Video Streaming: Three Methods - One Choice
If you’ve visited websites with video streaming you will likely find there are three separate means of accessing the video presentation. These three methods rely on separate technologies to accomplish a similar goal, but each method has a slightly different effect on your prospect.
1) Progressive Download
This method provides a combination of methods to present your video stream. It downloads the video file, but can begin to play the video before it is fully downloaded. This method cannot be considered a true stream in that a true stream does not require a download to your hard drive – even if that download is to a temporary internet file. The end user is generally satisfied with the viewing speed.
2) Download
This method is the least expensive method, but requires the end user to completely download a video file to their hard drive. Once it is downloaded they can view it and may have less difficulty in viewing the material repeatedly. However, many consumers lack the patience needed to wait for a download, especially if the video presentation is lengthy.
3) Streaming
In this scenario the end user may be able to watch your video almost as soon as they click the ‘download’ button. Depending on the speed of the computer in use the consumer may see very few interruptions in presentation. This is the most expensive form of video streaming simply because there is ‘no waiting’. Consumers are generally most satisfied with this option.
As consumers become pulled in numerous directions simply because of the hectic pace of life the thought of having to wait for a download may move them away from a video presentation – no matter how good the end result might be.
Many netrepreneurs may gravitate towards providing a Progressive Download because the cost is reduced while the viewing speed is enhanced.
You will need to add marketing funds to cover the cost of any stream. Some estimates are roughly fifty cents a stream download. Essentially this means you need to provide material worth downloading and has the potential to assist you in reaching your marketing objectives.
There are sites where you can upload a video or audio presentation and it is downloadable at no cost to visitors. There are often provisions that likely include directing your visitor off site, placing ads on the site page where the video download can be viewed and last but not least a provision to have the video removed if there is no activity within a certain number of days. This option may be worth investigating, but you have to carefully examine whether is matches your marketing goals or weakens them.
Scott Lindsay
www.highpowersites.com
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