Producing the video

Our goal is to showcase you and your company in the best light possible. The video-enhanced story is your way of telling your story directly – to a global audience of eager viewers.

Where will the interview take place?
If you're visiting SAS headquarters, we'll conduct the interview in our state-of-the-art studio. If you're visiting a SAS regional office or if we travel to your work site, we'll need a large conference room or similar space. And we often tape interviews at our own events that you may be attending, such as SAS executive conferences.

How long does the interview last?
The interview usually takes about an hour.

What kind of questions will the interviewer ask?
Whether for written stories or video-enhanced pieces, we focus on your industry expertise, thought leadership and unique use of SAS as well as the benefits you've gained from using SAS solutions and technologies.

Typical questions include:

• What unique business challenges do you face in your industry and how has SAS helped you overcome them?
• Can you describe specific examples of how you used SAS to address those challenges?
• How would you have addressed these challenges without SAS?
• Why did you choose SAS?
• What business benefits have you gained as a result of using SAS? Metrics might include: increases in revenue, productivity, shareholder value and time to market; decreased cost in implementation and maintenance; reduced employee turnover; and enhanced security.
• How has SAS helped you achieve a competitive edge?

Can I receive a full copy of the questions in advance?
If you'd like, we can send you sample questions in advance. But please don't memorize your answers. You'll come across as more confident and relaxed if your responses are spontaneous and unrehearsed.

How can we ensure that I come across as relaxed, confident and professional?
You should always look at the interviewer when answering a question. Speak in your normal voice and relax – smiles and gestures will make you look even more confident and comfortable. Brief, concise answers are best. And don't worry: If you don't like your answer or make a mistake, we can always start over.

What should I wear?
Business casual or a suit is fine; a conservative look works best. Avoid wearing tight patterns such as stripes or herringbone and avoid solid white or black tops. Also, don't wear green, because we use a green background and key in a different image for the final project. So whatever's green will disappear.

Also we might need to apply a light dusting of translucent powder because television lights can make both men and women look pale.

What should I expect if you conduct the interview at my organization's facilities?
It usually takes our crew 90 minutes to set up, and the interview lasts about an hour. Because our microphones are sensitive, we'll need a quiet, out-of-the-way spot. We prefer a room without windows, or at least one with blinds that we can close. Moveable furniture, controllable lights and nearby access to a freight entrance are all pluses. Once the interview is complete, we'll need about an hour to pack up.

What happens after the interview?
After the interview, we will transcribe the videotape and pick sound bites to use in the script. Then, we'll send you the script for review and approval by you and your legal, PR and/or corporate communications teams. Once we've received your approval, we'll hire a professional narrator, assemble the graphics and needed footage, or B-roll, edit the video and post it on the Web.

What is B-roll?
B-roll is raw, unedited video footage of your business, products and operations. It allows us to build a fast-paced, visually interesting video. We would prefer that your company provide approved high definition (HD) B-roll.  We can accept the following formats: XDCam, P2 files, or Quicktime files (H.264 Codec).  Also, we may determine it’s best to shoot our own B-roll footage at your facility.  We’ll work with your team to coordinate this. 

May I see a sample of a finished video-enhanced success story?
Sure. Check out our list of customer success stories and click on those whose listings carry the video camera icon.

Ready to Participate?

	Review our processes for producing a written customer success story
	Contact a SAS Reference Program representative