The popularity of VOD platforms has blown up in recent years. Did you know that video streaming has become more popular than cable or broadcast. And that’s backed by numbers – over 36% of total TV usage is completely from streaming!
Moreover, about 3.4 billion people will be using VOD services by 2027.
Isn’t that some superb potential you’d love to tap into?
But what if we tell you that not all video on demand platforms are created the same? Each one has its unique strengths, and you need to find the one that fits your needs.
Wondering how to do that?
This blog will help you make the right choice by discussing key features you should look out for in a VOD platform.
How Does Video on Demand Operate?
So, what is VOD? VOD enables creators and companies to host video content for viewers at their convenience instead of a set broadcast time slot.
It works with a VOD streaming software, which allows you to store your video files in a central server for sharing or monetizing with viewers.
It’s even pocket friendly for your users. By using a video on demand solution, they can explore a wide range of videos in a payment pack that suits them – subscriptions, rentals, or individual purchases. Isn’t that convenient?
Plus, they can watch or save your video content whenever and wherever they prefer. This makes them remember you for longer!
Behind the scenes, video on demand services operate using OTT technology, which uses protocols to compress and decompress video files. Because of this, they can be transmitted across the internet easily.
7 VOD Platform Features to Look Out for
All VOD software solutions have their own set of features, but here are a few important ones to consider. Let’s explore these below:
1. Video CMS
Video CMS or video content management system is the backbone of any VOD platform. It helps you upload, organize, and categorize video content, and lets you add metadata for videos, including titles, descriptions, genres, and tags.
This also makes it easy for viewers to find relevant content.
2. Encoding and Transcoding
To deliver the best viewing experience, the video file quality and size must be adjusted according to the viewing method. That’s where VOD encoding and transcoding come into play.
With the right encoder and transcoder settings, you can automatically adjust the video quality for various devices as per their capabilities and bitrate. This delivers a high quality streaming experience on your VOD software without manual conversion.
3. Video Monetization
To earn money through videos, look for vod platforms that feature different monetization options. Here are some types that you may come across:
- Subscription Video On Demand (SVOD): Requires viewers to pay monthly for unlimited access, guaranteeing you periodic income.
- Transactional Video On Demand (TVOD): Charges users for individual content pieces.
- Advertising Based Video on Demand (AVOD): Here, videos are free, but they come with ads.
4. Video Player
Find a VOD streaming platform with a white label solution that lets you customize the viewing experience to your brand.
You can easily replace third party branding on your video player by adding your own logo and custom branding. White label VOD platform providers also allow you to insert the video player on your website and share it on your social channels.
5. Video Security
Now, you need to ensure that your VOD platform offers secure streaming services. Look for HTTPS and SSL encryption to prevent malware attacks and ensure top grade protection.
You must also check geographical and domain restrictions to control where your content can be played.
Finally, your VOD solution should employ strong DRM mechanisms like data encryption and strong user authentication techniques to prevent unauthorized access and maintain confidentiality.
6. Video Analytics
Wouldn’t you like to know whether your audience likes or dislikes your videos?
To measure the performance of your content, your video on demand platform providers must offer insights into user behavior, viewing patterns, engagement, and revenue.
These insights will help you figure out what kind of content your audience really enjoys. And ultimately, that’s what’s going to keep them coming back!
7. Custom CDN
Video platforms mostly use a CDN (content delivery network) to distribute content to viewers worldwide. But what is a custom CDN?
Unlike regular CDNs, a custom CDN is tailored specifically to meet the unique needs of your platform. This means faster streaming, lower buffering times, and better scalability based on your audience’s location and bandwidth.
4 Key Benefits of Investing in the Right VOD Platform
If you’re thinking about what you will get by picking the right video on demand platform, here are the top 4 benefits it brings to the table.
Better Reach
A VOD streaming solution allows you to make your content accessible to a global audience, no matter where they are or what time zone they’re in. You can deliver your content without any restrictions.
Cost Effective
Distributing your content digitally through a VOD platform significantly reduces costs. With CDN networks and OTT technology, you can bypass the need for physical media and broadcasting equipment.
No need to invest in expensive gear or build a complicated infrastructure to get your videos out there.
Greater Control
The right VOD streaming service allows you to produce and publish content whenever you want.
All you need is a concept in mind, a stable internet connection and a camera for recording your videos in advance. Then you can release as per your convenience, rather than being tied to a live broadcasting schedule.
Device Flexibility
Your audience is going to watch your videos on different devices. A VOD solution ensures high quality viewing with low latency and zero buffers on multiple devices.
Whether your audience is watching on a laptop, PC, mobile, or tablet, VOD platform providers offer multi device compatibility.
Final Thoughts
With a video on demand solution, you can easily reach a global audience and create personalized viewing experiences. It gives you more control over how you distribute content, so you can publish videos without worrying about specific broadcast times.
Your viewers can watch whenever they want, on any device, which boosts both engagement and satisfaction.
But choosing the right video on demand platform is key to your success. To make the best decision, we recommend that you pick the one with a variety of features and flexibility. Also, don’t forget about simple monetization options and a user friendly interface
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