Why Animation Explainers Are the Future of Engaging Business Communication

In an age where attention spans are fleeting and digital content floods every corner of the internet, businesses are constantly searching for innovative ways to communicate effectively. Traditional slide decks and lengthy written reports are quickly becoming obsolete. In their place, animation explainers have risen as a powerful tool for cutting through the noise, capturing attention, and delivering messages with clarity and impact.

From startups launching new products to enterprise-level corporations simplifying complex services, the use of video animation is transforming business communication. In this post, we’ll explore why animation explainers are so effective, how they tie into the broader history of animation—including who invented cel animation—and why your business should invest in animated content now.

What Are Animation Explainers?

Animation explainers are short, visually compelling animated videos designed to simplify and communicate a message, product, or process. Typically lasting between 60 to 120 seconds, they combine engaging visuals, voiceovers, and music to explain a topic in a clear, digestible format.

They are commonly used for:

• Product demos

• Onboarding processes

• Marketing and sales pitches

• Internal communications

• Educational content

Unlike live-action videos, animation explainers give creators full control over visuals and storytelling, which makes them more versatile, cost-effective, and brand-customizable.

The Rise of Video Animation in Business

Video content is no longer just a marketing luxury—it’s a necessity. According to recent studies, viewers retain 95% of a message when they watch it in a video compared to 10% when reading it in text. This alone makes video animation a must-have for businesses that want their messages to stick.

Animation explainers stand out among video types because they can distill even the most complex topics into simple, engaging narratives. Through visuals and motion graphics, they make abstract ideas—like software platforms or financial services—understandable and approachable.

And unlike traditional video production, which often involves actors, locations, and expensive shoots, animated videos are made entirely digitally, offering flexibility in both style and budget.

The Historical Roots: Who Invented Cel Animation?

To fully appreciate the modern marvel of animation explainers, it’s worth looking back at the history of animation itself. A pivotal milestone came with the invention of cel animation, a technique that laid the foundation for much of today’s video animation.

Cel animation—short for celluloid animation—was pioneered by Earl Hurd in 1914. Hurd, alongside John Bray, revolutionized the animation process by separating static backgrounds from moving characters. This was achieved by drawing individual elements on transparent celluloid sheets (or “cels”), which could then be layered to create dynamic scenes without redrawing the entire frame each time.

This innovation significantly reduced production time and costs, and it remained the dominant method in animation for decades. Classic Disney films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Cinderella were all created using cel animation.

While digital techniques have since replaced traditional cel methods, the core principle—layered visuals to tell stories—remains at the heart of modern animation explainers.

Why Animation Explainers Work So Well for Business

Here’s why animation explainers are quickly becoming the gold standard for business communication:

1. Simplification of Complex Ideas

Animation can break down highly technical or abstract information into digestible bits. Through visual metaphors and clean graphics, it helps your audience understand what your business does—and why it matters—without jargon overload.

2. Brand Customization

With animation, you’re not limited to real-world constraints. You can design every frame to align with your brand’s color palette, tone, and identity. This helps reinforce brand recognition and consistency.

3. Better Engagement and Retention

Animated videos capture attention within the first few seconds and hold it longer than static content. Bright visuals, smooth transitions, and compelling narratives keep viewers engaged—and more likely to absorb your message.

4. Cross-Platform Versatility

Whether you’re embedding the video on your website, sharing it on social media, or presenting it in meetings, animation explainers are versatile and adaptable to any medium.

5. Cost-Effective Production

Compared to live-action content, animated videos often require less budget. There’s no need for expensive locations, actors, or equipment. Updates to animated videos are also easier, making them a smart long-term investment.

Best Use Cases for Animation Explainers in Business

Still unsure how animation could benefit your organization? Here are a few impactful scenarios:

• Startups can introduce their product with a clear and engaging launch video.

• SaaS companies can use explainers to simplify user interfaces and functionality.

• Healthcare providers can clarify services or procedures in patient-friendly terms.

• Financial firms can demystify complex concepts like investments or insurance plans.

• HR departments can onboard new employees with animated training content.

Trends in Video Animation to Watch

As the popularity of animation explainer videos grows, so does innovation in the field. Here are a few trends businesses should consider:

• 3D Animation & Motion Design: More brands are moving toward immersive, dimensional visuals to stand out.

• Interactive Video Experiences: Some animation platforms now allow viewers to engage with the content, making learning more dynamic.

• AI-Assisted Animation Tools: New AI technologies are making animation creation faster and more accessible, even for beginners.

• Personalized Animation: Businesses are tailoring animations to different customer segments for greater relevance and engagement.

Getting Started: Choosing the Right Animation Explainer Partner

While DIY tools like Vyond, Animaker, and Powtoon make it easier to create animations in-house, many businesses choose to partner with professional video animation studios. These agencies offer creative direction, scripting, voiceover, and polished production to ensure high-quality results.

When selecting a provider, look for:

• A strong portfolio that aligns with your brand style

• Flexibility and customizability in packages

• A clear, collaborative process

• Transparent pricing

• Turnaround time and revision policies

Whether you’re launching a product or revamping your internal communications, the right team can help bring your message to life with clarity and creativity.

Final Thoughts

Animation explainers have emerged as one of the most effective tools in business communication today. By blending storytelling, visuals, and motion, they engage audiences in a way static content simply can’t match. From their historical roots in cel animation to the cutting-edge video animation tools we have today, the evolution of animated content has made it easier—and more impactful—than ever to communicate ideas with clarity and charm.

In a world where content is king, animated explainers are your crown jewel. If your business hasn’t tapped into their power yet, now’s the time to start.