rates by 2–3x

• Helps quickly explain product features

• Works great for onboarding sequences and product updates

Tip: Use a static thumbnail with a play button for better deliverability and link it to a hosted video page.

3. Sales Presentations & Demos

   Explainer videos are a powerful sales enablement tool:

   • Set context at the start of a pitch

   • Visually explain complex solutions

   • Provide a shareable resource for internal stakeholders

   Use in:

   • Pitch decks

   • Follow-up emails

   • Proposal documents

   Bonus: Embed in tools like Loom, Vidyard, or Google Slides.

4. Paid Ads on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram

Short-form explainer snippets (15–60 seconds) are ideal for:

• Driving traffic to a product page

• Introducing your brand

• Capturing cold leads with simple value messaging

Use case: A 30-second animated ad showing how your tool solves a key pain point → CTA to a landing page with full explainer.

5. Social Media Content & Reels

Your explainer video can be repurposed into:

• Instagram Reels & Stories

• LinkedIn posts

• YouTube Shorts

• TikTok explainer series

Best formats: Square (1:1) or vertical (9:16), with captions, clear hooks, and visual cues.

6. Customer Onboarding & Support

Explainers make post-sale experiences smoother:

• Help center tutorials

• Walkthroughs in onboarding flows

• FAQ and troubleshooting videos

Result: Fewer support tickets, faster activation, and happier customers.

7. Webinars, Product Updates & Events

Use explainer videos to:

• Kick off webinars with clarity

• Introduce new features during live demos

• Create hype ahead of product announcements

Tip: Play your explainer at the start of a demo — it sets the tone and saves time on explanations.

Funnel Map: Where Explainer Videos Fit

IX. DIY vs. Agency — Choosing the Right Partner

When it comes to creating explainer videos, businesses today have more options than ever. You can either go the DIY route using user-friendly tools, or partner with a professional agency to craft a polished, high-impact video. Both paths have pros and cons — and the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and timeline.

DIY Explainer Videos: Fast and Cost-Effective

Various online Tools like Vyond, Canva, and Animaker have video creation. They offer:

• Easy drag-and-drop interfaces

• Pre-built templates and assets

• Quick turnaround times

• Lower upfront costs

DIY is ideal if you:

• Need a simple video fast

• Have internal resources willing to learn

• Want to maintain full creative control

However, DIY videos can sometimes feel less polished or fail to hit the emotional storytelling mark — especially if you’re new to scriptwriting, voiceovers, or animation.

Working with an Agency: Professional Quality and Strategy

Agencies bring expertise in:

• Crafting compelling scripts tailored to your audience

• Custom animation styles aligned with your brand

• High-quality voiceovers and sound design

• Strategic video marketing guidance

Partnering with an agency like Zaksab means you get a team focused on not just creating a video, but ensuring it drives measurable results — from engagement to conversions.

Agencies are a great fit if you:

• Want a standout, brand-aligned video

• Need complex animations or storytelling

• Are targeting competitive or technical markets

• Prefer a hands-off approach with professional management

Choosing What’s Right for Your Business

Ask yourself:

• What’s the main goal of this video?

• How important is brand polish and storytelling?

• Do we have in-house skills and time?

• What budget and timeline can we realistically commit?

If you’re unsure or want to explore options, Zaksab offers a free initial consultation to help businesses define their video strategy and decide the best path forward.

X. Measuring Success — Key Metrics & ROI

Creating an explainer video is an investment — and like any investment, you want to ensure it delivers real business value. That means tracking the right metrics to understand how your video performs and how it impacts your bottom line.

Key Metrics to Track

• View Count
  How many people have watched your video? This is a basic indicator of reach and awareness.

• Watch Time & Completion Rate
  Are viewers watching the whole video or dropping off early? Higher completion suggests stronger engagement and relevance.

• Click-Through Rate (CTR)
  If your video includes a CTA (e.g., “Sign up now”), track how many viewers take that next step. CTR ties video views directly to conversions.

• Conversion Rate
  Beyond clicks, how many viewers complete your desired action—like filling a form, making a purchase, or subscribing?

• Bounce Rate & Dwell Time
  On landing pages with embedded videos, measure if users stay longer or explore more — signs that video content improves interest.

• Social Shares & Comments
  On social platforms, these interactions indicate how well your video resonates and spreads organically.

A/B Testing Your Explainer Videos

Try testing different video versions to optimize performance:

• Alternate hooks or intros

• Different video lengths

• Varied CTAs

• Animated vs. live-action styles

Use tools like Google Optimize, Wistia, or Vidyard for A/B testing and heatmap tracking.

Agencies are a great fit if you:

• Want a standout, brand-aligned video

• Need complex animations or storytelling

• Are targeting competitive or technical markets

• Prefer a hands-off approach with professional management

Using Heatmaps and Scroll-Depth Analytics

Heatmaps can show where viewers focus their attention during a video or page visit. Scroll-depth tracking reveals how far visitors scroll down your page. These insights help refine video placement and content for maximum impact.

XI. Trends to Watch in 2025

The explainer video landscape is constantly evolving. Staying on top of the latest trends can help your business create more engaging, relevant, and high-impact videos in 2025 and beyond.

1. AI-Generated Videos and Voiceovers

   Artificial intelligence is transforming video production by enabling:

   • Automated script generation

   • AI voiceovers with natural-sounding speech

   • Quick video editing and personalization

   This means faster turnaround times and lower costs, making explainer videos accessible for businesses of all sizes.

2. Short-Form Explainers for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Youtube Shorts

   With the explosive growth of short-form video platforms:

   • 15–60 second explainer snippets are becoming essential

   • Content needs to be punchy, clear, and visually captivating

   • Use vertical formats (9:16) optimized for mobile viewing

   Brands are repurposing longer explainer videos into bite-sized clips to capture fast-scrolling audiences.

3. Search Generative Experience (SGE) and Voice Search Optimization

   As search engines evolve to feature more video content and voice interactions:

   • Optimizing explainer videos for voice search queries is crucial

   • Using transcripts, captions, and structured metadata boosts discoverability

   • Videos answering specific FAQs have higher chances of appearing in search snippets

Conclusion

Explainer videos are no longer just a “nice to have” — they’re a powerful, proven tool for grabbing attention, simplifying complex ideas, and turning viewers into customers.

From SaaS startups to educators to enterprise marketers, brands that invest in clear, compelling explainer videos consistently see stronger engagement, more conversions, and better ROI across the board.

Whether you're just starting out or refining your video marketing strategy, the right tools and guidance can make all the difference.

Let’s Build Something That Works

Want expert help with strategy, scripting, or production?

We craft explainer videos that don’t just look good — they perform. Whether you need one video or a full series, we’re ready to bring your story to life