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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.
Essentially you would create a live presentation for customers or affiliates that could be downloaded at a certain time so there would be a larger number of individuals logged into the video stream at the same time. You could set this up as a member only video webinar or make it available by invitation only with password-protected acceptance to the conference.
A chat room can be set up to take questions from those watching the webinar. This can provide a connection that may not be practical if you had to rely on more sophisticated video conferencing. If you do choose to use this approach you may want to save the presentation as a podcast that could be used at a later date for either new clients or new affiliates.
The development of quality webinars can provide a significant draw to your website. Most individuals are looking at furthering their education in fields that hold personal or professional interest. If you can provide a fee-based or members-only webinar you are likely to see increased traffic to your site and an increased potential for list building opportunities.
There are so many tools available to netrepreneurs, yet is seems the advances in technology may be frightening to those who may understand business, but are intimidated by the technical aspect of moving their experience to the worldwide web.
Freelance video, audio and content professionals can aid you in the development and execution of quality video streaming for your website.
The use of video streaming can provide a sense of professionalism that may be lacking in other online presentations.
The addition of audio provides a great personal connection to your customers, but the addition of video streaming ads an element to the process that shouldn't be minimized. Most people want to know whom they are dealing with and if they can see and hear you they may feel better capable of assigning a level of trust with you and your online business.
With the growth of computer hard drive space and processing speeds video is becoming a highly desired standard for online presentations. The costs associated with video streaming may be less than you imagine. Maybe it's time to investigate the possibilities.