Why Short Explainer Animations Are the Best Way to Communicate Complex Research
hort explainer videos simplify complex research into engaging stories. In this explainer video blog, see why universities and nonprofits rely on animation.
Pau Palazón Radford
9/25/20252 min read
Turning complexity into clarity
Researchers, universities, NGOs, and public health teams often face the same challenge: how do you explain years of data, findings, or strategies in a way non-specialists will actually understand? Reports are too long, papers are full of jargon, and presentations often lose attention.
This is where short explainer animations shine. By combining clear visuals, voiceover, and storytelling, animations make even the most complicated ideas easy to grasp — in just 60–90 seconds.
Why clarity matters more than ever
In today’s fast-paced world, attention is limited. Policymakers, funders, and the public don’t have time to dig through lengthy documents. If your message isn’t understood quickly, it risks being ignored.
Clear visuals beat text-heavy reports.
Short = powerful: 2 minutes often has more impact than a 20-page report.
Accessibility matters: animations cut across cultures and language barriers.
For researchers and institutions, clarity isn’t just nice to have — it’s essential for impact, funding, and public engagement.
Why animations boost engagement & retention
Explainer videos work because of how the human brain processes information:
Visuals are processed 60,000x faster than text.
People retain up to 80% of what they see in a video vs. 20% of what they read.
Animations are highly shareable, extending your project’s reach far beyond academic circles.
An animation isn’t just a video — it’s a dissemination tool that makes your message memorable, persuasive, and far-reaching.
Who benefits most from explainer animations
Short animated explainers are especially valuable for:
Research managers — showing funders how a project creates impact.
University communications teams — reaching students, alumni, and the public.
Public health organisations — improving health outcomes by engaging diverse audiences.
NGOs & brands — explaining sustainability, mental health, or policy issues clearly.
If you fall into any of these groups, an explainer animation can be the difference between being understood or ignored.
Why short beats long
Why not make a 10-minute film? The answer: attention.
Short videos are easier to fund, produce, and share.
They adapt well to social media, websites, and conferences.
They keep audiences engaged from start to finish.
Think of an explainer animation as the front door to your project: short, engaging, and inviting. Once people are interested, they’ll dive deeper into your papers, reports, or talks.
Conclusion: Clarity is a superpower
In a world overloaded with information, short explainer animations give your project the edge. They make complex ideas easy to understand, engaging to watch, and impossible to forget.
👉 Ready to share your story? Let’s talk about how an explainer animation can make your message clear and unforgettable