Top Tools for Storyboarding Your Next Promo Animation

Creating a compelling promo animation starts with a solid storyboard. Storyboarding isn’t just about sketching scenes; it’s about visualizing the story, mapping out the narrative, and ensuring that every frame aligns with the brand’s message. Whether you’re a creative professional or a company exploring animation for the first time, choosing the right tool can make or break your workflow. 

At Plumcat Studio, storyboarding is one of the most important steps in the whole animation process. We’ve tested countless tools to find the ones that truly deliver. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top tools for storyboarding promo animations, starting with our personal favorite.

1. Boords.com

When it comes to storyboarding promo animations, Boords is our go-to tool. It offers a clean, intuitive interface that makes it easy to create, edit, and share storyboards with clients and teams. Here are a few reasons why Boords stands out:

• Collaboration-Friendly: Shareable links and team access allow seamless collaboration, even on tight deadlines.
• Customization: Create storyboards tailored to your project with adjustable frame layouts, captions, and shot numbers.
• Animatic Integration: Boords has built-in tools for animatic creation, helping you bring your storyboard to life effortlessly.

For remote studios (like ours), where clear communication with clients is critical, Boords streamlines the process and ensures everyone is on the same page.

2. Krock.io

Krock.io is a powerful tool for collaborative storyboarding and project management. It’s designed to simplify the review and approval process for creative teams. Key features include: 

• Task Management: Assign tasks and track progress directly within the platform. 
• Real-Time Feedback: Clients and team members can leave comments directly on frames, ensuring clear communication.
• Version History: Keep track of changes and revisions with ease.

Krock.io is perfect for teams that value streamlined workflows and effective communication.

3. Markup.io

Markup.io is a versatile tool that enables feedback and collaboration directly on visuals, including storyboards. It’s particularly useful for teams that need quick, actionable feedback. Highlights include:

• Annotation Tools: Add comments and markups directly on storyboard frames.
• Seamless Sharing: Share links with stakeholders for instant input.
• Multi-Format Support: Works with images, PDFs, and even live websites.

For creative teams managing multiple stakeholders, Markup.io simplifies the feedback process and reduces delays.

4. Usebubbles.com

Usebubbles.com is an intuitive feedback tool designed for visual projects. While not exclusively for storyboarding, it’s a fantastic option for reviewing and refining creative work. Features include:

• Simple Feedback Collection: Gather comments and suggestions from clients in one place.
• Visual Context: Comments are pinned directly to specific parts of the frame.
• Integration: Sync with tools like Slack and Trello to keep your workflow organized.

Usebubbles.com is ideal for smaller teams looking for a lightweight, user-friendly feedback solution.

5. Storyboarder by Wonder Unit 

If you’re looking for a free, no-frills tool, Storyboarder by Wonder Unit is a fantastic option. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for quick drafts or brainstorming sessions. Key features include:

• Sketching Simplicity: Draw directly within the app or import existing images.
• Integration with Other Tools: Export to editing software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro.
• Script Sync: Align your storyboards with scripts to maintain narrative flow.

Storyboarder is ideal for creatives who want flexibility without a steep learning curve.

Who Should Use These Tools?

Whether you’re a freelancer, an animator, or a marketing manager exploring animation for the first time, the right storyboarding tool can save you time, improve collaboration, and elevate your final product. For companies in Tech, SaaS, or AI, these tools offer a structured yet creative way to visualize complex ideas, ensuring your message is clear and engaging.

Why Storyboarding Matters

Storyboarding is more than just the first step in animation; it’s the foundation of a successful project. A well-thought-out storyboard:

• Ensures alignment between creative teams and stakeholders.
• Saves time and resources by identifying potential issues early.
• Provides a clear vision for animators, making production smoother.

By investing in the right tools, you’re not just simplifying your workflow — you’re setting your project up for success.

Conclusion

From user-friendly options like Boords and Krock.io to advanced tools like Storyboarder by Wonder Unit, there’s a storyboarding solution for every need. At Plumcat Studio, we’ve seen firsthand how the right tool can transform the animation process, making it more efficient and enjoyable for everyone involved.

No matter where you are in your animation journey, investing in a reliable storyboarding tool is a step toward creating promo animations that captivate and convert. Ready to bring your next idea to life? Start with a storyboard — and make it count.