In summary: As well as the usual emails and phone calls, you should expect:

> Online scripts.

> Online storyboards.

> Online video drafts.

These are the essential collaboration tools that will ensure you:

> Stay on schedule.

> Confirm correct image choices.

> Get all your team and approval layers involved in the right way.

> Avoid potential delays or costly misunderstandings during the later stages of  the project.

So any video company you use must supply these or something similar.

Ask them. They should be proud to tell you.

And all the commitment, transparency and collaboration you need will have been achieved at a single stroke.