What is 2D animation? A beginner’s guide to getting started

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the verb “animate” has two definitions: “To animate something or someone is to give (a film or character) the appearance of movement using animation techniques” and “To describe action as having the ability to come to life”.

Creating a “semblance of movement” involves creating a sequence of images—whether drawn, painted, or otherwise created by artistic means—that are slightly different from each other. Displayed in chronological order, these images create the illusion of changing shape and movement. What does the entire 2D animation process look like? What is the difference between Traditional Animation and Modern Animation and what kind of remuneration can specialists in this field expect?

Definition and history of 2D animation

2D animation is the art of creating movement within a two-dimensional space, encompassing characters, creatures, effects, and backgrounds. This medium achieves the illusion of movement by sequencing individual drawings over time. The origins of 2D animation date back to the late 19th century, with pioneers like Émile Reynaud and J. Stuart Blackton experimenting with sequential images to create motion, laying the groundwork for a revolutionary artistic medium.

Over time, 2D animation has evolved from hand-drawn frames to the use of digital technology, with modern tools like Toon Boom Harmony and Adobe After Effects enabling more efficient production while maintaining the medium’s timeless appeal.

Animated characters - 2D animation walk cycle

In the world of 2D animation, animators work their magic by making characters, objects, and backgrounds move in a flat, two-dimensional environment. But it’s not just about drawing. These artists must also be great storytellers! Their job is to make sure that the way a character moves tells a clear story or message that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Gallery @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

Origins and evolution – history of animated films

In its early days, 2D animation was a painstaking process involving hand-drawn frames, with each second of animation typically divided into 24 frames.

Depending on the style, animators might use as many as 24 unique drawings per second (24fps) or as few as two, with the conventional approach, known as “on 2s”, involves creating a drawing every two frames (12fps) to save on production time and costs.

This traditional method has evolved significantly, with the advent of digital tools allowing for more complex and visually stunning animations (for example the implementation of digital techniques using computer software like Toon Boom Harmony or Adobe After Effects. ). The medium’s evolution has not only enhanced its visual capabilities but also expanded its applications across various platforms, from classic films like Disney’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” to modern digital content.

Timeless appeal and nostalgia

2D animation holds a cherished place in the hearts of all generations, evoking nostalgia and a sense of familiarity. Classic animations Disney’s remind us of the enduring charm of 2D animation.

2D animation - Gif

@ Copyright by Disney

Its versatility allows it to span multiple genres, from children’s tales to adult narratives, and its accessibility makes it an excellent entry point for aspiring animators. Despite technological advancements, 2D animation’s timeless appeal endures, offering a nostalgic and emotionally resonant experience.

2D animation today

2D animation is making a comeback and is more popular and diverse than ever! It can be found everywhere, from TV shows and video games to feature films, commercials, mobile apps and websites. Modern companies like Explain Visually and their hits like Vector animation for Mitsubishi Electric, Flobotics or Animation 2D for Opomarket are prime examples of its success. Even social media platforms like Snapchat are getting in on the action with brilliant 1-3 minute animated 2D episodes, and the gaming world is buzzing with 2D platformers like “Cuphead”.

You might not notice it right away, but animations are all around us on the Internet! From ads to entertainment, they play a huge role in enhancing our online experience.

He highlights the rapid evolution of the medium, with television animation booming and streaming services constantly on the hunt for new content.

These examples reflect the broad applications of 2D animation across various industries, from marketing and education to entertainment, highlighting its ability to engage audiences and convey messages effectively.

The demand for talented 2D animators has skyrocketed over the past decade. There’s a growing need for skilled artists who love motion graphics and can create original, engaging content that captivates audiences.

Visit our Explain Visually services page to learn how we help brands make their mark on the world with 2D animation.

Also check out: Animation vs. Illustration: Which is More Effective [Based on Research]

Types of 2D animation

Traditional animation (cel animation)

The classic Mickey Mouse cartoon @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

Traditional animation, also known as hand-drawn or classical animation, is a time-honored animation technique where each frame is meticulously crafted by hand to create the illusion of motion. This process often involves drawing each frame on paper, which is then transferred onto transparent sheets known as cels. These cels are layered over static backgrounds to produce a complete scene.

Each frame captures incremental movements, which, when played in sequence, result in fluid motion. This painstaking process requires immense skill and patience, as animators must draw thousands of frames to complete a single animated feature.

Modern animation

In contrast to traditional methods, modern 2D animation leverages the power of computers to enhance and streamline the animation process. This digital approach allows animators to create characters, backgrounds, and animations using specialized software such as:

  • Adobe Animate,
  • Toon Boom Harmony,
  • After Effects.

These programs offer tools that simplify the animation process, such as vector-based drawing, rigging systems, and motion tweening, which reduce the need for frame-by-frame drawing.

A fascinating fact about modern animation is its ability to integrate with other digital technologies, enabling the creation of interactive animations for video games, mobile apps, and websites. This evolution has expanded the scope of 2D animation, making it a versatile medium for various applications, from entertainment to education and marketing.

Interesting facts

Modern 2D animation software can simulate traditional techniques, allowing artists to create animations that retain the charm of hand-drawn work while benefiting from digital efficiency.

Read more: Animated ads – types, examples, prices.

What is the difference between 2D and 3D animation?

2D and 3D animation are two distinct forms of animation that differ in several key aspects, including their visual style, production process, and applications.

2D vs 3D: "Frozen" @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

Visual style

2D animation is a style that involves creating images in two dimensions, focusing on the X and Y axes. It usually has a flat appearance and is often more stylized and cartoonish. Characters and objects are drawn frame by frame, either by hand or using computer software.

2D vs 3D: "Tangled" @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

3D animation, on the other hand, involves creating images in three dimensions, adding depth (the Z axis) to the X and Y axes. This allows for more realistic and lifelike visualizations. 3D animation often involves modeling characters and environments in a 3D virtual space, providing a more immersive experience.

Production process

2D Animation generally involves drawing each frame individually, which can be less complex and quicker to produce.

3D Animation requires creating 3D models and rigging them for movement. This involves more complex software like Blender or Autodesk Maya and requires a deeper understanding of 3D modeling, texturing, and lighting. The process is more intricate and time-consuming, often involving a team of specialists.

Cost and time

2D Animation typically is more cost-effective and faster to produce than 3D animation. It requires less advanced technology and resources, making it a popular choice for projects with limited budgets.

2D vs 3D: "Beauty and the best" @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

3D Animation generally is more expensive and time-consuming due to the complexity of the production process. It requires powerful computers and specialized software, which can increase costs significantly (computer animation).

Read more: Price of an explainer video – how much does it cost and why?

The animation process

Let’s break down the production process of 2D animation. It should be noted that every animated film is produced differently, utilizing various techniques and technologies. But remember…

There is no singular “right” way to animate, and the steps described may be executed in different orders. What we present here is a widely practiced method in prominent animation studios like Disney, Dreamworks, and Ghibli.

The process of creating 2D animation is segmented into three distinct parts:

  • pre-production;
  • production;
  • post-production.

These stages include multiple sub-stages that are integral to building a comprehensive animated work.

2D pre-production stage – scripting and storyboarding

The pre-production stage includes finding inspiration, developing an idea, finalizing the script, and scheduling the production.

This stage consists of different mini-stages that are the building blocks of a complete animated work.

2D production stage – design and animation

In the production stage, the process includes designing and optionally:

  • composing theme songs,
  • storyboarding,
  • developing concept art,
  • recording voices,
  • animating,
  • applying ink and color.
"Bambi" Walt Disney producion @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

Each of these processes contains several sub-stages, which are crucial to constructing a complete animated piece.

Post-production stage – sound design and editing

The post-production stage of animation is a crucial phase where sound design and editing come together to enhance the final product.

  • Sound design and effects.
  • Recording and editing dialogue.
  • Sound mixing and final assembly.
  • Visual effects integration.
Rough animation Mirabel Madrigal @ Copyright by Disney

@ Copyright by Disney

The post-production stage is where all the elements of the animation come together, transforming separate components into a polished and cohesive final product. This phase requires close collaboration between sound designers, editors, and directors to ensure that the audio and visual elements work harmoniously to deliver the intended artistic vision.

Artistic and technical skills for 2D animation

2D animators must possess a strong foundation in drawing and illustration, as these skills are essential for creating expressive characters and dynamic scenes. They need to understand the principles of animation, such as timing, spacing, and squash and stretch, to bring characters and stories to life in a believable manner. Technical proficiency with 2D animation software, such as Adobe Animate or Toon Boom Harmony, is crucial for executing animations efficiently and effectively.

Additionally, animators should have a keen eye for detail and composition, enabling them to craft visually appealing and coherent scenes. Experience with storyboarding and character design can further enhance an animator’s ability to contribute creatively to a project, ensuring that the animation aligns with the overall narrative and artistic vision.

Career opportunities and salary expectations in 2D animation – job roles and industries

2D animators can find work in a diverse range of industries, including feature films, television shows, video games, and advertising. Within these sectors, animators may be employed by production companies, animation studios, or advertising agencies to create content for commercials, mobile apps, and websites.

The roles available in these industries are varied, ranging from animators and storyboard artists to character designers and background painters. As technology evolves, new roles continue to emerge, offering fresh opportunities for those entering the field.

Salary ranges and growth prospects

The salary expectations for 2D animators vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, and industry.

  • For entry-level positions, the average salary in the United States is approximately USD $43,000 per year. As animators gain experience and move into mid-level roles, the average salary increases to around USD $74,000. These figures can fluctuate depending on the specific industry and geographic location.
  • In Canada, entry-level animators can expect to earn between CAD $35,000 and $50,000, while mid-level positions offer salaries ranging from CAD $59,000 to $77,000.
  • In Australia and New Zealand, entry-level salaries start at AUD $48,000, with mid-level roles commanding between AUD $50,000 and $95,000.
  • In the UK, entry-level positions offer around GBP £24,270, with mid-level salaries ranging from GBP £36,000 to £47,500.

For senior, animation director or technical animators with extensive experience and specialized knowledge, salaries can exceed these averages significantly. Such roles often require advanced skills and a deep understanding of animation techniques, which can lead to higher compensation packages.

Overall, the growth prospects in the 2D animation industry are promising, with opportunities for advancement as animators gain experience and refine their skills. The potential for higher earnings increases with seniority and expertise, making it a rewarding career path for those dedicated to honing their craft. Note that these salary figures are averages and can vary considerably based on the specific role and market conditions.

Sources: prospects.ac.ukadzuna.co.ukcwjobs.co.uk; LinkedIn; instantoffices.com

2D animation in 2023 and 2024

2D Animation in 1940-2023

In 2023 and 2024, 2D animation is experiencing a renaissance, as it combines time-honored techniques with state-of-the-art technology. The trend of hybrid animations, which blend 2D and 3D components, is expanding creative horizons. Advanced tools like Adobe Animate and Toon Boom Harmony are now more capable than ever, facilitating efficient production processes and superior quality.

Additionally, the booming popularity of streaming services has led to an increased appetite for 2D animated content, marking an exciting era for animators and viewers alike.

2D animation with Explain Visually

Are you in search of a 2D animation studio? It’s important to carefully evaluate several key factors to ensure you select the right partner for your project.

  • Examine the studio’s portfolio to get a sense of their style, quality, and range of work. This will help you determine if their artistic vision aligns with your project goals.
  • Consider their pricing structure to ensure it fits within your budget. Transparent pricing can help avoid unexpected costs down the line.
  • Assess the studio’s capacity and ability to handle your project’s scope and timeline. A studio with adequate resources and a proven track record of managing similar projects can provide reassurance of timely delivery.
  • Evaluate their project volume and workload to ensure they can dedicate sufficient attention to your project.

By thoroughly considering these aspects, you can choose a 2D animation studio that best meets your specific needs and expectations.

Share:

About the author

Kamila Ołdakowska

I possess 3 years of experience in marketing, which I have been actively cultivating since the beginning of my second year of undergraduate studies, starting with a role at a consulting company. Currently, as a Marketing Specialist at Explain Visually, I apply my knowledge to devise strategies that enable companies to effectively communicate their core values through animations. My experience also encompasses content creation that drives companies toward their strategic goals. I am presently pursuing a master’s degree in project management, enhancing my ability to organize and execute complex marketing projects. I continually refine my skills by keeping up with the latest marketing trends, ensuring that my experience and contributions to each project are of the highest caliber.

Request a free quote

YouTube Ad Video Maker: Best Practices for Creating Effective Animated Ads

YouTube video ads are a form of advertising videos that appear on the YouTube platform, designed to promote products or services to a wide audience. These ads can be shown before, during, or after a YouTube video, grabbing the attention of viewers within the first few seconds. Using a YouTube ad video maker simplifies the process of creating these ads, allowing businesses to deliver impactful advertisements that engage their target market.

Expert video animation agency – Bringing Your ideas to life

Welcome to the world of animation! Your presence here suggests that you’re intrigued by our agency’s work and the services we offer. Animation it’s our passion and our life. The daily collaboration with our clients brings us immense joy and excitement. We’ve decided to create a comprehensive guide to share what we do, how our collaboration and animation creation process works, and the benefits of choosing Explain Visually. Let us take you on a journey through our animated universe!

Video Animation Service – benefits, types and costs

Introduction In today’s digital era, video animation services have become a pivotal tool for businesses across various industries. From marketing campaigns to educational content, animated video services provide a dynamic way to convey complex ideas and engage...

Legal Clarity: Demystifying Law with Animated Explanations

Introduction In the fast-paced business world, legal clarity is essential for success. Companies must navigate complex regulations, contracts, and requirements, where misunderstandings can lead to financial penalties, damaged reputations, and disruptions. Ensuring all...

Expert guide to animation video production – Best practices and trends

Animated film production has become an essential tool for businesses and content creators looking to engage audiences in the digital age. With their ability to simplify complex ideas, grab attention, and convey messages in visually compelling ways, animated films have become a powerful medium for marketing, education, and entertainment.

Expert video animation service: elevate Your brand story

Video animation has become an indispensable tool for brands looking to captivate audiences and convey complex messages with clarity and style. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, where attention spans are shorter than ever, animated content stands out as a powerful medium to engage viewers and leave a lasting impression.

Price of an explainer video – how much does it cost and why

​Explainer video costs usually range from €2,000 to €6,000. Many people wonder why there is such a wide price range and what factors influence the final price of the service. The style of the video, its length, and purpose are key elements that are taken into account...

Culinary creativity: animation in the food and beverage industry

Introduction The food and beverage industry is continually evolving, driven by changes in consumer preferences and technological advancements. In this dynamic environment, innovative marketing and educational tools are crucial for brands aiming to stand out and...

Retail Revolution: Enhancing Customer Experience with Animation

Introduction In today’s busy retail world, standing out means more than just having good products and services. The focus is now on making the customer experience great, which is key to being successful in retail. With technology moving fast, customers want shopping...

The Manifest Hails ExplainVisually as one of the Most-Reviewed Video Production Agencies in Poland!

There are many types of content that you can use depending on the results you want to achieve. Today, one of the most popular types of content is videos and they can be used to promote your services and products to tell the story of your brand. The possibilities are...

How did we help the Sperling TAX&LAW office increase website traffic and attract potential clients?

Who is the Client? Sperling is a renowned legal and tax consultancy firm based in Rzeszów, specializing in comprehensive services for small and medium-sized enterprises. They assist with legal and tax issues, ensuring clients receive professional and trustworthy...

Healthcare in motion: transforming patient education through animation

Introduction: The healthcare industry is changing rapidly thanks to new technologies that make it easier to care for patients and improve their health. One of the most exciting advancements is the use of animation in patient education. Explaining medical information...

Tech Tales: animation’s role in communicating complex IT solutions

Introduction: The Role of Animation in Contemporary Communication and Its Relevance in IT Animation has evolved significantly from its roots in entertainment to become a crucial tool in contemporary communication, especially within the information technology (IT)...

Beyond transactions: building trust with animated content in finance

Introduction In the finance sector, trust is the base upon which businesses build lasting relationships with their clients. Given the complexity of financial products and the significant impact these products can have on individuals' lives, ensuring that customers...

Services unleashed: the impact of animation in the service industry

 Introduction Animation has long captivated audiences with its ability to bring imagination to life, tracing its roots back to the earliest forms of visual storytelling. From the hand-drawn animations of Disney's golden age to the computer-generated imagery (CGI) of...

Lights, Camera, Production – Transforming Industries with Animated Visuals

Introduction In the fast-paced world of business, catching the eye and keeping it is not easy. That's where animated visuals step in, enabling effective communication. Picture this: a world where your message isn't just heard. But seen, felt, and remembered. Animated...

Animation in Social Media Marketing

In today’s digital world, video content dominates online platforms. As people swipe, scroll, and tap through endless content, the need for creating stand-out material has never been more critical. Social media is an ideal space for businesses to connect with their...

Animating Success: Revolutionizing B2B Marketing with the Power of Animation

Animation in B2B – a powerful tool for success. Discover it now!

How we helped SkuteczneRaporty.pl win new clients.

Company representative involved in the project: Academy founder Bartosz Czapiewski. Advisor, trainer and speaker specialising in the field of analysis and reporting. On top of EffectiveReports, Bartosz also runs the blogs SkuteczneRaporty.pl and ExcelBI.pl. Challenge:...

How we helped Bahlsen to educate its employees more effectively?

About the client: Bahlsen is one of the largest biscuit manufacturers in Europe, known in Poland because of brands such as LEIBNIZ, Krakuski and HIT. Size of the organisation: World - 2600 employees Company departments involved in the project: Communications...

How our materials helped Biocodex employees get the most out of their workshop?

About the client: Biocodex is a French pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures, and distributes world-class pharmaceutical products and health solutions to patients in more than 120 countries. Biocodex subsidiaries are spread all over the world. One of them...

How we helped VIDA demonstrate the competitive advantage of their offering?

About the client: VIDA provides cyber security solutions powered by artificial intelligence. Size of the organisation: More than 20 employees. Company departments involved in the project: Marketing Department, Technical Department, Sales DepartmentChallenge: Many...

How we helped SHARP inform the market about its new air purifier

About the client: SHARP is a global consumer electronics manufacturer originating from Japan. Size of the organisation:  Poland - 500+ employees World - 48,000+ employees Company departments involved in the project: End client: Sharp Consumer Electronics Marketing...

The Manifest Names ExplainVisually as one of the Most Reviewed Video Production Agencies in New York

The ExplainVisually team is delighted to announce that we’ve been recently recognized by The Manifest as one of the most-reviewed video production agencies in New York. We are proud to be part of this list and excited to finally unveil this with all of you. This...

Animation that helped Flobotics get prospective clients to interact with their website

About the company: Flobotics is an RPA (Robotics Process Automation) development consulting company that automates dual and repetitive business processes for companies worldwide, focusing especially on healthcare and finance industry. Company size:11-50 employees...

Visual thinking in business – what it is, how it works and how it can help

What is visual thinking? Imagine this situation... You get up in the morning. You reach for your cell phone and there is a black and white screen and a wall of text. You walk over to your desk and check your planner. A wall of text again! Even the division into days...

Hybrid animation – what it is, advantages, examples

Hybrid animation is, in simple terms, the integration of 2D and 3D animation. This combination of different techniques allows you to take advantage of the benefits of each technique, and thus create a better animation.An example of hybrid animation is combining 2D and...

Communication in change management: how to improve it, and what to keep in mind?

Research shows half of the company's change initiatives fail, and only 34% achieve the intended result. (Gartner, 2020) Where does resistance to change come from? Often workplace changes are perceived as “imposed” and unnecessary. No one likes imposed changes or...

Need help naming a product? Here’s how to find the best name for all your products

What’s in a name? Everything! Whether it’s the product or brand name, getting the perfect name is a critical aspect of product success. And we have a long list of terrible names to prove it.  Nintendo Wii U Drysack Wine  Nokia Lumia (Lumia means ‘prostitute’ in...

How we helped European Rover Challenge make an animation to attract sponsors

About the Client: European Rover Challenge (ERC) is the largest robotics and space event in Europe, organized since 2014. The multi-day event attracts students from universities, professionals working in the space sector and space enthusiasts from around the world...

How to write a script for an animation? 16 practical tips

Explaining how to write an animation script can take up a whole book! But if you are here, it means that you do not have time to go so deep into the topic. Therefore, in this text, I have compiled 16 practical tips on how to write an effective animation script. All...

Animation for Winaico that helped save salespeople time

About the company: Winaico is a German photovoltaic module manufacturer, that has been in existence since 2008. The company operates in Europe, USA, Japan and Australia. Company size: up to 100 people Company departments involved in the project: Country Manager...

How did we help Santander educate employees about the new way of designing the product?

About the company Santander Bank - the largest bank in the Eurozone Company size: Poland (11,000 employees), worldwide (190,000 employees) Company departments and people involved in the project: Service Design & Design Research Department: Head of Service Design,...

Animated video: 6 application examples

Animated video can serve various purposes. For example, it can advertise a new product of a company, help it enter the market, explain regulations to potential customers, or explain socially important issues to an illiterate population. This type of video is becoming...

Promotional Video Production: How to prepare to work with a studio to make your film a success

The stakes are high because the video will be shown at a trade show, a company event or during a video campaign. If the project doesn't make it to the clients, the money will go down the drain and the person responsible for the production may end up without a job!...

6 animation trends that will capture the market in 2022

When we compare animations from a dozen or so years ago with those created today, you can see the difference in the degree of advancement, and also in the style and graphics. This is largely a matter of fashion. Below I will list a few trends that I think will conquer...

How to choose an animation studio? 9 tips

Wybór studia animacji może przesądzić o sukcesie końcowego video. I choć tekst na ten temat pisany przez studio animacji z pewnością nie jest w pełni obiektywny, przykłady własne służą tylko zilustrowaniu poszczególnych kwestii. Niezależnie od tego, na jakie studio...

Brand videos: how they differ from other videos and how to make them… with examples

Perhaps you are wondering how to reach your customers effectively? How to make them see your brand's potential and answer their needs? A brand video may help. It is a video or animation that will:   Build brand awareness Include your logo and other distinctive...

16 interesting animations from 16 countries

The following list of animations from 16 countries worldwide is highly subjective. Each is interesting and unique for different reasons, which we write about in the text.England An animation released in 2018 by the British cookie company McVitie. The campaign...

Promotional videos for businesses – 6 types you need to know

Promotional videos are usually short advertising videos. They are designed to convince customers to buy a particular product or use a company's service. There are many types of promotional videos, but we present six of the most popular. Each can be filmed using either...

Animated ads – types, examples, prices

Animated ads are one of the most popular forms of video marketing. They are usually much cheaper to produce than a traditional film shot on camera. They also allow for greater creative freedom. Below we discuss the types of animated ads along with examples and prices...

Corporate video production – 7 sins not to commit if you want a boring video

Producing corporate videos often comes with high hopes. The company hopes to enhance its image, build trust among customers and excitement among employees. Unfortunately, the truth is that most corporate films are... boring. Why is this the case? And what can you do...

Visual Thinking in Business: 6 levels you can implement in your company [+Examples]

Myślenie wizualne to - w dużym skrócie - używanie wizualizacji, żeby ułatwić dostrzeżenie, zrozumienie i zapamiętanie informacji. Jego przejawy obserwujemy, gdy widzimy na trasie znaki drogowe, oglądamy infografiki czy projektujemy nowe produkty na warsztatach Design...

Podcast Visual Communication For Storytelling featuring Maciej Budkowski

Maciej Budkowski, Managing Directorof our company, got invited to The Business Storyteller Podcast by Piktochart. As we can read on their website: "this is a series of conversations with inspiring leaders and entrepreneurs to share their knowledge and experience in...

Visual thinking in business – what it is, how it works and how it can help

What is visual thinking? Imagine this situation... You get up in the morning. You reach for your cell phone and there is a black and white screen and a wall of text. You walk over to your desk and check your planner. A wall of text again! Even the division into days...

Corporate videos – 9 examples to help you create the best video for your company

You want to create a corporate video. You probably have a lot of questions. What to pay attention to? What is involved in the production of a video? How much do corporate films cost? If you type in "corporate films" in Google  over two million results come up. You...

Pictures vs. illustrations vs. instructional video – when to use what to make our instruction effective

Imagine you are sitting comfortably on a plane, reading a book. Suddenly you feel turbulence that is much stronger than usual. You start to get anxious, especially since you see people around you panicking. Then you hear the captain's voice from the speakers: "Please...

Customer Segmentation: The Cornerstone of SaaS Pricing

Most personas are eye-rollingly useless. Product Managers usually create these personas to satisfy Agile’s user story framework, adding nothing (or even causing harm) to the process of creating breakthrough products and offers. The managers who create these useless...

How to get people to follow the recommendations of the Ministry of Health, doctors and pharmacists? [Visual Thinking in Medicine]

You have a fever, you feel weak, and your cough is getting worse. Normally this wouldn't concern you, but there is a coronavirus raging in the world so you have doubts. Just in case, you call the hotline. The lady on the other end of the phone patiently explains what...

Sales enablement: what it is, why implement it and how to do it

Sales enablement is primarily about making salespeople's work easier and faster for them to achieve sales targets. How does it work in practice? It is a bit like the organization of a football club. Let's look at Robert Lewandowski. Before the Bayern star steps out...

How did we help 3S Group generate leads using animation?

About the company: 3S Group - Polish provider of telecommunication services, data center and ICT solutions, and part of PLAY operator since 2019.     3S Group supports the realization of its clients' business visions by designing and implementing ICT solutions....

How we helped Israeli startup to win a 1,000,000$

About the company: Seegnature (now Reach): Israeli startup that creates an application for remote discussion and signing of contracts. Department: Company Founders. Problem: Seegnature entered the competition for the best insurance startup in Israel. The company...

How did Michelin sell tires in a country with no cars? Three examples of big brand content marketing that shows the power of good content

Before 1900, there were only 3,000 cars in France. At that time, brothers André and Édouard Michelin decided to start a company that sold tires.[1] Sound like a recipe for failure? Probably many people thought so, as how do you sell tires to people who don't need...

6 things without which your sales support and sales materials will be ineffective

You know the scenario? The conversation is going well, and the customer is interested. Finally, the potential customer says to the salesperson: "Then please send an offer. I'm having a meeting with my boss/team/partner and I'll let you know what the response is." The...

Content marketing that supports sales – what is a content funnel and how to use it

After publishing an article about content marketing of three global giants: Michelin, Pirelli and Guinness, our subscribers were strongly surprised as not many knew the stories.   The artice has not yet been translated to English, but in a shortcut: - When...

How to maximize ROI of your explainer video (22 non-bullshit practical tips)

These are the insights we got after producing hundreds of explainer videos.  Before you start 1) Check if the ROI numbers add up. Sometimes they don’t.   The easiest formula to calculate ROI is: Predicted Reach (i.e. 10 000 people) x Avg. deal size (i.e. 100$) x...

Animation versus illustration: which is more effective [based on research]

Walt Disney said: "Animation can represent anything the human mind can imagine. This ability makes it the most versatile and direct form of communication. At the same time, it is created to be appreciated by mass audiences."[1] Although this quote comes from one of...

Whiteboard animation: Best Business Cases

Whiteboard animation videos are special animated films, which educate customers about a company, a brand or its products. They have been used by marketing, sales and HR departments of the biggest companies for 10 years, but only just starting to gain popularity in...

13 ideas for using animation in business – practical videomarketing

Well-crafted animation can help in many elements of business. Most often, it supports companies in acquiring leads, training employees, presenting a product or service to customers, implementing procedures, or increasing conversions. Since you've already invested in...

How to sell when your product is not much different from the competition?

"If there is no difference, there is only indifference" said Louis Nizer Customers may think the same when your products are not much different from the competition. Of course you can lower the price but this may start a price war. Thousands of companies have faced a...

Vegan food market in Poland

Imagine that you go to Facebook and there are pictures of sausages, kabanos to be exact, everywhere. They are posted by your friends, the fan pages you like, and strangers on groups you belong to. Sounds like science fiction? Meanwhile, it is reality as kabanos are...

Veganism, vegetarianism and marketing: how to advertise and sell vegan products?

Veganism is on the rise. There is no question about it. To give you just a few recent examples... New vegan product a sales hit The first example is the British bakery chain Gregg. I first heard of its existence when it released vegan sausage rolls and I read about it...

How our animation helped the „Wiecej niż LEK” website earn their first 100 000 EUR

About the project:  “Więcej niż LEK” is a Medical Information Portal which is used to run high quality e-learning courses for students and graduates of medical colleges, which prepare them for, among other things, for the Final Medical Examination and the Final...

How to calculate if the explainer video will pay off?

As we wrote earlier in the text about explainer video, the production of such an animation usually costs from 2 000 to 7 000 EUR. How to calculate whether this expense will pay off? And how to estimate the explainer video's possible results?   In this text, we...

7 examples of explainer video, which provided companies with leads and increased sales

Rypple, which provides cloud services, wanted to show that its solution increases the efficiency of managers and employees. The B2B business was showing more and more interest in modern ways of storing data, but the competition was not idle and more and more similar...

Product videos—types, prices, advantages and disadvantages (classic film, whiteboard animation, vector animation, and 3D animation)

Product videos are becoming more and more popular because they help to tell about the product in a few minutes. Thanks to them, the customer does not have to read a wall of text on the website or in the brochure. Sellers also feel relieved because they don't have to...

11 tips and tricks that will make it easier for you to make an explainer video

You want to commission a explainer video production. It is an important project because you need to talk about a strategic initiative, generate more leads, or implement a new procedure. You gave the company a general idea and...wait until they hit your vision? This is...

Our Team

Claudia Together with the late Michael (my fiancé at the time), I am a co-founder of ExplainVisually. At the beginning of the company's existence, I was a creative 3-in-1: I wrote scripts, storyboards, and drew films. This was the case with the first 84 films, but in...

The cooperation between TESCO and ExplainVisually has been extended to the Czech Republic and Slovakia

The shelves of supermarkets bend under the food. But what happens to food that is not bought? The last project in cooperation with TESCO brought us the answer to this question. We got a call from Gosia Tokarz, who asked us if we can prepare 7 by 2 meters infographics...

How did Millenium Bank educate its employees on standards of customer service? [Case Study]

About the company: Millenium Bank – one of the main banks in Poland, part of Banco Commercial Portuges. Department: Department of Quality–responsible for providing equal and high level of customer and sales service in the bank’s facilities.   Problem: Keeping the...

4 unobvious reasons that make your offer land in the basket

Thank you for the offer, we have decided to cooperate with another supplier;At this point we have suspended the project, we will contact you when we get back to it;Unfortunately, we are not interested. Every salesperson has heard these answers. Often, the reason for...

Our video telling a story about the most creative Polish School

Among dozens of projects that we have carried out this year, the film for the Kornel Makuszyński Elementary School in Radowo Małe is one of our favourites. And not only our favourite: the video scored over 1300 shares on Facebook. Why this project is so important to...

How did Orange tell their employees about the Continuous Improvement? [Case Study]

About the company: Orange – the biggest telecommunication operator in Poland and one of the main companies in the world, made it to the Fortune Global 500 list. Department: Customer Experience, trying to design the ideal customer experience and supporting the...

What is Graphic Recording (and Graphic Facilitation)?

When the lecturer starts his speech on the stage, the atmosphere of concentration fills the lecture hall. It is his name that brought the crowd to this conference. The slides complete his words, and hundreds of people are focused on him and try to remember as much as...

What is whiteboard animation (and how your business can benefit from it)?

Whiteboard animation is becoming more and more popular in business because of the clear and transparent way it provides information. Research shows that it has an advantage over text messages, and often also over static images and ordinary films. That is why it is...

What is explainer video (and how your business can benefit from it)?

  Explainer videos are short movies which explain complicated issues in an easy way. Typically they deliver information about companies, products and services. Today, explainer videos are used by thousands of companies around the world, including the largest...

The curse of knowledge: How it affects managers & marketers

Klątwa wiedzy jest efektem psychologicznym, który w ogromnym stopniu wpływa na naszą pracę oraz życie osobiste. W wielu wypadkach niestety negatywnie. Szczególnie narażone na jego skutki są osoby odpowiedzialne za komunikację w firmie – managerowanie, marketerzy,...

Goodbye to the best boss I’ve ever had

“I heard that you quit your job,” the words echoed in my ears. It was a call from Michał. How on earth did he already know?, I thought. It must have been our Lebanese friend who told him. He was the only person who knew. “Yes, that’s true. The message was being...

Klaudia Tolman of ExplainVisually in the jury of 50 Top Creative list

Klaudia Tolman, our Creative Director, is going to be one of the jurors in the 9th edition of the ranking of 50 Top Creative in Business. The ranking aims to honour companies and people: put their money on innovations and out-of-the-box solutions in their businesses,...

We got the results of the first nationwide research on Visual Thinking

Last year we co-created the very first nationwide research on Visual Thinking. Why did we decide to take part in reliable research on the effectiveness of visual thinking? For years now we have been hearing from our clients, that what we do, works. But it’s one thing...

Maciej Budkowski and Klaudia Tolman to host an “Expert” cycle meeting for Brief.pl

For the last 5 years, we have been building and developing our know-how. During that time we’ve carried out over 200 projects in 19 languages for dozens of corporations, startups and GOs. But never before have we publicly spoken about our agency experiences. This time...

Maciej Budkowski and Klaudia Tolman in the #agencja podcast

Just released, there’s an #agencja podcast featuring our managing team, Klaudia and Maciek. In the podcast we’re telling about our daily work. Link to the podcast –...

ExplainVisually’s film about European Funds submitted to Camerimage

In 2015 we made a film with the Mazovian Unit of EU Programmes Implementation in Warsaw. Its aim was to tell in a simple way how to gain European Funds. The project went very well and many organisations associated with European Funds considered it to set a good...

ExplainVisually’s infographics to support Polish Football Association

Maciek, our Managing Director, has been a huge fan of football for over 20 years and he’s always been dreaming about cooperation with the Polish Football Association. So when they actually called us to say that they needed to explain to football coaches complex...

ExplainVisually a laureate of the competition 50 Most Creative in Polish Business!

We are a laureate of this year’s ranking of 50 Most Creative in Business. 50 Creative is the biggest competition in its field in Poland. The ranking is carried out each year by Brief.pl. Amongst former laureates are CD Project, Brand24, iTaxi, LifeTube, Booksy or...

How to spend money to be happy? Our infographic in “Głos Mordoru” (“Voice of Mordor”)

“Money doesn’t bring happiness” or “You cannot have too much of a good thing”? Turns out, it depends on what you do with it. Those are the conclusions of Elizabeth Dunn and Michael Norton, Professors of British Columbia University and Harvard University. In their book...

Summary 2017

Christmas time has passed, so it’s time for some summary. We can’t describe this year with one word. 2017 was demanding, tragic, developing, successful, sad and joyful. In the period of 12 months we made over 70 films, which means we scored almost 200 total since the...

Our video helped to win 1,000,000$ in a Israeli’s startup competition

A week ago Seegnature, an Israeli InsurTech start-up, used our whiteboard animation during a pitch - presentation to the investors. The stake was high. Pitch is a key moment for a start-up. Several minutes of presentation may determine the company’s future. Especially...

HR Case Study: recruitment video

It was the end of May 2016, when we realized we could not put it off any longer. Everybody took their place, and we started the meeting. “We have to recruit new drawing artists! I can’t do it by myself any longer! We won’t manage when the new projects come…!” Klaudia...

Explainer video production process

Explainer video production process typically takes a few weeks (3-8). The production time depends on the film's duration, its complexity, the flow of works, communication between both parties (or three parties if an Agency also takes part in the discussion), work...