Streaming video on your website can seem daunting at first
, but once you start to get the hang of it you will quickly realise that the process can be sped up if you have the right tools.
Unlike early methods of internet video, streaming means that the whole video file doesn't have to be downloaded before it starts playing. This means that you can start watching almost instantly. The most popular video file format today for streaming is flv (flash video).
There are a number of ways to stream video on your website. Some of the most common methods include:
Embedding the video with html. The browser will use the default player for the file type.
Stream the video with flash using a generic video player (eg. Adobe Flash).
Stream the video with flash in your own customisable video player.
This last option provides the most flexibility in that you have full control of the appearance of the player. You could change the appearance and positions of the buttons, the colours and fonts used. The only problem is that these players are difficult to create and usually, the only free ones are not customisable.
With the tutorial above, all that is required is to place your flv file in the same folder as the flash files. You can then use it instantly. However, you will probably need to use a flash editor to modify the dimensions of the player. Thankfully, you can move everything in design view and the coding doesn't need to be touched.