Commissioning a video project—whether it’s a commercial, company profile, explainer, or branded content can be exciting. You’re investing in something that will represent your brand, tell your story, and connect with your audience. But let’s be honest: the process isn’t always smooth. In fact, a few common missteps can lead to missed deadlines, ballooning budgets, and a final video that just doesn’t hit the mark.
At Sante Productions, we’ve seen how a little clarity upfront can prevent major headaches later. So here are five mistakes to avoid when commissioning a video project, especially if you’re working with a production house in Jakarta or anywhere else.
1. Commissioning a Video Project Without Clear Goals
One of the biggest mistakes clients make is jumping into production without knowing what they want to say or why they’re saying it. A video is not just about looking pretty—it’s about communicating something clearly and meaningfully.
Avoid this by:
- Writing down your objective in one sentence: “We want to [goal] so that [desired impact].”
- Identifying your target audience.
- Listing 2–3 key messages you want viewers to remember.
Remember: Production houses are great at storytelling, but they need your input to build a story that reflects your goals.
🎯 Recommended Read: HubSpot’s guide on creating effective video content
2. Skipping the Brief (or Making One That’s Too Vague)
A good creative brief is like a compass for the entire team. It doesn’t have to be long or fancy, but it should outline key information like timeline, audience, tone, brand values, and must-haves.
What happens when it’s missing? You’ll get revisions on top of revisions, frustration on both sides, and possibly a final video that feels “off.”
Tip: Ask your production partner if they can help co-create the brief. At Sante, we often help clients articulate their needs during kickoff meetings.
3. Not Involving the Right People Early Enough
Sometimes, the marketing team commissions a video without looping in upper management, legal, or other departments who may have strong opinions later. This leads to delays, last-minute changes, or even re-shoots.
Avoid this by:
- Getting early buy-in from key decision makers.
- Sharing the treatment or storyboard for feedback before production.
- Confirming who has final approval authority (and making sure they’re involved from the start).
4. Underestimating Timelines
Many clients ask: “Can we have the final video by next week?” While tight turnarounds are sometimes possible, high-quality production takes time. Concepting, scripting, casting, shooting, and editing all involve multiple steps and people.
A realistic timeline allows for:
- Proper pre-production and planning.
- Buffer for feedback rounds.
- Creative breathing room (which improves quality).
Rule of thumb: The earlier you involve the production house, the smoother the process will be. Don’t wait until the last minute.
5. Focusing Only on Price (Instead of Value)
Budget matters—of course. But going for the cheapest quote without understanding what’s included can lead to disappointment. Some questions to ask:
- Does the quote include revisions?
- Is talent/casting/locations covered?
- Who owns the final footage?
A good production house will be transparent about cost breakdowns and help you understand what you’re getting. At Sante Productions, we make it a point to discuss your budget and how to make the most of it, without compromising the message. You can read our pricing guide here.
Final Thoughts: Think Partnership, Not Just Service
The best video projects happen when clients and production teams work like partners. Shared vision, open communication, and mutual trust are the ingredients for something truly impactful.
At Sante Productions, we don’t just execute—we collaborate. Whether you’re a brand new to video or a seasoned marketer, we’ll walk with you from concept to final cut, ensuring your story is told with clarity and heart.
