How YouTube Works
2021
Oddfellows
I had the pleasure of teaming up with the fantastic folks at Oddfellows to lead the creative direction for a series of extensive YouTube videos aptly titled "How YouTube Works." These ten to fifteen-minute videos delve into the intricacies of YouTube, covering topics like policy enforcement, protection against harassment, machine learning, and the identification of potentially harmful content.
Taking an editorial approach, the videos feature talking heads paired with animated graphics, creating a dynamic blend that breaks down complex concepts. Our approach included call-and-response questions and answers, with real YouTube experts addressing the camera while animated characters brought scenarios to life in clever ways.
Right from the get-go, I jumped in to assist Jarratt Moody, Creative Director at Oddfellows, in breaking down lengthy scripts, storyboarding, and defining the perfect style for the films. Throughout the year-long project, I played a pivotal role in seamlessly integrating additional teams on both the YouTube and Oddfellows sides. To maintain a consistent style, I crafted a visual style guide for the design team, and our lead animators collaborated with a team of 2D animators to ensure a cohesive voice across the entire series of films. It was a collaborative effort that resulted in a comprehensive and engaging exploration of how YouTube operates.
How YouTube Develops Policy
How YouTube Enforces Policy
How YouTube Protects Our Community from Harassment
Preroll Tips for Online Information Accuracy
Myself and the team were also given two additional short animation tasks. These took the form of practical tips for YouTube users on handling situations that may arise while checking for accuracy in online information.
Iconography
As we crafted the storyboards and illustrations for the animations, we also built a library of iconography that seamlessly extended to both print and online applications in the How YouTube Works campaign. I personally designed some of these icons, and the talented team at Oddfellows contributed many others.
Spot Illustrations
In addition to crafting animated content and iconography, we were tasked with creating spot illustrations for use on the HowYouTube Works website. These illustrations focused on themes like YouTube's impact on climate change, its commitment to fostering safe content for both children and families, and its community outreach efforts.
