By: Mark Maguire
October 9, 2024Uncategorized
Recently, Steve and I were guests on the weekly Cvent podcast, hosted by Alyssa Peltier, where we cover numerous subjects. Delving into the role AI plays in our work, the rise of 3D and 3D-like animation, our use of typography and high-impact visuals in our animations, and the incredible growth of SAC Designs from when Steve started the company back in the early 2000s, during the DotCom bust. It was a super fun discussion that reflected on how much the landscape of technology has changed over the past 22 years and how it has influenced how we operate.
The use of AI at work is a topic that continues to grow in importance as more businesses look to harness its potential. We discussed how useful AI has become for some aspects of our animation production work. AI excels in providing cool ideas, and we will continue to use it for that. It is also used to animate facial expressions and give motion to some of the graphics we are working on. However, it is not yet up to the task of creating the production-quality work for which we are famous. So for the foreseeable future, human creativity and expertise are still crucial for all aspects of production work, from conception and creation to final delivery. It’s doubtful that will change anytime soon.
Animations target a particular need. They can be product-based, science-based, explainer-based, or banner ads.
The Product Animations are usually around 2 minutes long. In those 2 minutes, we will use every asset available to maintain maximum interest and provide product information awareness to potential customers and users. These assets include HD images, infographics, videos, high-energy visuals, and a unique use of typography.
For the Science-based animations, we typically show either intricate biological processes or how a process or treatment may work when administered. For example how a treatment may help to alleviate Lupus symptoms.
We also do Explainer videos. These are no longer the cartoon-based animations typically thought of for Explainer videos. We try to use actual product images and videos and show real people using the products correctly, to bring the training to life. We usually provide step-by-step instructions in easy-to-follow language. Often we use voice-over to assist in conveying information and to accelerate the learning process.
Then there are the Animated Banner Ads. These are the ads you see surrounding some center-of-the-page content. Our goal is to assist in making these ads as fun, eye-catching, and informative as possible using animation, graphics, typography, and text, with links to other information and websites. Industry reports, which we get regularly, show that these animated banner ads are far more effective in garnering attention and click-thru than plain old static ads.
Another topic we discussed was the growing use of 3D animation, particularly our use of 2D to create near-3D animation. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a steady growth in requests by our clients for more visually striking content, and 3D animation is part of that demand, as they are always looking for better ways to engage their audiences.
Often we use 2D to create 3D-like animation effects. This technique can give an animation more depth and realism beyond typical 2D. To be clear, this is not a 3D replacement. It is effective in making animations more interesting without all the work and cost of 3D.
For Steve, perhaps the most personal part of the podcast was reflecting on the journey of how he started SAC Designs over 22 years ago. Looking back, it’s astonishing to see how far we’ve come. What began as a small operation has grown bigger and more involved than he ever dreamed. We’ve navigated the changes in technology, market shifts, and the evolution of customer expectations.
Back when we started, the technology landscape was vastly different. AI wasn’t on the radar, 3D animation was still in its infancy, and we relied on much simpler tools. Yet, the core of our business—creativity, innovation, and problem-solving—remains the same. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and it’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown, not just in size but in capability.
We will continue using AI for idea generation and other small tasks while embracing technologies like 3D animation, VR, and AR. We are excited about the future. There’s so much potential in the new and ever-evolving technologies. However, these tools are only as good as the people who use them. Humans are still the ultimate arbiters of innovation and essential in delivering quality work. Our ability to adapt and grow with these changes is what makes the next 20 years so full of promise.
Appearing on this podcast was a great opportunity to reflect on the intersection of technology and creativity, and we hope it inspired others to think about how AI and 3D animation can enhance their work while staying grounded in quality and innovation.