DHL Express
DHL Express is shifting its annual Employee Opinion Survey (EOS) to the SmartConnect app, aiming to move away from traditional paper-based feedback. We were given creative freedom to develop a fun, attention-grabbing video to explain why the EOS is so important, why employees should get involved and how they can access the survey.
We wanted to produce something that was less of your typical explainer video, and something that would capture the imagination of the employees. A video they would really want to watch. The idea of the 8-bit retro game blends nostalgia with modern convenience and efficiency, and we thought it would demonstrate that making the switch from paper feedback to digital, isn’t just for the tech-savvy—anyone can do it, and it’s even fun!
Character development and worldbuilding
We wanted to take the employees on a journey into the world of DHL Express (somewhere recognisable!) through the eyes of our “Hero,” a DHL employee who needs to submit feedback (representing every employee). Her sidekick? A friendly, floating Smiley face—representing SmartConnect—who guides her through a series of digital “levels” inspired by DHL’s values and global operations. The DHL CEO, John Pearson, even makes a cameo appearance.
Movement for main characters
Environments
Rough + Final Storyboards
The Result
“What can I say – the video was very well received, used in many different locations and during events and even recognized by our other business units and the DHL Group team. We added subtitles in many different languages and people just love it. We never received so much positive feedback on a video about our employee opinion survey. I enjoyed the process with you a lot – you got what we are about within weeks and that’s rare!”
-Janine Langlotz, Head of Internal Comms at DHL