Character Animation for the CKMS Payment System

Payment technology can be difficult to explain without relying on technical language or lengthy demonstrations. CKMS wanted a more accessible way to introduce its new payment system and show how it could make everyday transactions simpler.

WaveFX created a character-based explainer animation that turned the system into a clear, friendly visual story.

Character animation company brief

CKMS needed a short video that could introduce the payment platform to potential customers, commercial partners and investors.

The animation had to explain what the system did, who it was for and why it mattered without asking viewers to understand the technology behind every transaction.

The intended audience included approximately 20,000 business owners, payment partners and technology decision-makers across the UK and Europe. The finished video would be used on the CKMS website, in sales presentations, at exhibitions and through LinkedIn.

“The characters gave us a simple way to show the payment journey from the customer’s point of view. 2d and 3D animation helps us explain complex processes conventional cameras just cant go ” Chris, Lead Animator, WaveFX

Developing the characters and story

We began by turning the CKMS proposition into a short script and storyboard. This helped the client review the complete story before detailed animation work began.

A set of original 2D characters was then created to represent customers, businesses and the payment service. Their design was kept clear and approachable so the animation could speak to a broad business audience.

The artwork was created in Adobe Illustrator and animated in After Effects. Character movement, screen graphics and on-screen text worked together to guide viewers through the payment process.

A professional voiceover and music track completed the film, with the pace carefully balanced to keep the technical information easy to follow.

Production challenges and how we addressed them

The main challenge was simplifying the payment process without removing information that potential customers would need.

We divided the explanation into a series of short visual steps. Each scene introduced one feature or benefit, giving viewers time to understand the message before the story moved forward.

Consistency was also important. Colours, typography and graphic elements were developed around the CKMS brand so the animation would sit naturally alongside its website and marketing materials.

Regular storyboard and animation reviews gave the client opportunities to check the terminology, visual details and overall message before final delivery.

The measurable outcome

The project produced one 90-second payment system explainer animation, three shorter social-media edits and versions formatted for websites, presentations and exhibition screens.

Instead of relying on several pages of written explanation, CKMS gained one reusable video that could introduce the payment system in under two minutes.

The character-led approach also gave the company a recognisable visual style that could be extended across future videos, online campaigns and customer communications.

Need to explain a technical product?

WaveFX is a character animation company and rendering service that creates animation and motion graphics for fintech, software and technology businesses. We can help with the script, storyboard, character design, voiceover and final delivery, turning a detailed product into a video your audience can quickly understand.

Please do get in touch to chat through your latest animation project or idea 01223 505600

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