de Novo Solutions, a multi-award-winning Welsh technology company and the original pioneers of Oracle Cloud over a decade ago. Now, they are pioneering once again into the experience economy. We utilized our technology video production services to produce an impactful video advert that would leave an impactful and yet lasting impression on their audience. This had to be exciting, fast, and yet convey the correct information for an audience of only the finest entrepreneurs. We produced this video in both English and Welsh.
An impactful video advert is vital to any brand, whether it's a B2B or B2C, law firm or animal charity, having that key video that engages people and builds trust can be a game-changer for marketing, sales and overall awareness efforts. They can showcase your purpose, your mission, your unique selling points, in a way that will make people actually listen – and more importantly, act. Think about your customers journey, especially with the benefits of technology video production. Whether they land from a Google search to your website, from word of mouth to one of your social media channels, from an email marketing campaign to a landing page, or anything else, what are they looking to see? Put them first, make their lives easier and connect quickly and emotionally.
Attention spans are short – we ensure you get your message across effectively, especially when it comes to companies promotional videos. We believe video is about storytelling, and your brand stories can directly or in-directly showcase your organisation, explain how you make a difference, the values that matter most to you, discuss your unique selling points, all in order to achieve more sales and increase your brand awareness. Overall, building trust and connecting emotionally. We’ll ensure we do the competitor analysis and brainstorm ideas to ensure you stand out in video.
de Novo - BPO Announcement
People Stories
Video Production
Category: Work
de Novo – BPO Announcement
de Novo – BPO Announcement
de Novo Solutions, a multi-award-winning Welsh technology company, specialising in delivering personalised, data-driven digital experiences across Finance, HR, and Payroll functions, using Oracle Cloud and ServiceNow, is pleased to announce the launch of its Artificial Intelligence-driven Next Generation Shared Services business operation. We utilized our technology video production services to produce a video that would leave an impactful and yet lasting impression on their audience.
People Stories
A key promotional video is vital to any brand, whether it's a B2B or B2C, law firm or animal charity, having that key video that engages people and builds trust can be a game-changer for marketing, sales and overall awareness efforts. They can showcase your purpose, your mission, your unique selling points, in a way that will make people actually listen – and more importantly, act. Think about your customers journey, especially with the benefits of technology video production. Whether they land from a Google search to your website, from word of mouth to one of your social media channels, from an email marketing campaign to a landing page, or anything else, what are they looking to see? Put them first, make their lives easier and connect quickly and emotionally.
Video Production
Attention spans are short – we ensure you get your message across effectively, especially when it comes to companies promotional videos. We believe video is about storytelling, and your brand stories can directly or in-directly showcase your organisation, explain how you make a difference, the values that matter most to you, discuss your unique selling points, all in order to achieve more sales and increase your brand awareness. Overall, building trust and connecting emotionally. We’ll ensure we do the competitor analysis and brainstorm ideas to ensure you stand out in video.
de Novo – Recruitment
de Novo – Recruitment
de Novo Solutions is a technology company that does things differently. In their words: we pride ourselves in being a close supportive family unit with a strong team-working ethic and a “work hard, play hard” mentality. We aim to exceed expectations whilst, at all times, putting the customers’ needs as our top priority. Since we’ve produced many video projects for de Novo, we know that they can certainly back this up, as their staff story videos will also testify. In this high impact form of recruitment video marketing, we ensure their energy and values shine through.
Hiring Perspective
Think about your hiring applicants journey. Talent has plenty of options for opportunities, so what’s going to make them choose yours, and cut through costly recruitment fees? Is company culture and values important to them? They’re likely jumping from website to website, reading great walls of text, all in the hopes of finding the perfect company. Recruitment videos save them time, as once they find your videos, they can be enticed to watch, engaged by what they see, and be happy to cut straight to the point, in the process getting them to feel and act. Recruitment video marketing proves to be the way forward time and time again for engaging and winning more business.
Video Production
Attention spans are short – we ensure you get your message across effectively, especially when it comes to companies promotional videos. We believe video is about storytelling, and your brand stories can directly or in-directly showcase your organisation, explain how you make a difference, the values that matter most to you, discuss your unique selling points, all in order to achieve more sales and increase your brand awareness. Overall, building trust and connecting emotionally. We’ll ensure we do the competitor analysis and brainstorm ideas to ensure you stand out in video.
Evie’s Story
Evie’s Story
𝗘𝘃𝗶𝗲’𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆: 𝗔 𝗙𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗮 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁. Evie is not a real child. But her story could soon be real — for thousands. In this short film, we imagine a world where a mother fights to protect her disabled daughter… and loses. Not because she was neglectful, but because the law presumed she was. This video received more than 60,000 views on Facebook from SinclairsLaw's CEO, Michael Charles. We produced this emotive brand film using filmed interviews, a nice script and stock footage to connect with Michael's audience on Facebook where we have been working to build up his brand for a long time. Alongside this, we captured various video podcasts.
Narrative Storytelling
An emotive brand film is unmatched in video production efforts in connecting with an audience. We focused on showcasing the 'why' instead of the 'what' for the products existence. Focusing on the emotional attachment and a relatable story was vital in bringing this marketing campaign to life. People love stories and want to connect on a deeper level, especially if a product is based around sentiment, so producing emotionally impactful and relatable stories offers a greater opportunity for audience success.
Brand Films
Brand films tell an emotional story that – directly or indirectly – promotes an organization, service or product. These are designed to connect with a target audience in a different way than most videos produced by a business. The goal isn't to hard sell your audience with what makes you the best, but to create content that makes them relate, or laugh, or cry, or just simply know and like your brand. Overall, connecting the audience to your brand's core messages. These are narrative-based, potentially emotional, short films made by talented filmmakers to convey the heart of a brand – think John Lewis at Christmas and their Man on the Moon advert.
PrentisPlus
Prentis+
Prentis+ is the recruitment app designed to make finding the perfect apprenticeship opportunity simple, fast, and personalized for young people aged 16-25. Naturally, technology promotional videos are crucial in humanizing a software, and as such we produced a promotional video that would engage and build trust with their typically younger audience, whilst having a relatable story that would cause them to sign up, whilst working to combat the short attention spans. We decided to produce a video that had a more creative storyline compared to the typical salesy talking head interviews, to make people relate and feel other than think and decide.
People Stories
A key promotional video is vital to any brand, whether it's a B2B or B2C, law firm or animal charity, having that key video that engages people and builds trust can be a game-changer for marketing, sales and overall awareness efforts. They can showcase your purpose, your mission, your unique selling points, in a way that will make people actually listen – and more importantly, act. Think about your customers journey, especially with technology promotional videos. Whether they land from a Google search to your website, from word of mouth to one of your social media channels, from an email marketing campaign to a landing page, or anything else, what are they looking to see? Put them first, make their lives easier and connect quickly and emotionally.
Video Production
Attention spans are short – we ensure you get your message across effectively, especially when it comes to companies promotional videos. We believe video is about storytelling, and your brand stories can directly or in-directly showcase your organisation, explain how you make a difference, the values that matter most to you, discuss your unique selling points, all in order to achieve more sales and increase your brand awareness. Overall, building trust and connecting emotionally. We’ll ensure we do the competitor analysis and brainstorm ideas to ensure you stand out in video.
Black Swan Ballers
Black Swan Ballers
Black Swan Ballers is an original series by us to look to promote the 5-a-side culture of football. Whilst Ballers could be seen as simply producing sport videos, our intent is to build a following on social media and showcase the mental health benefits through socializing, by pushing the boundaries in exploring different forms of capturing content. We release episodes occasionally on YouTube, but focus more often on sharing shorter clips on Instagram and TikTok. In the long term we'd love to bring on sponsors to ensure the show can not only survived, but grow, and have a wider impact. Producing this show helps us better understand the ins and outs of social media too.
Impact of Stories
Think about the impact that videos have on people. They connect on a human level and leave a lasting impression. We consume so much content and data every day, and the really powerful stories still always stand out, because that's what makes us human. This can be with sport videos, promotional videos, brand films, case study videos, or anything else. With Ballers, we're looking to bring the humour and reality of sport to the forefront of peoples minds. Producing content that is purely for your target audience is a different approach to most content produced, which is often heavily influenced by many decision makers perceptions.
Video Production
Attention spans are short – we ensure you get your message across effectively, especially when it comes to financial services video production. Video is about storytelling, and your brand stories can directly or in-directly showcase your organisation, explain how you make a difference, the values that matter most to you, discuss your unique selling points, all in order to achieve more sales and increase your brand awareness. Overall, building trust and connecting emotionally. We’ll ensure we do the competitor analysis and brainstorm ideas to ensure you stand out in video.
Black Swan Podcast Episode 4: Film/TV in Wales
Introduction
In our fourth episode of The Black Swan Podcast, we explore the evolving landscape of Welsh film and TV with a distinguished panel of industry leaders:
David P. Davis (Founder of 5 Acts Productions, former Exec Producer at Bad Wolf) Wiliam Gruffydd Edwards (Former Head of Production at Boomerang and Wildflame) Lee Walters (CEO of Ffilm Cymru Wales) Rahim Mastafa (Freelance TV Editor) Thaer Al-Shayei (Actor – Baghdad Central, Mosul).
Together, they discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Welsh film and TV, including the impact of economic shifts, the role of streaming platforms, and the realities of freelance work. We also explore personal journeys, the rise of local talent post-COVID, and the unique qualities of Welsh productions.
Listen to the audio version here.
At Black Swan Productions, we create purposeful branded and original content. To see our work, visit: www.blackswanproductions.co.uk Interested in joining the podcast or inquiries? Contact us at: contact@blackswanproductions.co.uk
Timecodes
0:00 – 0:11: Podcast intro and panel introduction
0:11 – 1:05: Panelists introduce themselves
1:05 – 4:10: Welsh film and TV industry challenges and opportunities
4:10 – 6:00: Independent film tax credit impact
6:00 – 8:30: Breaking into the industry in Wales
8:30 – 10:00: Effect of commissioning halts on unscripted sector
10:00 – 13:00: Streaming platforms and international competition
13:00 – 15:00: Budget constraints and funding gaps
15:00 – 17:00: Personal impacts of industry challenges
17:00 – 19:00: Demand for local actors post-COVID
19:00 – 20:00: Evolution of film distribution
20:07 – 23:10: TV viewing habits shift to binge-watching
23:10 – 24:39: Need for tax incentives for mid-level TV
24:39 – 26:03: Doctor Who's impact on Welsh TV industry
26:03 – 29:01: Decline in production due to streaming wars
29:01 – 30:04: Changing viewing habits with short-form content
30:04 – 31:35: Impact of second-screening on modern audiences
31:36 – 33:01: YouTube content vs. traditional scripted shows
33:02 – 34:09: Simplicity vs. craftsmanship in content production
34:10 – 35:46: Influence of Spotify and TikTok on creative industries
35:47 – 36:52: Advice for entering the film and TV industry
36:53 – 39:00: Key advice on career progression
39:01 – 40:05: Importance of networking and having the right agent
40:05 – 41:57: Learning, asking questions, and exploring roles
41:58 – 43:05: Being open to various career paths
43:06 – 45:56: Being prepared for industry meetings
46:02 – 47:15: Dream projects and aspirations
47:16 – 49:29: Discussion on influential shows
49:30 – 50:23: Nostalgic value of Quantum Leap
50:09 – 54:08: Favorite Welsh productions
54:08 – 55:04: Quick-fire round on favorite films
55:04 – 56:02: Closing remarks and social media handles
The Film & TV Industry in Wales
Having the panel on The Black Swan Podcast offered a unique perspective on the evolving Welsh film and TV landscape, the importance of long-term vision, and strategies for creating meaningful connections with diverse audiences. Their insights into navigating the challenges of a changing industry while staying true to a project’s core values provided valuable lessons for filmmakers, producers, and marketers alike.
In discussing the Welsh film sector, the panel emphasized the role of authentic storytelling and local talent in building trust and fostering engagement. This resonates with broader film industry trends: authenticity and creativity often take precedence over flashy gimmicks when it comes to making a lasting impact on viewers.
For professionals in the film and TV world, their insights underscore the importance of understanding your audience on a deeper level—how they think, what they value, and how they engage with content. Whether through narrative, embracing new platforms, or adapting to industry shifts, effective film production requires a thoughtful, deliberate approach.
We hope the panel’s experiences inspire you to reflect on your own strategies, whether you're navigating industry challenges, building projects, or finding new ways to connect with your audience.
Let us know your key takeaways from this episode, and don’t forget to follow The Black Swan Podcast for more conversations with industry leaders exploring the world of film, TV, and entrepreneurship.
The Power of Educational Videos
Introduction
Educational content is booming, and it’s no wonder why. In an age where audiences crave insights and authenticity, providing valuable knowledge is a game-changer for businesses aiming to build trust and authority in their industries. At Black Swan Productions, we’ve seen firsthand how educational videos can transform businesses into thought leaders, drive engagement, and ultimately lead to growth. Let’s explore why these videos are such a powerful tool and how they can benefit your brand.
Solving Problems, Building Trust
Every business has expertise that can address the challenges of its target audience. In the professional services sector, for instance, educational videos showcase this expertise, offering potential customers valuable insights. When businesses provide solutions to real-world problems, they build trust, and trust lays the foundation for loyalty.
Creating Reciprocity with Your Audience
Educational videos work on a simple principle: give before you ask. By providing useful, free content, businesses foster a sense of reciprocity. Viewers feel appreciated and are more likely to consider the company for future needs. This approach shifts the dynamic from selling to serving—a move that builds long-term relationships.
Simplifying the Complex
Many industries deal with intricate concepts or services. Educational videos break down these complexities, making them easy for customers to understand. This clarity eases decision-making, reduces hesitation, and positions your business as approachable and knowledgeable.
Enhancing Credibility and Transparency
Transparency is a key driver of trust. By addressing common questions and concerns openly, educational videos demonstrate a brand’s willingness to help. This authenticity reinforces the company’s credibility and encourages deeper engagement from potential customers.
Capturing Attention and Creating Connection
In a world with shrinking attention spans, video stands out. It’s engaging, dynamic, and has the unique ability to showcase personality. Whether it’s the warmth of your team or the energy of your brand, video creates emotional connections that static content simply can’t match.
Boosting SEO and Online Visibility
Educational videos not only engage viewers but also improve your online visibility. Search engines like Google prioritize video content, and having high-quality educational videos on your website or social channels can boost your SEO rankings. This means more potential customers will find you when searching for relevant solutions, increasing traffic to your site and expanding your reach. By consistently publishing helpful content, you establish your business as an authoritative resource, driving long-term organic growth.
Best Narrative Short at Cynon Valley Film Festival – Control Room
Context
We entered Cynon Valley Film Festival and their short film competition with our first independent horror short film, Control Room. It's a festival run by a filmmaker with the emphasis on great visuals, great soundtracks and great storytelling. Cynon Valley Museum in Aberdare. Their goal is to promote the work of independent film makers and embrace cutting edge digital techniques. Traditional film making is most welcome, of course but so are films made on smartphones.
Response
“We’ve done it again! Thrilled to announce that we won Best Narrative Short at the Cynon Valley Film Festival on Saturday, alongside two of our amazing actresses. While Black Swan Productions is known for creating impactful videos for purpose-led brands, we’re also expanding our portfolio with horror short films. Our first film, Control Room, is gaining momentum on its festival run. 💪”
Check out the trailer: https://lnkd.in/gevPJzbt
Learn more on our website: https://lnkd.in/e-dd8YvG“
Pictured: Haydn Wakeling, Nikolina Holuk, Anna Shaw.
Story
Singer/songwriter Eli Fretter’s manager, Gill, has booked him into a state of the art studio space, in an attempt to encourage him to leave his traditional sensibilities and penchant for acoustic music and analog recording techniques behind, instead taking his place in the digital landscape of modern, electronic, music. The night before his booking, Eli finds himself stranded in the studio with the strange receptionist, who insists that, with nowhere else to go, he spend the night in one of their live-rooms. Things take a surreal and nightmarish turn for Eli as reality appears to bend and distort, transporting him to-and-fro from the studio to a mysterious music venue and eventually to a dungeon, followed by a monstrous cloaked figure. Able to trust neither the eerie receptionist nor his controlling manager Gill, Eli discovers an otherworldly connection between his rapidly mutating body and the studio’s electronic equipment, which builds into a shocking climax that goes out with a flash.
Black Swan Podcast Episode 3: Pablo Quintela (International Marketer)
Introduction
In the third episode of The Black Swan Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of marketing and brand with Pablo Quintela, Senior Marketing Manager at Celtic English Academy and former Creative Director for international agencies.
Pablo shares insights into his career journey, the importance of thinking long-term in marketing strategies, and why brands should prioritize storytelling and customer voices. From avoiding fleeting trends to building trust and connecting with diverse audiences, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for marketers and brand managers alike.
Click here to listen to the audio alternative of the episode.
At Black Swan Productions, we specialize in producing branded content, including thought leadership projects like this podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode, and if you’d like to join the podcast or collaborate with us, please reach out at contact@blackswanproductions.co.uk.
Timecodes
0-0:49: Introduction to the episode.
0:49-1:11: Introduction to Pablo.
1:11-2:15: Pablo’s professional journey.
2:15-3:03: Core values and how they impact his marketing and leadership.
3:03-3:56: Proudest career movement so far.
3:56-05:08: How he ensures a distinctive voice for the Celtic English Academy brand.
05:08-06:13: Evolving a brand's identity while staying true to their core values.
06:13-07:44: Emotive campaigns and the importance of customer testimonials.
07:44-09:15: Strategies for connecting with a target audience.
09:15-10:23: Staying ahead of trends in the education sector.
10:23-11:18: Building and keeping trust with your audience.
11:18-12:32: The impact of storytelling on marketing efforts.
12:32-13:28: Marketing tactics for attracting new students in the education sector.
13:28-14:36: How marketers can avoid greenwashing.
14:36-17:00: Marketing for a Welsh audience and global audiences.
17:00-18:35: Connecting with a diverse audience and showcasing diversity.
18:35-19:30: The importance of data in marketing campaigns.
19:30-21:00: Advice for marketers at different stages of their careers.
Educational Sector Marketing
Having Pablo on The Black Swan Podcast offered a unique perspective on the power of storytelling, the importance of long-term thinking, and strategies for building authentic connections with diverse audiences. His approach to staying true to a brand's core values while navigating evolving market trends is a valuable lesson for marketers across all sectors.
In the education sector, Pablo emphasized the role of emotive campaigns and customer voices in building trust and fostering engagement. This resonates with broader marketing principles: authenticity and relatability often outweigh flashy trends when it comes to making a lasting impact.
For marketers, his insights highlight the importance of understanding your audience on a deeper level—how they think, what they value, and how they interact with your brand. Whether through storytelling, leveraging data responsibly, or adapting to cultural nuances, effective marketing requires a thoughtful, deliberate approach.
We hope Pablo’s experiences inspire you to reflect on your own marketing strategies, whether you're leading campaigns, building brand identities, or finding innovative ways to connect with your audience.
Let us know your key takeaways from this episode, and don’t forget to follow The Black Swan Podcast for more conversations with industry leaders exploring marketing, brand, and entrepreneurship.