FAQs

Q: There is reference to "Exhibit A" but I don't see it included in the agreement. (Referring to Section 2.1 of the Publishing Agreement)

A: Exhibit A is referring to the Statement of Work (SOW) contract. The Publishing Agreement covers the broader terms of our partnership while the SOW covers the terms that are specific to the actual course.

Q: What is the likelihood that the course will not be accepted? (Referring to Section 2.2 of the Publishing Agreement)

A: We haven’t had any courses rejected so far, and you’ll have close guidance from your Producer throughout the process to ensure everything meets the necessary standards. Your Producer will work with you to refine the content and provide direction to help you feel confident in what we’re creating together. If any major issues arise—such as audio or lighting problems, significant background distractions, or anything that can’t be fixed in post-production—we’ll notify you as soon as possible and request any necessary retakes. That said, your Producer will help you prepare ahead of time to proactively address any potential concerns before filming, ensuring a smooth production process.

Q: Confirming that "look and feel" is not in reference to the content or the ideas shared? (Referring to Section 4.4 of the Publishing Agreement) 

A: Correct! You’re free to continue creating similar content with overlapping ideas. You retain full ownership of all your pre-existing IP, thoughts, and ideas that go into the course. Madecraft owns the final edited product, which is what we edit and distribute to vendors. Essentially, you’re granting Madecraft a license to use your IP within the course we create together, but you’re free to use your IP however you’d like outside of this specific course. The "look and feel" restriction applies only to elements like length, content flow, style of presentation, and graphics—so as long as another online course you create isn’t substantially identical in format and execution, you’re in the clear!

Q: In which ways the content will be used since I will not have any control at all over distribution?  

A: We'll be distributing your course to our content partners, and then they'll review the content to decide if they'd like to publish it on their platforms. Publication is never guaranteed, though we’ll be pitching this content to multiple partners. Some of our partners include LinkedIn Learning, Cornerstone OnDemand, OpenSesame, and Pluralsight. 

Q: Can the agreement only be terminated by Madecraft? (Referring to Section 5.1 of the Publishing Agreement)

A: This depends on what phase we’re at in the course development process. If the videos have already been recorded and submitted to our team, then yes, the agreement can only be terminated by Madecraft since our team will have already added them to the queue for post-production and delivery to our partners. However, if we’re in the earlier phases where the videos have not yet been submitted, then the author can terminate the contract.  

Q: Does Madecraft have exclusive rights to the content? Can I use the same content on my own under my own brand? 

A: You retain full ownership of your pre-existing IP, thoughts, and ideas that go into the course. Madecraft owns only the finished, fully edited course that we produce and distribute to vendors. Essentially, you grant Madecraft a license to use your IP within this course, but you’re free to use that IP however you’d like outside of it. The exclusivity outlined in Section 4.4 of the Publishing and Acquisition Agreement applies only to recreating and distributing a substantially similar course that would directly compete with the one we produce together. As long as another course you create isn’t nearly identical in length, content flow, style of presentation, or graphics, you’re free to continue leveraging your content however you see fit.This clause isn’t meant to limit your ability to teach, create, or share your expertise—it’s simply in place to protect the unique course we develop together, especially considering the investment we make in post-production and our distribution partnerships.

Q: Why is the compensation structured as a total compensation versus a rate per video?

A: We updated the compensation model for this project to provide greater flexibility as creators collaborate with producers. During production, creators may choose to add or remove videos as their content evolves. By structuring compensation as a total project rate rather than a per-video rate, creators can make adjustments without the need to reissue or resign contracts, streamlining the process. 

Q: Are there royalties provided or does this refer to having access to the Madecraft company report? (Referring to “royalty reports” in section 3.1 of the Publishing Agreement)

A: This is actually an outdated component left over from a few years ago when Madecraft contracted courses under a royalty model. We won’t be sharing any performance data on these courses due to the agreements we have in place with our partners. Some of our partners do have platforms that may have publicly available insights authors can retrieve regarding course performance though.

Q: Pre-existing materials: Will you please clarify examples? (Referring to Section 4.2 of the Publishing Agreement)
A: Pre-existing materials could include books, workshops, classes, courses, frameworks, and any other materials that you've created prior to building this content with us. 

Q: Creating any derivatives of the work I assume simply means creating work in the same topic after the fact. As for re-purposing/editing the work, I would like to be assured that any editing/repurposing would fall under the structure of the Madecraft business model of coursework for the life of the usage. (Referring to Section 4.3 of the Publishing Agreement) 

A: Derivative works are any adaptations of the material, translations, audio versions, cut down / re-edited, etc.  

Q: Can I submit a script for feedback before recording?
A: We ask all our content be unscripted, but a content draft and bullet points are encouraged. Our content managers are happy to review and offer suggestions to help you craft your message clearly and effectively.

Q: What is the audience for these types of videos?
A: The audience consists of business professionals looking for actionable insights, inspiration, and expert advice on a wide range of business topics.

Q: Are there specific words or jargon I should avoid using?
A: We recommend avoiding overly technical jargon unless necessary for the topic. Keep language clear and accessible to a broad audience.

Q: Should my video follow a specific structure (e.g., introduction, main content, conclusion)?
A: Yes, a simple structure is recommended: start with an introduction, dive into the main content, and conclude with key takeaways. You can also offer a creative approach, like a skit, a response to a trend, founder stories, product demos, etc.

Q: Can I include a personal story or anecdote in my video?
A: Absolutely! Personal stories help connect with your audience and make the content more engaging.

Q: Why do I need to submit a rehearsal video?
A: The rehearsal video is to ensure that tech, lighting, audio, and other visuals are prepared for recording. Instead of submitting several videos with potential issues, the rehearsal videos allow for a quality check before you spend time creating several videos.

Q: Do I need professional equipment?
A: No, but good lighting, clear audio, and a microphone are preferred for quality content. A modern smartphone camera is sufficient if properly set up.
If you would like to check your audio, we recommend this site: https://podcast.adobe.com/en/miccheck

Q: What type of background should I use when recording?
A: Choose a clean, uncluttered background that doesn’t distract from you. A simple, well-lit space works best.

Q: Can I include visuals, props, or on-screen text in my video?
A: Yes, visuals, props, or text can enhance your message, but make sure they don't overwhelm the viewer.

Q: Should I edit my video before submitting, or should it be raw footage?
A: If you wish to edit your own videos, we will accept a submission of edited footage. This will allow your creative touch to be present in the video. However, we ask you to submit the raw footage in addition.

Q: Can I record my video with a virtual background?
A: Virtual backgrounds can be used, but we recommend natural, real-world backgrounds for a more authentic feel.

Q: Should I look directly at the camera or slightly off to the side?
A: Look directly at the camera to create a connection with your audience. If using the front-facing camera, keep your eye line on the top third of your screen.

Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while recording?
A: Simply pause, reset, and keep going. You can always edit out mistakes or reshoot the section. There’s no need to start a new video if you make a simple mistake. 

Q: Can I include music or sound effects in my video?
A: We recommend no music or sound effects minimal to avoid overpowering your voice. If you have ideas for extra audio, please let your content manager know.

Q: What file formats and video resolution should I submit?
A: We can only accept .mp4 and .MOV files. All videos should be recorded in 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) or 1080p, with 4K preferred.

Q: How should I name my video files before submission?
A: Name your files clearly with the video number and name, e.g., Lesson 1_Leadership_Insights.mp4

Q: How long do I have to film videos - is there a strict deadline?
A: Deadlines will be provided by your content manager, but we encourage timely submissions to keep production on track.

Q: Will Madecraft ask an author to refilm videos if they are unsatisfied with the submission?
A: Yes, if the video doesn’t meet quality standards, we may ask for a re-recording. Your content manager will provide feedback to help you improve.

Q: Will I receive feedback on my videos?
A: Yes, you’ll receive feedback from your content manager to ensure your videos meet our guidelines.

Q: How long does the video review and approval process take?
A: Videos are reviewed within 24-48 hours of submission depending on time zones.  

Q: Can I post the videos I create on my own social media or website?
A: You can share links to your content but can’t directly upload the videos without approval.

Q: How long does Madecraft retain rights to the videos?
A: Madecraft retains the rights to the videos indefinitely.

Q: Will my name be credited on Madecraft’s platform or in the video?
A: Yes, when we post your video we will credit you by mentioning your name and tagging you if you have an account on the platform.

Q: When and how will I receive payment for my videos?
A: After you record and your videos are approved, payment is typically transferred to your account within 14–30 business days.

Q: Do I need to send an invoice, or is payment automated?
A: No invoice is needed. Our team manages all author payments internally. Payments are processed through Tipalti, our payment system.

Q: Who should I contact about any payment issues
A: Please contact your content manager, who will work with our finance team to resolve any issues you may have.

Q: Is payment per video, per batch, or per project?
A: Payment is per SOW that you receive.

Q: Are there bonuses or incentives for submitting more content?
A: At this time there is not. However, if you're interested in creating more content, feel free to reach out to your content manager. We do have a referral program, in which authors can receive swag and cash for referrals.