New technology and new platforms can be confusing – understanding the terms will help.

Streaming

Streaming is a method of transmitting data and media content continuously over the internet or a communication network. The big players are Netflix, YouTube and Spotify, but even single producers and artists can deliver their pre-recorded video or music online today. 

Keep in mind Streaming content is viewed, not stored on your device.

Live Streaming

Live streaming is when the content being streamed is not pre-recorded, but is captured and delivered live as it is happening.  Anyone can now live stream with their phone to internet platforms like Facebook and Youtube.  Some folks can live stream from their computer and add other media content to their stream which can again be viewed on platforms like Facebook.  For events bigger than you can cover with your phone, or programs that are beyond what you produce from your laptop on your desk, a professional effort is required using multiple cameras, live mixing, real time recording and of course pro-level streaming technology and experience.

Webcasts

When you think of Webcasting think of traditional TV broadcasting, they are very similar but with a few differences.  Like TV, Webcasting can deliver live action (e.g. Monday Night Football), or pre-recorded content (e.g. your favorite sitcom or drama), or both (e.g. the evening news).  That’s where the similarities end.  Webcasting has some great advantages over traditional broadcasting.  Webcasts are affordable, have no barriers blocking access and distribution and they allow you to produce whatever program you want to produce.

Video-On-Demand

Video On Demand (VOD) is a video content distribution system that allows producers a way to deliver their video content to users.  Under the Video On Demand system producers can choose to sell users their video content (Purchase), watch their content for a specified period of time (Rent) or pay only what they watch, when they watch it (Pay Per View, PPV).

We can help you monetize your event, conference and program content after the event is over via whichever retailing model you prefer.  We do so by recording your Live Stream or Webcast and then we setup a VOD platform populated with your content and available to your attendees, remote viewers and anyone else you want to sell to.  Most of our clients make more money from their VOD sales than we charge for our services.  Additionally they are providing an Added Value to their constitutions.  Plus, they are creating an archive of valuable content that can be used in other ways for other purposes like marketing and future promotions.  I’ve lost count but I think that makes partnering with us for your Live Stream/Webcast needs a Win-Win-Win-Win-Win!

Video Conferencing

At it’s root Video Conferencing is two or more people communicating with video and audio.

The simplest form of video conferencing is Apple’s Facetime. The next step up is for two or more people to use Zoom or Skype.  Video conferencing is informal by nature.  It is always live, in real-time, and is best for small groups since communication between more than two people over this technology can get chaotic.