In-House vs. Agency: Mastering Social AR for your brand

The captivating world of augmented reality (AR) filters is a powerful tool for brands on social media. These interactive overlays add a playful layer to user experiences, boosting engagement and brand awareness. But the question remains: should you develop AR filters in-house or partner with a social AR agency?

Building In-House:

The allure of in-house development is undeniable – complete control over the creative process and potentially lower costs. However, the path to successful AR filter creation requires careful consideration. Building an in-house team with the necessary skills can be a substantial investment. You'll need specialists in 3D modelling, animation, and software development specifically designed for AR creation. These specialists also need to stay up-to-date on the ever-evolving capabilities of different social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok.

There's also the strategic element to consider. Effective AR filters go beyond dazzling visuals; they need a clear purpose aligned with your brand goals. Developing this strategic vision often requires external expertise in marketing and social media strategy.

However, building your AR filter expertise in-house offers long-term benefits.  An in-house team becomes intimately familiar with your brand identity, allowing them to create AR filters that seamlessly integrate with your overall marketing strategy and messaging. Additionally, having a dedicated team allows for quicker turnaround times and more responsive adjustments to your AR filter campaigns as needed.

The Agency Advantage:

Partnering with a social AR agency like arfected offers a compelling alternative. We have a team of specialists who can hit the ground running, saving you valuable time and resources in building your own team. Our expertise spans AR development across various platforms, ensuring your filter delivers a flawless experience on Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok.

Perhaps the most significant benefit of partnering with an agency is the co-creation process we champion. We work collaboratively with you and your chosen creative agency (if applicable) to develop AR filters that not only resonate with your target audience but also achieve your brand objectives.

The Power of Co-Creation

At arfected, we believe the best AR filters are born from collaboration.  Here's how a co-creation process can unlock the full potential of your AR filter campaign:

  • Your Brand's Vision: You possess the deepest understanding of your audience and brand identity. We translate this knowledge into captivating AR experiences that embody your brand's unique voice.
  • Creative Spark: A creative agency or in-house creative team can bring fresh storytelling ideas to the table, injecting a unique twist into your AR filter.
  • Our Technical Expertise: We bridge the gap between creative concepts and technical execution, ensuring a flawless and impactful AR filter experience.

Choosing the Right Path

The best approach – in-house or agency – depends on your specific needs and resources. Consider these factors:

  • Internal Expertise: Do you have the necessary development skills and platform knowledge within your team?
  • Project Scope: Are you looking for a one-off filter or a long-term AR strategy?
  • Strategic Focus: Do you have the resources to develop a clear strategy around your AR filter campaign?