PowToon

PowToon is a video creation website that has you create short videos to explain your ideas rather than creating slide shows.  It is billed as an alternative to boring slide shows.  You create an account for free or you can “upgrade” to the Business or Pro versions to access more content. 

To get started you choose the type of template you would like to use.  There are some pre-made templates that you can select and then edit the content or you can start from scratch to create your video.     

Then you add people or characters, backgrounds, shapes, items, and transitions.  The editing screen is set up similar to PowerPoint so it has a familiar feel and is easy to navigate.  You can also add music to your video from their collection or you can upload your own.  You also have the option to add a voice over. 

When inserting images, you can choose your own or search the web.   The site will only allow you to search for Creative Commons images when searching the web.  Great for avoiding copyright infringement!

With the free version, your only option for the completed video is to export it to YouTube. If you purchase one of the paid plans then you are able to download the videos so you can present them anyway you like. 

While these short videos aren’t the best way to present all information, they are a great way to give a little more life to dry presentations. 

Give it a try and share your creations with us in the comments!