How Do I Deliver Multiple Versions of a Video Efficiently?

Jun 25

When a client asks for three versions of a spot—short, long, maybe one for social—our job isn’t just to say yes. Our job is to deliver well: on time, in flow, and without breaking the creative pipeline.

Here’s how to approach multi-version delivery without spiraling into chaos, missing files, or burning out your post team.

**1. Get Clarity Before the Edit Starts**

It sounds obvious, but a lot of inefficiency comes from unclear expectations. Ask:

What platforms are these for?
Do they want a :60, :30, and a :15? Or versions tailored for TikTok, broadcast, or YouTube?
Do they want the same message across all versions—or slightly adjusted tone and pacing?

Don’t wait until the end to find out the “extra” cuts have totally different goals. Lock that down before you open the timeline.

2. Build the Timeline to Flex

A smart post pipeline starts in pre.

Set up your project with modular storytelling in mind:

Use clearly labeled markers (for sections or lines you might cut)
Keep your assets organized in bins by format (social overlays, widescreen titles, vertical crops, etc.)
Edit your longest version first—then cut down using that base to create your shorter versions.

You're not reinventing the wheel with every deliverable. You're repurposing momentum.

3. Version Naming Shouldn’t Be Guesswork

Set a naming structure everyone sticks to. Something like:

PROJECTNAME_CLIENT_VERSION_LENGTH_DATE_v01
Example: DaystarPrayerline_BroadcastCut_60s_0625_v03

This avoids that “final_final_v7_EDITED_v2_REDO” chaos—and keeps communication with your team clean.

4. Export with Intentionality, Not Haste

Don’t rush your exports just to get them out the door. Make a checklist:

Are the frame rates correct for each platform?
Are color grades baked in or separate?
Are captions needed for social?
Are sound mixes optimized for each platform (broadcast vs. mobile)?

One mistake multiplies across every version. Check once, export right.

5. Deliver Professionally (Not Just Quickly)

Use delivery tools that let the client feel taken care of. We like:

Frame.io for versioning and feedback
Google Drive/Dropbox for archives
PDF one-pager to explain what each version is for (especially helpful for clients who aren’t video-savvy)

And always label your folders. A little digital housekeeping goes a long way in how people perceive your work.

Final Word

At Fragrant Film, we don’t just hit deadlines—we carry vision. That includes delivering work in a way that reflects intentionality, clarity, and peace.

Because when your workflow is tight, your team can breathe—and that freedom makes the whole project stronger.