What is Webcasting – Joining the media revolution

Author: Richard Belcher

Author: Richard Belcher

What is Webcasting?

Webcasting derived from broadcasting and is defined as the transmission of audio and or video across the web. Essentially, it is a way of delivering audio and video across the internet. The BBCs i-player, Channel 4 and Sky have helped deliver webcasting to mainstream audiences and more and more businesses are joining the webcasting revolution to broadcast or archive key events, deliver messages to clients (and potential clients), describe products and services or simply to generate interest in their company. As anyone connected to the internet can view a webcast, webcasting allows businesses to reach a GLOBAL audience in real-time without expensive travel costs, accommodation bills and time out of the office. Webcasting is any type of broadcasting (audio or video) that uses internet technology to reach the end user. How does it work?

Webcasts are video, audio or both streamed across the internet so that viewers can connect to the stream through their internet connection. The footage is captured to a computer and then encoded to a suitable web format (this is typically Windows Media, Flash Video or QuickTime). Once converted it is sent out via a stream (or uploaded to a server for on-demand viewing) which users retrieve as they connect- either via a link or a player embedded in a webpage. What do I need to watch a webcast?

This depends on how the webcast has been set-up but essentially you will need- A computer that is connected to the internet (ideally via broadband) A web browser with the chosen media player installed Speakers or headphones A link to the webcast or page hosting the webcast. How can I produce a webcast?

Whilst a quick Google search will bring up a number of guides to webcasting, it is still a specialist technology, particularly if you are looking to webcast a live session or event. It is therefore recommended that you seek professional advice however, the basic tools you would need are- A multimedia laptop A broadband connection (as fast as possible but minimum 1 megabyte) A streaming server A video capture device A digital capture card Encoder software A link on your website or a video player embedded in a webpage. Top Tips

We have been providing webcasting and online video services for a number of years now so have experienced most of the problems and successes that can arise. From this experience, my Five Top Tips to Webcasting and things to consider if you try this yourself are: Production Values. Ensure that your webcast is an advertisement to your services and not detrimental; poor lighting, sound and amateurish camera work will quickly draw potential clients AWAY from your services. Consider writing a script and using an auto-cue to ensure consistency. Consider your message carefully. Always bear in mind what you are trying to achieve. The excitement can quickly steer you off track so be aware of your audience and what you are trying to tell them. Make your video search engine friendly. Google and most search engines now rank video higher than images so ensure you title your video and label it with meta tags. Also, consider a link at the end of the video or a watermark bearing your logo throughout. Statistically, users that watch are very likely to click the link or visit your site if they know where to go. Duration. Watching video on a computer is very different to being sat in front of a television. Try to limit your webcasts to between 30 seconds and 8 minutes (even less if you are just using audio). Peoples attention span is much lower on the web so ensure you keep them entertained. If you are filming a live event or presentation that lasts longer than this, consider dividing the session into smaller chunks or editing highlights that portray the essence of the longer video. Contact First Sight Media. We pride ourselves on both our excellent knowledge of our industry but also our relationships with our customers. Even if you are considering producing the webcast yourself, we will happily offer advice or a quotation with no obligation. About the Author:

Richard Belcher is Technical Director at First Sight Media and is particularly interested in the development of interactivity and web based video. His expertise in webcasting, video production and interactive media along with his interpersonal skills make him ideal for this position; working closely with clients looking to produce their first webcasts or directing large events and conferences for live broadcast via the web.

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