Videate Blog

How to make a SaaS explainer video in 2025

Written by Videate | Dec 11, 2024

If you’ve ever struggled to explain your software-as-a-service product in a way that hooks viewers from the first second, you’re not alone. A SaaS explainer video can feel like a tough puzzle: How do you show off complex features, communicate true value, and still keep it fun and easy to follow?

We get it. In fact, that’s exactly why platforms like Videate exist—to help teams build better videos at scale.

Here’s how to pull together a killer SaaS explainer video without breaking a sweat.

1. Start With a Story

Think about your product’s story. Your SaaS product isn’t just lines of code—there’s a reason it exists. Maybe it makes customer onboarding a breeze. Maybe it turns complicated workflows into something anyone can do.

Whatever it is, boil it down to a super-simple narrative. Imagine explaining it to a friend who has zero tech background. If they get it, your potential customers will, too.

2. Keep It Short, Sweet, and Snackable

Your audience is busy. They’re juggling Slack messages, emails, and a million other online distractions. A great SaaS explainer video (for a simple concept) usually runs about 60-90 seconds. This leaves no time to ramble—every second must count.

If you need to explain something more complex, try keeping it to around 5 minutes max, if possible. It isn't always possible! And that's fine. Just keep in mind that attention spans are short these days, and your users just want to get in, get the info, and get out.

Write down your script and read it out loud, or run it through an AI voice generator like Videate's. If you start to yawn, cut it down until it’s as tight as possible.

3. Show, Don’t Just Tell

Talking about your platform’s features is cool, but actually showing how it works is game-changing. Screen recordings, animated steps, or simple walkthroughs turn a boring lecture into a “Wow, I need this” moment.

With tools like Videate, you can automate these recordings and turn product steps into polished videos. No more manual screen capturing for every single update—just let the platform do the heavy lifting while you focus on the creative side.

4. Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features

It’s one thing to say, “Our SaaS tool integrates with your CRM.” It’s another to say, “Our tool helps your team close deals faster by bringing CRM insights straight into your workflow.” Viewers want to know how your product makes their lives better.

For every technical detail you highlight, ask yourself, “Why should they care?” Then use that answer in your script.

5. Use Clear, On-Brand Visuals

Your SaaS explainer video should look like it belongs in your brand’s world. Use your brand colors, fonts, and icons. If you’re aiming for a fun vibe, toss in some playful illustrations. If your product is more formal, keep things crisp and professional.

Aim for consistency. Your visuals should feel like they’re all part of the same family. If you’re using Videate, this consistency is easier to maintain across multiple videos.

6. Add a Dash of Personality

Don’t be afraid to show off a little flair. A funny line, a casual tone, or a clever visual metaphor helps viewers remember your product. The goal is to stand out from all the other B2B videos that feel more like classroom lectures than quick, fun explainers.

Think of your video as a brand ambassador. It should talk and look like someone your audience would actually enjoy spending time with.

7. Wrap It Up With a Clear Call-to-Action

You’ve nailed the story, cut the fluff, shown off the product, and kept it engaging. Now what? Tell viewers exactly what to do next—sign up, request a demo, or start a free trial. Don’t leave them guessing.

Keep your CTA simple and obvious. A big, friendly button or a clear URL works wonders.

8. Iterate and Improve Over Time

Your first SaaS explainer video might not be perfect, and that’s okay. Track how it performs—are viewers watching until the end? Are they signing up after watching? Use these insights to improve future videos.

Videate makes it simple to update and scale your video content, so each new version can be better than the last without starting from scratch.

 

The Bottom Line: Creating a killer SaaS explainer video doesn’t have to feel like climbing a mountain. Focus on storytelling, keep it short, and show real value.

With the right tools—like Videate—your next video can capture attention, boost retention, and make your brand impossible to ignore.