Do I need to have a script or concept ready, or will SVZ help with that?

You do not need to have a fully-formed script or storyboard ready – one big value of hiring a video agency is that they help develop the concept and script with you. Many clients come with just an objective (“we want to demonstrate our product” or “we need a promo video for our new service”) and maybe a few ideas. The agency’s creative team can take it from there:

• If you have ideas, they’ll refine them: Perhaps you know you want an interview with the CEO or an animation using your mascot – the agency will incorporate those elements and build around them.
• If you have nothing, they’ll ideate: Agencies are used to blank-slate projects. They’ll brainstorm concepts that align with your brand and goal. For example, they might propose a storyline or a particular visual style after learning about your brand voice.
• Scriptwriting: Yes, agencies typically provide copywriting for the video. They will write the voiceover script or interview questions and draft any on-screen text. Good agencies are skilled in writing concise, impactful scripts that fit the short format of video.
• Storyboarding: They can sketch out a visual plan so you can see how the story will unfold before filming.

In essence, you can be as hands-on or hands-off in concept development as you like. Some clients come with a detailed vision; others say “you’re the experts, pitch us something.” Both scenarios are fine. Pilothouse addressed this in their FAQ: when asked if the client should have a script, they answered that you don’t need to have one – you don’t even need a concept; you can just explain your marketing needs and they’ll help come up with the right video concept together  . “You don’t need to have a script or storyboard prepared to work with us – you don’t even need a concept… we can develop the script and storyboard once we decide on a direction,” they reassure . This is typical of good agencies.

However, your input is valuable in the discovery phase. You know your brand and audience best. The more context and inspiration you share (like “we really like this competitor’s video” or “our customers respond well to humor”), the better the agency can tailor the concept. But don’t worry about the actual writing – they have professionals for that.

At SVZ, for example, we often get raw input like, “We’d love a video that makes our tech product feel human and easy to use.” From there, our writers and creatives might propose doing a day-in-the-life video of a person using the product, or a motion graphic that simplifies the tech. We handle script drafts, run them by the client for feedback, and iterate until the concept and narrative feel right.

So, no need to stress about writing a Hollywood-level script on your own. Come with your objectives and any initial ideas – the agency will collaborate with you to shape those into a compelling video game plan. As the client, your job is primarily to provide direction, feedback, and approvals; the agency’s job is to bring the storytelling and production expertise.

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