Streaming media refers to a type of media content delivery that allows users to access real-time, continuous media such as video or audio. Instead of users downloading the content, it is played online from a specific source and watched or heard in real-time. Streaming media technology was developed in the late nineties and has since become widely used for providing on-demand audio and video for a variety of content.
While streaming technology is used across almost all media platforms, there are six main types of streaming technology: internet radio, live webcasts, on-demand media, video on demand, podcasting, and peer-to-peer file sharing. Below is a more detailed breakdown of each streaming technology.
Internet Radio
Internet radio is a form of streaming media where radio content is streamed over the Internet rather than broadcast by traditional radio stations. It is relatively easy to setup an internet radio station because all that's required is a computer with a media player, a decent internet connection and the radio content.
Live Webcasts
A live webcast is a broadcast that is streamed to viewers over the web in real-time, rather than on traditional television or radio. Live webcasts are usually audio or video recordings of events, lectures or speeches that are streamed in real-time to viewers.
On-Demand Media
On-demand media is another form of streaming media that enables users to request specific content when they want it instead of having a set schedule for viewing. It is common for services such as Netflix, Hulu and YouTube to offer on-demand content.
Video on Demand
Video on demand (VOD) is a streaming media service that enables viewers to choose videos to watch after they've been downloaded. It is common for video streaming websites such as YouTube, Vimeo, and Amazon Prime to offer VOD services.
Podcasting
Podcasting is a type of streaming media where users can listen to audio content on demand. Podcasts are usually audio recordings that can be streamed on-demand, and listeners can subscribe to specific podcast channels to receive updates of new content as it's released.
Become a Sales & Marketing Rainmaker
Learn valuable skills to win more customers, grow your business, and increase your profits.
Peer-to-Peer File Sharing
Peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing is a type of streaming technology where files are shared directly between two users, usually via a dedicated program or application. It is commonly used for sharing large files such as audio, video or image files, as well as software and documents.
General Guidelines and Best Practices
When creating streaming media content, there are a few general guidelines and best practices that should be followed to ensure the content is of a high quality:
Choose the right platform: The platform you use to host your streaming media content should be carefully considered to maximize its reach. Popular streaming platforms include YouTube, Twitch, and Vimeo.
Optimise file size: Larger file sizes can take a long time to download and can result in frustration for viewers. Clearing out unused file data or compressing files to reduce their size will help improve the viewing experience.
Minimise background noise: Background noise such as buzzing, hissing and humming can be distracting for viewers and can damage the overall quality of the media. Minimising background noise is essential for creating a professional streaming media experience.
Use good audio: Audio is just as important as visual quality when streaming media content. When recording audio, it's important to use good equipment and to record in a quiet space. Audio should be clean and clear, without any crackles or distortion.
Provide captions: Captions are an important feature of streaming media content as they can be useful for viewers who don’t speak the language of the content. They are also useful for those with hearing impairments.
Check audio and video sync: It’s important that the audio and video are in sync. Video and audio files should be checked before sending to ensure that they’re in sync and that the quality is up to standard.
Test playback: It's important to test the playback of the content before sending it out to viewers. This will allow you to ensure that the content is of a high quality and that there are no audio or video issues.
These are some of the general guidelines and best practices when creating streaming media content. Following these guidelines and best practices will ensure that viewers have a great experience when watching or listening to the content.