Buying Guide: Choosing a Video Platform

The choice of a video platform depends on several criteria based on the specific needs of the company. Here are the main factors to consider.

We won’t lie – this guide was generated by AI to provide an unbiased answer, reflecting the information available online. We can confirm it’s relevant – with a disclaimer explained at the end – and assure you we haven’t changed a word.

Choosing a video platform for a company depends on various factors based on the company’s specific needs. Here are the main factors to consider:

Available Features

Live Streaming: If the company organizes events or webinars, the platform should support live streaming capabilities.
On-Demand Video Hosting: To store and distribute videos anytime.
Monetization: If the company wants to sell videos, the platform should offer monetization tools (subscriptions, pay-per-view, ads).
Analytics and Reporting: Analytics tools are essential for tracking video performance (views, engagement, conversion rates).
Security: Access control features like encryption and password protection are essential for some companies (e.g., for internal training).

Ease of Integration

Compatibility with Existing Tools: The platform should easily integrate with the company’s existing tools, such as CMS (Content Management System), CRM (Customer Relationship Management), or marketing automation systems.
API and Customization: If there are specific needs, it’s important for the platform to offer APIs to customize and integrate videos into workflows or third-party applications.

User Experience

Intuitive Interface: The platform should be easy to use for both content creators and viewers.
Playback Quality: The platform should ensure optimal video quality across different devices and networks (bandwidth management, HD, 4K, etc.).
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Videos should be viewable on computers, tablets, smartphones, and even connected TVs.

Cost

Subscription or Pay-Per-Use Model: The pricing model should match the company’s budget. Some platforms charge per video or storage volume, while others have more flexible plans.
Hidden Costs: Check for additional fees for certain features (e.g., live streaming or monetization options).

Scalability

Ability to Handle High Volumes: If the company expects substantial growth in the number of videos or viewers, the platform must be able to scale without compromising service quality.
Storage Capabilities: The platform should offer sufficient storage space with the ability to expand if needed.

Security and Privacy

Data Protection: The platform should comply with applicable regulations, such as GDPR in Europe, and ensure user data security.
Access Control: Options like geo-blocking, digital rights management (DRM), and identifier restrictions are important for protecting content.

Technical Support and Customer Service

Responsiveness: A company may need responsive customer support for technical issues. Check availability (24/7) and support channels (phone, email, chat).
Documentation and Tutorials: A well-documented platform with guides and tutorials helps reduce the learning curve for users.

Reputation and Reliability

Testimonials and Case Studies: Consulting reviews from other companies using the platform can help assess reliability and client satisfaction.
Server Reliability: A video platform with a robust infrastructure, like using a CDN (Content Delivery Network), ensures fast load times and smooth global streaming.

Brand Customization

Branding: The ability to customize the video interface with the company’s logo, colors, and styles is often crucial for brand consistency.
No Third-Party Ads: Some companies prefer an ad-free experience to avoid distracting their audience.

Interactivity and Engagement

Interactive Features: Some platforms allow you to add polls, live Q&As, or calls to action (CTAs) to increase viewer engagement.
Real-Time Comments and Interactions: Essential for webinars or online training.

Our Analysis: Overlooked Criteria

It goes without saying that Streamlike meets all of the above criteria, according to which a company can choose a video platform suited to its needs, whether for training, marketing, events, or internal communication.

The criteria the AI didn’t mention – and it’s a sign they’re too rarely demanded – are eco-responsibility and the platform’s nationality. A company or public organization that has made social and environmental responsibility (CSR) commitments could require these from its suppliers.