Many organizations are investing in video to establish expertise and connect with audiences. But before committing to an in-house studio, it’s worth asking: is that really the most cost-effective video strategy? For most, outsourced video production offers the smarter balance of quality, flexibility, and budget.
The Real Costs of an In-House Studio
The numbers add up quickly:
- Camera package: $15k+
- Studio buildout: $50k+
- Staff: $250k+ per year
That’s a six-figure investment—before the first video is even produced. And yet, many organizations discover they don’t generate enough content to justify those costs.
The Hidden Risk: Underuse
It’s a familiar story: expensive studios sitting empty, equipment collecting dust, and salaried crews underutilized. In some cases, organizations churn out unnecessary content simply to defend the investment—an approach that drains resources without delivering real value.
Even major TV stations, with multi-million-dollar studios, only use them a fraction of the day. The reality is that most businesses and associations will never need that level of continuous production.
Why Outsourced Video Production Works Better
An outsourced video team provides the best of both worlds:
- Professional quality without the cost of ownership
- Skilled experts on demand without permanent payroll
- Flexible, cost-effective video strategy aligned with actual needs
Instead of being locked into fixed overhead, outsourcing allows organizations to scale production up or down—producing the right content at the right time without wasted investment.
A Smarter Approach to Video
A thoughtful communications strategy isn’t about building the biggest studio—it’s about making resources work smarter. For most organizations, outsourced video production delivers better results, more flexibility, and long-term financial efficiency.
Northbound Strategy helps organizations stop overspending on in-house production and start creating flexible, effective video strategies that drive real impact. Let’s talk about how outsourced video production can work for your organization.
