Internet of Things
THE THING ABOUT THE INTERNET OF THINGS
When everything is connected, things get complicated. One thing can simplify it: video.
The predictions came true. It wasn’t long ago that we were hearing about the fast-approaching age of connected devices. Well, it’s hear. And everyone is trying to make sense of it.
The short answer
What makes a good IoT explainer video?
A good IoT explainer shows how your connected devices, software and data work together, and what that system does for the customer that nothing else can.
Viewers need to see both the physical device and the invisible connections between things.
At Epipheo, 3D animation, the usual choice for showing hardware, typically costs $35,000–$120,000 and takes eight to ten weeks; 2D and motion graphics typically cost $10,000–$45,000 and take five to six weeks.
Since 2009, Epipheo has made more than 6,000 videos for over 3,000 brands, including Cisco and Microsoft.
Last reviewed
The Problems
Opportunity
For as cool as IoT seems, it’s not immediately clear how it can be valuable to a business, especially one that isn’t making consumer services. Sure, the data being produced by IoT devices should be valuable, but identifying the best way to make use of that data can be complicated.
Change
Even if someone can understand the opportunity that IoT presents them, they need to be convinced that it’s worth the effort and investment to tap into. The theory is nice, but it’s not enough to get them to make a significant adjustment to what they’re doing now. Especially if things are going well.
Novelty
Despite the best efforts of futuristic sci-fi movies, no one expected toasters that connected to the internet. Consumers can see the value of being able to turn up the thermostat without getting out of bed. But businesses? What can they do with the fact that cars, watches, basketballs, and security cameras are all online? Even more importantly, how can they do that better than their competition?
THE SOLUTION: VIDEO
Video Demonstrates
When an audience can’t immediately see how it works, why not show them how it works? A video is a perfect way to quickly and effectively demonstrate a way that IoT has helped a company thrive. Even if a use case isn’t directly relevant to them, it at least unlocks the skepticism that naturally comes with anything new. Plus, it sparks their curiosity: how can my company use this?
Collaborate with an expert video strategist to bring your ideas to life.
Video Illustrates
Promising value is one thing. Showing it is another. Video can help people see the substance beneath the sizzle of IoT. Because of its visual power, video can show people the myriad opportunities that it could unlock for them. Or, even better, it can show them how they’re currently not taking advantage of all the data that’s being generated. Nothing is more compelling than showing a missed opportunity—especially if it comes with a solution.
Giving your audience an understanding of your brand and dispelling their confusion are great first steps towards building trust.
Video Proves
Once the audience knows that IoT works and what it can do, they need to know how valuable it can be. The emphatic power of video can help people understand that this is not just a marginal improvement. This is a revolution that means not only that they can do things differently, but that they could see immense benefits.
IoT explainer videos: what to know before you start
What these videos usually need to explain
- What the device is and what it senses or controls
- How devices, the cloud and your software connect
- The result for the customer: less downtime, lower cost, better decisions
- How it installs and grows over time
Which video style fits
| Style | Typical range | Timeline | Good fit for IoT when… |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3D animation | $35K–$120K | 8–10 weeks | You need to show the hardware in detail, inside and out |
| Motion graphics | $10K–$35K | 5–6 weeks | You are explaining the connections, dashboards and data |
| Hybrid (live action + motion graphics) | $35K–$150K | 6–12 weeks | You want real-world footage of devices in use, with graphics on top |
Ranges are typical Epipheo project costs; your quote depends on length, style and complexity. See the full pricing guide.
How an Epipheo project works
- Discovery & content strategy. A kickoff call to learn who you are, what you do and why it matters to your audience.
- Video planning. A story arc and visual concept that fits your budget, delivered as “The Story Plan.”
- Pre-production. Script, a custom illustration style sample and storyboards, usually delivered as an animatic timed to a rough voiceover (“The Production Plan”).
- Production & post. Animation or filming, final voiceover, music and sound, then delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a IoT explainer video cost?
Most Epipheo explainer projects cost $5,000 to $150,000+. For IoT, 3D animation typically runs $35K–$120K; 2D and motion graphics $10K–$45K.
How long does a IoT explainer video take to make?
Most take four to twelve weeks from kickoff to delivery, depending on style. A 2D or motion graphics video typically takes five to six weeks, 3D animation eight to ten weeks, and live action six to twelve weeks.
Do we need 3D animation for an IoT video?
Only if viewers need to see the device itself in detail. If the value is in the connections and the data, 2D or motion graphics are usually faster and less expensive.
