Webcasting, also known as live video streaming, is when an event is broadcasted live over the Internet and can be viewed in real time by anyone with access. Similarly, webcasting lets viewers become active participants, so the size of your event doesn't need to be limited by venue capacity or geography. Finally, you can also save the recording in order to view and share it again later as a prerecorded presentation. All of these uses make webcasting an engaging and useful tool for anything from hosting big parties, corporate meetings, webinars, shows, and much more.
How Does Webcasting Work?
All webcasts, whether massive prerecorded events or small, live discussions, make use of the same five basic steps with comparatively minor variations.
1. Capture
The images and/or sound of the event are captured using the proper conferencing equipment. Whether you are using a single screen display or integrating a split screen with a PowerPoint presentation and live camera, having the necessary equipment is crucial.
2. Output
The output from the capturing equipment gets fed into a computer using a conferencing interface (via computer) and allows the broadcast to happen.
3. Encoding
The computer has a specific software on it that turns the input into a format that works with live streaming; this is usually a type of Windows Media format, but there are others that can be chosen.
4. Transmission
The encoded video/audio gets sent over the Internet to a streaming server. Some people have their own private server for this while others make use of public streaming services.
5. Broadcast
The stream gets picked up by the server and is broadcast in real time to anyone viewing it on the web site.
Although the process involved for live streaming events is relatively straightforward, there are levels of nuance on each step. The capabilities of your equipment, software, and Internet speed will affect the level of quality that the streamed webcast exhibits, and your server will affect how large an audience can be managed simultaneously.
Advantages to Webcasting
Live video streaming offers several benefits that can be used to enhance a wide variety of event types and create a more open and memorable experience.
Wider Audience
Every event will inevitably have people who want to attend, but can't. These can be friends or family members too far away to reach your wedding, fans of your company unable to reach a launch party, or employees who are too spread out to easily attend a general meeting or conference. Live streaming overcomes geographic limitations and allows people across the world experience an event together.
Convenience
The only requirement for viewing a webcast is an Internet connection and a link to the video. This allows viewers to access your event at home, at their office, or anywhere they feel comfortable. Presenters, instructors, or speakers are also not limited by location and can deliver from anywhere in the world. This benefit can be particularly valuable if getting to the event in person would incur distinct travel or lodging costs.
Enhanced Participation
Webcasts and live streams are not one-sided conversations. You can arrange for the active involvement of viewers in a huge number of ways. Keep an eye on social media conversations and incorporate live reactions into your event, let viewers engage speakers online in real time through Q&A sessions, or even hold votes.
Live Broadcast Your Events with bb Blanc
bb Blanc is a full-service, live-event company based in Toronto. We pride ourselves on "Creating Event Magic" through the use of the latest technology for audiovisual display and support. Our teams have all the know-how, software, and hardware needed to set up live streams or webcast recordings of any event from weddings to corporate presentations. This lets our clients create truly unique experiences that draw in and engage audiences regardless of physical distance. For more information on bb Blanc and the unique additions we can bring to your events and gatherings, feel free to contact us by phone at 416-360-0440 or by email at info@bbblanc.com.
