Making a software demonstration video is not as easy as you may think

It's not just the production process that can be difficult.

The actual concept of a software demo video can be tricky to understand.

This, of course, depends on the individual piece of software.

For example, the software you wish to promote may be:

> Abstract in its nature - perhaps it is more about maths equations than graphics

> Vital to the business process, but just not interesting

> Inaccessible to the average user because of its complexity

How a software demo video can help with this

If done correctly, a software demo video can show what can not be seen and explain what is hard to describe.

As they say, a picture says a thousand words.

A good picture that is - a bad one just causes confusion and frustration.

So, when making a software demo video, which paths should you follow and how do you avoid any pitfalls along the way.

Here are some software demo video samples

 

6 dos and don'ts for software demo videos

First of all, the do's:

1 - Do make sure it's simple and concise

The last thing you want to do is make your complicated product even more complicated by making a complicated video. Viewers will find it as annoying as that sentence.

2 - Do make sure it is informative

A simple video does not have to lack information - it just has to have the needed info and nothing else.

3 - Do make sure it is interesting and modern

Nobody would want to watch it otherwise.

4 - Do make sure it plays on all platforms

It may work on Windows, but does it work on Apple, iPad, iPhone, Android etc.?

5 - Do make sure it's made to a high standard

This means making sure the visuals and audio are top notch - which also means getting a professional video production company to make it.

And delivery is as a 1080HD mp4 video file.

6 - Do embrace the many benefits the video will provide

The video will not only replace a physical manual or pdf in showing how your product works, but it will also act as an advert for your software.

Use this to your advantage by putting it out there - use social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter etc.

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 And the Dont's:

1 - Don't be dull

For obvious reasons - it will turn your audience off.

2 - Don't use a single static shot of a computer screen and call it a video

Because the viewer will say "it isn't a video". There is nothing worse than an amateur software demo that is accompanied by some boring know-it-all and rambling commentary.

3 - Don't make it yourself

Unless you're a professional video producer with the relative and required experience. If you are not, it will show.

4 - Don't provide unnecessary information

It will make both the video and your package look too complicated.

5 - Don't make it too long

The consumer is not interested in a lecture. They want to digest your content as instantaneously as possible.

6 - Don't limit its audience

Make sure your video is - and your software - is promoted via online media sites such as YouTube and social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. Also remember to make it HTML5 compatible.

And there you have it. 6 dos and don'ts for making a software demo video.

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