We're moving right along with our web video series. So far we've covered how video can help drive results, and we discussed the brand documentary video. Today, we move on to a video that may sound a bit more familiar, the how-to video.

How-to videos (sometimes called walk-through or explainer videos) show “how to” use a product or service. Video can be much sexier than a simple set of instructions, but let’s make sure we are using it wisely.

Know your audience

Is your audience already excited about the product? How-to videos work best when an audience is curious and ready to learn. If you’re still trying to convince them why they should care, a how-to video may be getting ahead of yourself. Follow the rest of this series to find a video that would be a better fit.

Simple explanation

A video can show in seconds what takes minutes to explain in words. Focus on what’s essential to actually use your product. How-to videos work best when the product seems intuitive. Don’t get mired in the details and try to explain all the features. Start simple: state the goal, demonstrate how your product achieves that goal, and show the results.

Seamless design

Using screen capture software and a narration recorded with your iPhone can lead to a video that looks and sounds unprofessional. But take a look at the above sample how-to video to see how things can look when all the elements come together seamlessly. A professional voiceover and creative composition go a long way. Even the speed and movement of the mouse looks exactly right. Get a how-to video that stands out from all the screen-casts on YouTube and you will make your company proud.

Need an amazing how-to video for your business? The award-winning designers at Propoint can help.