As a Lead Project Manager at Scroll Studio, I live in timelines. I have seen the smooth successes and the nightmares that drag on for six months.
This guide is your roadmap. We are going to break down exactly what a SaaS explainer video is and the exact step-by-step process we use. This guide is part of our comprehensive SaaS video marketing strategy.
What is a SaaS Explainer Video?
It is not a tutorial. It is your elevator pitch on steroids. Its job is not to teach the user how to use the software, but to convince them that they need it. Learn the difference between product demos and explainer videos.
Step 1: The Script (The Blueprint)
We cannot animate a bad script into a good video. Use the "Problem -> Solution -> Benefit" framework:
- The Hook (0:00-0:15): Validate the pain.
- The Pivot (0:15-0:45): Introduce your software as the antidote.
- The Benefit (0:45-1:15): sell the outcome, not the feature.
Tip: Get final sign-off from all stakeholders before animation starts.
Step 2: Determining the Length
The industry standard sweet spot for a homepage asset is 60 to 90 seconds.
- Under 60s: Good for social ads.
- 60-90s: Perfect balance of story and UI.
- Over 2 mins: Dangerous. Retention plummets unless it's a deep-dive.
Step 3: Storyboards & Style Frames
This is where words turn into images. We create a sketch for every scene (Storyboard) and polished, colored images (Style Frames) to define the look. The choice between 2D and 3D animation is made here. This is your last "cheap" exit ramp to make changes.
Step 4: Animation & Sound Design
Motion: We add physics, easing, and transitions. Good motion graphics can make or break your video.
Sound Design: The unsung hero. We layer Voiceover, a Music Bed, and SFX to make the
world feel real.
Step 5: The Launch
Don't just upload and pray. Follow our complete guide to SaaS video launches for maximum impact.
- Embed "above the fold" on your homepage.
- Design a custom thumbnail.
- Add a GIF snippet to your welcome emails.
- Send to your sales team for pre-call education.
Wondering about video production costs? Check our pricing guide to budget appropriately.
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Need help managing the chaos?
At Scroll Studio, we manage the entire process for you—from script to final sound mix.