Types of Mode of Action Videos

What Are Mode of Action Videos?

Mode of action videos are, in essence, videos designed to visually demonstrate how a product functions. In the healthcare sector, these videos are commonly used to illustrate how a drug or medical device interacts with the body, showcasing its mechanism of action in a clear and engaging way.

Medical and healthcare professionals often face challenges when trying to accurately describe the impact of products and devices, as they can become lost in the complex scientific and technical details. Mode of action videos address this issue by simplifying the explanation, breaking down intricate concepts into clear, easy-to-understand visuals. This approach makes it easier for both healthcare professionals and patients to grasp the product’s effects and benefits, enhancing understanding and improving communication.

Types of Videos

Mode of action videos can be created in various styles, with the choice typically depending on factors such as budget, timelines, and the specific message you want to convey. Among these options, animation is by far the most popular choice within the healthcare industry. This is because animations offer the unique advantage of depicting concepts that would be impossible or difficult to capture with real-life footage, allowing for a more imaginative and effective portrayal of complex processes.

Here are the three most popular animation styles and their advantages and disadvantages:

Whiteboard Animation

Whiteboard animations were traditionally hand-drawn and filmed in live-action, then edited to look like the hand is sketching the animation at super speed, right before your eyes. More common today is to use hand-drawn elements, but sketched onto a tablet and then placed into a digital workflow. This not only gives the same effect as hand-drawn animation, but also allows the animator to bring the elements to life, whilst having more freedom to move them around. When used with voice-over narration, this style is easy to follow and can feel really clean and educational.

2D animation

While 2D animation techniques may be less commonly used for mode of action videos compared to more dynamic styles, they remain a highly effective and versatile option for creating smooth, engaging explainer-style animations. This approach is particularly well-suited for stories that involve characters or simple processes, where a more straightforward visual style can effectively communicate the message without overwhelming the viewer.

Furthermore, 2D animation is often simpler to produce, allowing for quicker turnaround times and lower production costs compared to more intricate animation styles like 3D. This makes it an ideal choice for projects with tight deadlines or limited budgets, without sacrificing quality.

3D animation

The most popular style of animation for mode of action videos is undoubtedly 3D. While it tends to be at the higher end of the price spectrum, the creative possibilities it offers make it a highly desirable choice for many medical storytellers. With its ability to depict space, depth, and intricate movements, 3D animation excels in delivering dynamic and visually captivating content. This makes it ideal for conveying complex mechanisms of action, allowing even the most intricate processes to be communicated clearly and engagingly through compelling visuals.

The style you choose may be determined by the story you are trying to tell, your budget or your deadline. All of these factors can have an impact on the overall creative output. 

If you’re considering a mode of action video for your production, please get in touch and we’d be happy to talk through your options! Alternatively, you can call 01482 484850 or email hello@eon-media.com to get your free consultation!