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Webcasting takes a standard media signal (i.e. audio from a phone line or video from a camera) and converts it in a process called “encoding.” This is completed in a language your computer understands such as Windows Media, REAL Networks or FLASH. Once encoded, the message is distributed on a global server infrastructure ensuring that when you click on the webcast URL to view the event, you are able to see and hear the webcast every time.
The terms are used interchangeably but there is a small difference:
Streaming is the route technology behind webcasting that allows us to send audio or video signals online for live and archive events.
Webcasting incorporates interactive features wrapped around the streaming media content that takes the raw media and turns it into a corporate presentation.
If streaming or media hosting is what you require click here to see more about SN’s hosting service offerings.
Webconferencing is a software based application that is intended for “many to many” communications or collaboration. Webconferencing can be used on demand and is completely self serve – you control all facets of the communication from your desktop.
Webcasting is a “one to many” communication tool with a presenter(s) broadcasting a message out to viewers. Although based in software, the webcast differs greatly from webconferencing applications. Event webcast is customized in feature set and appearance to meet your business objective.
SN Connect Webconferencing can be used for smaller demonstrations and collaborative sessions.
With the growing YouTube generation, the pressure is on to use online video in the corporate communications strategy. Webcasting will allow you to leverage full motion produced video content but it is important that it is used effectively. Through the SN Consultation process, questions will be asked to determine which media format best meets your needs. Video is generally recommended when:
It is important that when you make the move to video, everyone is on board especially the speaker(s)!
The words are used interchangeably. However, “bandwidth” technically means the size and capacity of your internet connection (dial-up, high-speed, or cable). “Bit-rate” refers to the speed with which data (bits) can pass through the connection (bandwidth). The choices for webcasting are generally 56k, 150k or 300k. Note that “k” means kilobytes of data per second.
The more notice and planning you can invest in the event, the better the end result. As a general rule, webcast pages should be built and email invitations should be sent out no later than 2 weeks before the event.
Streaming format (audio or video)
Signal acquisition i.e. Telephone lines versus satellite
Advanced features selected
Customization of interface
Professional services required
Attendance is the first item generally measured to determine the success of an event This is easily done through the webcast reporting system as it will give you ‘up to the minute’ reporting on who registered and attended the event in the live or archived format.
Prior to holding the event, we recommend making a plan to determine what would make this event a success. Knowing this in advance will dictate the features to be used and allow you to pull reports to track these specific items. This effective planning will verify the success of the event.
The vast majority of late-model computers come equipped with everything you need: Pentium processor, a sound card and a Player program (see above question) downloaded free from the internet.