Synchronization: Bandwidth, Bitrates, and Resolution
Content today is streamed for multiple users by way of varying sources, including TV, mobile, tablet, computers, and streaming media devices. Synchronizing video and interactive elements across all devices, operating systems, internet connections, and viewer locations presents numerous challenges. The increase in the number and types of devices consumers watch has made internet video more accessible while simultaneously changing the conditions under which successful companies distribute video. These new content demands affect video delivery in the following ways: • Storage : Modern video files are larger than in the past but still require the ability to be accessed rapidly. • Encoding/Transcoding : The diversity of video viewing devices used increases the amount of file conversion processes that must be done. Interactive livestreams present situations where viewers can influence, choose, or contribute to the content that is presented. For example, a webinar could allow participants to ask questions, or a Twitch broadcast could give viewers the ability to guide and chat with the player. Livestream audiences can ask questions, chat with other viewers, and answer polls. Opportunities for Interactivity Within Live Programming • Compression : Higher video demand means more data exchanged over mobile and broadband networks. Techniques such as adaptive bitrate streaming dynamically adjust file compression levels to deliver video resolution that matches bandwidth availability.
Incorporating interactive elements into video as well as executing successful live broadcasts often requires different software.
There are feature-rich platforms that provide interactive functions such as live polling and chat-based services in addition to video editing, real-time analytics, adaptive bitrate, and security capabilities. These end-to-end solutions can support large live broadcast audiences in conjunction with the features necessary to deliver highly engaging video.
Moving to a Lean-In Experience
A “lean back” experience is where the viewer is not directly engaged in content; they take a more passive role. This contrasts with a “lean-in” experience where viewers not only choose what to watch but how to watch it. On-demand television is now mainstream. Audiences enjoy the power of choice when watching video. Interactive video content offers a new opportunity for monetization and consumer satisfaction – consumers can choose to engage or not, and this mix of autonomy and personalization can provide a serious boost to viewer satisfaction.
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