In a world inundated with news and information, it's becoming increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction. That's where BBC Explainers come in. With a commitment to demystifying complex topics, the BBC uses We Are Cognitive explainer videos to provide a deeper understanding of the world we live in.

From politics to science, culture to technology, these expertly crafted animation videos aim to unravel the complexities and offer clarity to readers. By breaking down intricate concepts into easily digestible explanations, the BBC Explainers empower readers with the knowledge they need to navigate today's complex issues.

With a team of talented writers and researchers, the BBC Explainers deliver unbiased and well-researched content that goes beyond the headlines. Whether you're looking to dive into the latest political debate or explore the mysteries of the universe, these explainer videos provide the insight and analysis necessary to broaden your perspective.

Prepare to delve into the world of BBC Explainers as we demystify the complexities that surround us, one video at a time. Get ready to uncover the truth and gain a deeper understanding of the world we inhabit.

Importance of explainer videos in news

Explainer videos play a crucial role in today's information-driven society. With the abundance of news articles, opinion pieces, and social media posts, it can be overwhelming to discern accurate information from misinformation. This is where explainer videos step in for the BBC, they provide a reliable and trustworthy source of knowledge, while still being entertaining and captivating.

Topics for explainer videos are meticulously researched and written by a team of experts from We Are Cognitive. They strive to present information in an objective manner, free from bias or personal opinions. This commitment to accuracy and impartiality is what sets these explainer videos apart.

Additionally, explainer videos serve as a bridge between complex topics and the general public. They take intricate concepts and distill them into clear and concise explanations that can be easily understood by readers of all backgrounds. This accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of their level of expertise, can engage with and comprehend the content.

Explainer videos used in news and politics also foster critical thinking skills. By presenting different perspectives and providing evidence-based analysis, they encourage readers to question assumptions, challenge preconceived notions, and develop a well-rounded understanding of the subjects at hand. This promotes a more informed and engaged society.

How explainer videos for news and political topics work

The process of creating explainer videos for news and political topics is a meticulous one, involving a team of dedicated writers, researchers, and animators. The first step is to identify a topic that requires further explanation. This could be a current event, a scientific discovery, a cultural phenomenon, or any other subject that is of interest or relevance to the audience.

Once a topic is presented, the team conducts extensive research, gathering information from a variety of reputable sources. This ensures that the explainer videos are based on accurate and up-to-date information. The team then distills this research into a comprehensive yet concise narrative, ensuring that the content is accessible to a wide range of viewers.

The writing process involves breaking down complex concepts into simpler terms, using clear and concise language. The explainer videos follow a logical structure, providing context and background information before delving into the core subject matter. Visual aids, such as infographics and illustrations, are an integral part to enhance understanding.

After the initial draft is complete, the explainer video undergoes a rigorous editing process. This involves fact-checking, ensuring that all information is accurate and supported by reliable sources. The language is refined to ensure clarity and coherence, while maintaining the integrity of the content. The final product is a well-crafted explainer video that is ready to be shared with the world.

Examples of BBC Explainer Videos made by We Are Cognitive:

BBC explainer videos cover a wide range of topics, catering to diverse interests and curiosities. Here are a few examples of Explainers that we have worked on:

"The Future of Humanity" - In this short film for Radio 4, historian and author of the international bestseller Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind, Yuval Noah Harari predicts the future of humanity.

“BBC: Will you ever be able to retire?” - Money Box wanted us to make a film that explores what retirement might look like in the future. Using an explainer video technique, we worked with the team at the BBC to make an easily accessible film that was suitable for all ages. We used our whiteboard animation technique to unpack complicated and easily misunderstood information about the financial issues around retirement to enable the listener to understand the choices they are faced with.

"BBC: The Stephen Hawking Reith Lectures" - Each year, the BBC invites a leading figure to give a series of lectures on radio. In 2015, Professor Stephen Hawking delivered two lectures on the nature of black holes. In the first of these lectures, he shows us how weird black holes are – and how they are beyond ‘science fiction’ weird. We meet some of the heroes of black hole research, such as Stephen Wheeler and discover why the French didn’t like the term ‘black hole’. Packed with handy tips like why it’s better to fall into a super-massive black hole than a smaller one, this is a romp through space-time which shows us how black holes challenge the predictability of the universe and the certainty of history.

"BBC: A History of Ideas: "I Think, Therefore I Am" - What can we know for certain? Can we trust what our senses are telling us? Can we even trust absolute truths, such as those of mathematics? What if our brains are being manipulated to make basic mathematical errors? These were just some of the questions that led the philosopher Renee Descartes to the one thing of which he could be certain – that he was thinking. From this, he was able to make his most famous conclusion: ‘Cogito, ergo sum’, ‘I think, therefore I am’.

These examples demonstrate the breadth and depth of topics covered by explainer videos made for the BBC. Whether it's a scientific concept, a political issue, or a technological advancement, the Explainers strive to provide clarity and understanding.

Benefits of using explainers videos

There are numerous benefits to using explainers videos as a source of information and knowledge. Here are a few key advantages:

Accessibility: Explainer videos are designed to be accessible to viewers of all backgrounds. This accessibility ensures that everyone can engage with and benefit from the content.

Impartiality: Explainers videos strive to present information in an unbiased manner. They provide a balanced view of complex issues, presenting different perspectives and supporting them with evidence. This impartiality allows readers to form their own opinions based on a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.

Comprehensiveness: Explainers videos offer comprehensive coverage of various topics, providing viewers with a holistic understanding of complex issues. They go beyond the surface-level explanations and delve into the nuances and intricacies of the subject matter. This depth of coverage enables readers to develop a more nuanced perspective.

Tips for incorporating explainer videos into your content strategy.

Incorporating explainer videos into your content strategy can bring numerous benefits. Here are some tips for effectively integrating explainer videos into your existing content:

Identify relevant topics: Look for topics that are of interest or relevance to your audience. Consider current events, industry trends, or popular subjects that align with your content niche.

Collaborate with experts: Reach out to experts or authorities in the field to contribute to your explainer videos. This adds credibility and enhances the depth of the content.

Promote your explainer video on social media: Use social media platforms to share your Explainers and engage with your audience. Encourage discussions, ask for feedback, and respond to comments to foster a sense of community.

Measure performance: Track the performance of your explainer videos by monitoring metrics such as page views, engagement, and social media shares. This data will help you understand what resonates with your audience and refine your content strategy accordingly.

By incorporating explainer videos into your content strategy, you can provide valuable and educational content to your audience while enhancing your brand's credibility.

Conclusion: The future of BBC Explainers in content creation

In a world where information overload is a constant challenge, explainer videos offer a beacon of clarity and understanding. With their commitment to accessibility and simplification of potentially difficult topics, explainer videos empower readers to navigate today's complex issues with confidence.

As the demand for a simpler execution of complex topics continues to grow, explainer videos are poised to play an increasingly important role in content creation, internal communication and even sales. By demystifying complex topics and providing in-depth explanations, they bridge the gap between experts and the general public, fostering a more informed and engaged society.

So, the next time you find yourself grappling to explain a complex subject to staff, customers or the general public, turn to us to help you create a long-lasting visual communication tool for deeper understanding. 

We’ve been creating animated explainer videos since 2004 and helped pioneer the medium. We’d love to chat about making your remote training more engaging or sharing your message. Book a free creative consultation or contact us today!