A User Spotlight with Bill LaBranche
When it comes to communicating complex ideas clearly, Bill LaBranche at 3M has found his secret weapon: VideoScribe! From data literacy to AI education, Bill’s animations are simplifying sophisticated subjects and captivating viewers across one of the world’s largest companies.
In this user showcase, Bill shares how VideoScribe is helping 3M connect the dots between complexity and clarity — one whiteboard video at a time. Let’s dive into his inspiring journey, filled with creative insights, powerful tools, and expert tips! 💡✍️
✨ A Clever Way to Communicate
Bill first discovered VideoScribe after seeing a few hand-drawn scribble videos online. Instantly intrigued, he was drawn to the informal yet effective style of storytelling they offered. When he realized he could create this same effect with VideoScribe:
“I gave it a try — and I’ve never looked back.”
Fast forward 5+ years, and VideoScribe has become Bill’s go-to tool for breaking down big ideas across 3M’s global business.
🧠 Making Complex Concepts Easy to Understand
At a company like 3M — with over a million products and more than 9 million customers worldwide — even a simple topic like “inventory” can come with layers of nuance.
“A scribble video lets you deliver complex content one piece at a time,” Bill explains. “The hand-drawn style pulls the viewer’s focus exactly where you want it, and when combined with voiceover, the results are powerful.”
Instead of overwhelming viewers with dense charts or walls of text, Bill uses VideoScribe to guide understanding through storyboarding and animation, transforming abstract ideas into memorable visuals.
🎯 Key takeaway: With VideoScribe, complex content becomes accessible — and understandable content sticks.
🚀 Real Impact Across the Organization
Bill shares some standout examples of his animated video success: first up an animated explainer video designed to unpack the layered concept of inventory. While “inventory” might sound straightforward, it’s anything but simple in a global supply chain.
“Once a script is created to explain the concept, VideoScribe brings it to life in a way no other medium can.”
Bill’s animations have become essential tools for internal training, data literacy campaigns, and employee development — helping teams across 3M grasp big-picture concepts and granular details with ease.
🔧 Favorite Features That Make a Big Difference
Bill is a big fan of the tools that allow for precision and creativity — without needing advanced design skills:
- 🔍 Camera movements: Zoom in to highlight the details, then zoom out for the big picture.
- ❌ Whiteboard erase effect: “We had problem X… (erase) now we solve it with Y!” It’s visual storytelling magic.”
- 🧠 Noun Project integration: Bill calls these graphics his “secret weapon.” Whatever concept he’s looking to represent, the perfect visual is just a search away. (You can find these in the ‘Icons’ tab of the image library).
📈 How 3M Measures Animation Success
For Bill, success goes beyond view counts (though those matter too!). It’s about creating something share-worthy — internally and externally.
“If the subject matter expert is excited to share the video, I call that a win.”
That enthusiasm shows in how videos are shared across teams, generate comments, spark conversations, and even support broader business initiatives.
💬 Bill’s Advice for Other Technical Professionals
If you’re in data, AI, analytics, or any other technical field and thinking of diving into video, Bill’s advice is simple and golden:
- 💡 Context is King!
Help viewers understand the why behind your message, and the how will follow more naturally. - ✍️ Script First
Spend time crafting your script. A solid script = a smoother animation process and stronger final product. - ⏱️ Keep it Short
Aim for under 5 minutes (bonus points if it’s under 4!) to keep engagement high. - 📚 Provide Next Steps
Always include a resource link or reference point for viewers who want to learn more.
🎬 Final Thoughts
Bill LaBranche’s creative use of VideoScribe at 3M is a shining example of how animation and storyboarding can bridge the gap between complexity and clarity. Whether it’s teaching data literacy, simplifying inventory systems, or encouraging employee resilience, his work proves that any concept can be made engaging and understandable with the right tools.
Want to tell your story like Bill?
🎉 Start your free 7-day VideoScribe trial and start transforming your ideas into captivating visuals today!
Want to Be Our Next User Story?
We’re always looking for creators like Bill who are using VideoScribe to make a difference! Drop us a message and you could be our next feature! 💌
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