Most medical device companies approach their first animation project the same way: they reach out to a studio, describe what they need, and expect the studio to figure out the rest.
That works—but it's slow, expensive, and leaves too much to interpretation.
The companies that get the best results do something different: they prepare.
Here's exactly what to gather before your first discovery call to make the process faster, clearer, and more cost-effective.
1. Define the Goal
Before anything else, know why you're commissioning the animation. Common goals:
Each goal requires a different approach, pacing, and level of detail. Be specific about what success looks like.
2. Know Your Audience
Who will actually watch this animation?
The same device can require completely different animations depending on the audience. A regulatory MOA is not the same as a trade show highlight reel.
3. Gather Technical Assets
The more you provide up front, the faster the project moves. Ideal assets include:
If you don't have CAD files, that's okay—but let the studio know early so they can plan accordingly.
4. Provide Clinical Context
Animation studios aren't surgeons. Help them understand:
If you have surgical videos, IFUs (Instructions for Use), or white papers, share them. They provide essential context.
5. Clarify the Deliverable Format
What format do you actually need?
Knowing this up front avoids costly revisions later.
6. Set a Realistic Timeline
High-quality medical animation takes time. Typical timelines:
If you have a hard deadline (trade show, investor meeting, regulatory submission), communicate that early. Rush projects are possible, but they cost more.
7. Understand Budget Ballparks
Medical animation isn't cheap—because it shouldn't be. Typical ranges:
If your budget is lower, say so. Some studios can work within constraints by reducing scope, length, or polish.
8. Identify Internal Stakeholders
Who needs to approve the animation?
Knowing this up front helps structure the review process and avoid surprise feedback loops.
A good discovery call should cover:
The studio should ask detailed questions. If they don't, that's a red flag.
During your first conversation, be cautious if the studio:
A good animation partner will clarify expectations, not gloss over them.
If the call goes well, the next steps are typically:
This is when the real work begins.
The difference between a smooth animation project and a chaotic one usually comes down to preparation.
If you walk into your discovery call with a clear goal, relevant assets, and realistic expectations, you'll get better work, faster timelines, and fewer surprises.
And if the studio you're talking to doesn't appreciate that preparation? Find one that does.