As businesses increasingly rely on video to engage with their audiences, the question of how to handle post-production has become a critical strategic decision. For many, the choice comes down to two options: building an in-house editing team or outsourcing to a professional service. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the benefits of outsourcing video editing and offers a framework for making the right decision for your business.

‍

When to Outsource Video Editing

The decision to outsource is not just about cost; it’s about strategy. Here are the key indicators that it’s time to consider outsourcing your video editing:

• Your team is at capacity: If your marketing team is spending more time editing videos than on their core responsibilities, it’s a clear sign that you need a dedicated solution.

• Your content quality is inconsistent: If your videos lack a consistent look and feel, it can dilute your brand identity. A professional service can ensure that all of your content is on-brand.

• Your turnaround times are too slow: If it takes weeks to get a video edited, you’re missing out on timely marketing opportunities. Outsourcing can significantly speed up your production workflow.

• You lack specialized skills: If you need advanced editing techniques like motion graphics or visual effects, outsourcing gives you access to a team of specialists.

• You want to scale your video production: If you want to produce more video content without hiring more full-time employees, outsourcing is the most scalable solution.

‍

In-House vs. Outsourcing: A Cost and Efficiency Analysis

To make an informed decision, it’s important to understand the true costs of both options. While hiring an in-house editor may seem like a more controlled approach, it’s often the more expensive and less efficient choice.

‍

‍

As the table shows, the total cost of an in-house editor is significantly higher than an outsourced service. Furthermore, an in-house editor can only work on one project at a time, while an outsourced service gives you access to a full team of editors, allowing you to produce more content at a faster pace.

‍

How to Find and Vet a Video Editing Service

Once you’ve decided to outsource, the next step is to find the right partner. Here’s a 5-step process for vetting potential video editing services:

1.         Define Your Needs: Before you start your search, clearly define your content needs, budget, and turnaround time requirements.

2.         Research Potential Partners: Look for services that specialize in your industry or content type. Read online reviews on platforms like G2, Capterra, and Trustpilot.

3.         Review Their Portfolio: A strong portfolio is the best indicator of a service’s quality. Look for examples of work that are similar to what you want to create.

4.         Ask for a Trial or Pilot Project: Many services offer a trial period or a pilot project to allow you to test their workflow and quality before committing to a long-term contract.

5.         Check References: Ask for references from current or past clients. This is a great way to get an unbiased opinion of the service.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I manage a remote video editing team?

A: Clear communication is key. Use a project management tool like Trello or Asana to track requests and feedback. Provide a detailed creative brief for each video, including your goals, target audience, and key messages.

Q: How do I ensure quality control when outsourcing?

A: Choose a service with a dedicated quality assurance (QA) team. Provide a detailed brand guide that outlines your visual style, tone of voice, and brand guidelines. Establish a clear feedback and revision process.

Q: What should be included in a video editing service contract?

A: Your contract should clearly outline the scope of services, pricing, turnaround times, revision process, and ownership of the final assets. It’s also a good idea to include a confidentiality clause to protect your sensitive information.

‍

Conclusion

Outsourcing video editing is a strategic decision that can help you produce higher quality content, faster, and at a lower cost than building an in-house team. By choosing the right partner and establishing a clear workflow, you can unlock the full potential of video marketing and achieve your business goals.