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What equipment is needed for live streaming?

Live streaming requires a combination of specialist hardware and software to capture, encode, and broadcast content in real-time. Here’s a comprehensive list of the equipment and tools generally needed for a successful live stream:

  1. Camera:
    • A high-quality camera is essential for capturing clear video. This could range from a professional-grade camera, a DSLR with appropriate lens, a camcorder, or even a high-end smartphone, depending on your budget and requirements.
  2. Microphone:
    • Good audio quality is crucial for keeping your audience engaged. Depending on the type of event, you might need handheld mics (for individual speakers or audience members asking questions) and podium mics (for directional, focused capture). Tie clip or lavaliere mics are generally unsuitable for events that have a PA system as they can result in feedback.
  3. Audio mixer (for larger or more complex setups):
    • If your stream involves multiple audio sources (like several microphones or background music), an audio mixer will allow you to control each audio source’s volume and quality independently. A mixer is essential if you have a PA system as you will need to separately control the volume in the room as well as create a ‘mix-minus’ to stop infinite audio loops.
  4. Encoder:
    • After capturing video and audio, you need an encoder to convert it into a format suitable for streaming over the internet. Encoders can be either software or hardware (dedicated devices that handle the encoding process).
  5. Reliable internet connection:
    • A stable and fast internet connection is critical. The faster the upload speed, the better the stream quality. Ideally, use a wired connection (Ethernet) instead of WiFi for more stability.
  6. Computer or streaming device:
    • A powerful computer or a dedicated streaming device is necessary to handle the encoding software and process the video and audio. The requirements can vary based on the quality of the stream and the software’s specifications.
  7. Tripods or stabilisation tools:
    • To ensure steady, professional-looking footage, you’ll need something to stabilize your camera, especially if it won’t be stationary.
  8. Lighting:
    • Proper lighting is crucial for improving video quality. Some high end cameras can work with natural lighting as the light source but it will depend on the environment you are working in.
  9. Streaming platform:
    • You’ll need to choose a platform to broadcast your livestream, such as YouTube Live, Facebook Live, or a private/enterprise streaming solution.
  10. Cables and connectivity accessories:
    • Depending on your setup, you might need various cables (SDI, HDMI, audio, USB, Ethernet), converters, or signal extenders. Always have spare cables on hand during a live event.
  11. Headphones:
    • To monitor audio quality during the live stream, a good pair of headphones is essential.
  12. Backup solutions:
    • Have backup equipment ready or a backup plan in place, such as secondary internet connectivity or an extra camera or microphone.

The specific needs for your live stream might vary depending on the complexity of the event, the number of participants, your audience size, and the streaming location. Always test your equipment and setup ahead of time to ensure a smooth, professional live stream experience.

Which platform is best for corporate live streaming?

Selecting the best platform for corporate live streaming depends on your specific needs, including the size of your audience, the type of content you plan to stream, your security requirements, budget, and what engagement features you need. Here are some popular platforms used for corporate live streaming, each with its own strengths:

  1. Zoom:
      • Known for its ease of use and reliability, Zoom is a popular choice for corporate events, webinars, and meetings. It allows for large numbers of participants, offers robust interaction features like polling and Q&A, and provides options for recording and transcription.

    Which platform is best for corporate live streaming?

  2. Microsoft Teams:
    • Integrated with Office 365, Microsoft Teams is a strong option for companies already embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem. It offers seamless integration with Microsoft products, strong security, and a user-friendly interface for webinars and virtual events.
  3. Webex:
    • Cisco’s Webex is a go-to solution for many enterprises due to its strong emphasis on security and scalability. It’s suitable for large-scale events and offers various interaction features, along with integration with various business applications.
  4. YouTube Live:
    • For companies looking to broadcast public-facing events without participant limits, YouTube Live is a viable option. It allows for streaming of high-quality video, and events can be either public or unlisted for privacy.
  5. Facebook Live:
    • If you’re aiming to reach a broader public audience or your company has a significant presence on Facebook, Facebook Live is a good choice. Keep in mind, it’s less formal and might not be suitable for confidential or internal events.
  6. Vimeo Livestream:
    • Vimeo Livestream is professional-grade live streaming that offers high-quality streaming services, security features including password protection and private streams, and audience engagement tools, but it comes with a cost.
  7. ON24:
    • Particularly popular for webinars and virtual events, ON24 focuses on engagement and conversion, providing features like virtual environments, interactive tools, and analytics to understand audience behavior.
  8. Intrado (formerly West):
    • Ideal for large enterprises and external-facing events, Intrado offers a comprehensive virtual event platform with various engagement tools, professional production services, and detailed analytics.
  9. Kaltura:
    • Known for its advanced video technology, Kaltura provides solutions for live and on-demand video streaming, with strong security features and integration with various corporate tools.
  10. Crowdcast:
    • Crowdcast is designed for interactive webinars, workshops, Q&As, and live courses, offering features like easy setup, HD streaming, real-time analytics, and unique participant engagement tools (polls, chat, Q&A, etc.). It’s known for its user-friendly interface and robust analytics.
  11. Hopin:
    • Hopin provides a virtual venue for live online events, offering features that aim to recreate the in-person event experience, including receptions, stages, networking areas, and vendor booths.

When selecting a platform, consider factors such as:

  • Security: Does the platform provide end-to-end encryption, password protection, and secure access controls?
  • Scalability: Can the platform accommodate the size of your audience?
  • Reliability: Does the platform have a history of uptime and solid performance?
  • Integration: Does it integrate with your existing tech stack (CRM, email marketing platform, etc.)?
  • Features: Does it have the features you need, like audience interaction, polling, Q&A, and analytics?
  • Budget: Does it fit within your company’s budget for such services?

It’s crucial to identify your specific live streaming goals and requirements before deciding on the platform that best suits your needs. Conducting a trial run or demo can also be beneficial in making the right choice.

How can we ensure the security of our live stream?

Ensuring the security of your corporate live stream is crucial, especially when sensitive information is being discussed. There are several measures you can take to bolster your live stream’s security:

  1. Use a secure platform:
    • Opt for a streaming platform known for its strong security measures. Platforms like Microsoft Teams, Webex, and Zoom offer end-to-end encryption and other security features specifically designed for corporate use.
  2. Enable end-to-end encryption:
    • If your chosen platform supports it, always use end-to-end encryption for your live stream. This ensures that the data transmitted (both video and audio) is encrypted from the sender to the receiver, preventing potential eavesdropping.
  3. Password protect your live stream:
    • Where applicable set a strong password for your event and share it securely with attendees. This prevents unauthorized users from joining.
  4. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN):
    • In some cases consider asking participants to use a VPN, especially if they are connecting from a public or unsecured internet connection. A VPN encrypts internet traffic, making it harder for outsiders to intercept data. Note that a VPN can slow down internet connections so it is not always a suitable option especially if the participant will be presenting.
  5. Restrict access:
    • Use features that limit live stream access to certain emails or domains, ensuring only invited participants can join. Platforms like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and others support such restrictions.
  6. Monitor attendees:
    • Keep a close eye on the participant list during the live stream, ensuring that each participant is supposed to be there. If you notice any unfamiliar names or email addresses, be prepared to remove them.
  7. Disable unnecessary features:
    • Turn off any features not needed for your live stream, like file sharing, to reduce the risk of sharing malicious files or sensitive information accidentally.
  8. Use a secure network:
    • Ensure that your live stream is conducted on a secure network, preferably a corporate network with advanced security measures. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks, as they are more vulnerable to attacks.
  9. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
    • If available, enable 2FA for your live stream. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring attendees to provide two separate pieces of verification before joining.
  10. Record the Session:
    • Though it may not prevent security breaches, recording the session helps in post-event audits to understand any security lapses or incidents that occurred during the live stream.
  11. Regularly update software:
    • Ensure that the streaming software and any other tools involved are up to date. Developers frequently release updates to address security vulnerabilities.
  12. Educate participants:
    • Inform all participants about best security practices, like not sharing links publicly or clicking on suspicious links, and provide guidelines on expected behavior during the live stream.
  13. Have a contingency plan:
    • Prepare for unexpected security issues. Have a tech team ready to address any threats that might arise during the live stream and a plan for what to do if a breach occurs.
  14. Legal compliance:
    • Make sure that your live stream complies with relevant data protection laws, such as the GDPR in Europe, which might have specific requirements for data security.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly enhance the security of your corporate live stream and protect both your information and your participants.

What are the best practices for engaging the audience during a live stream?

Engaging your audience during a live stream is crucial for the success of the event. It not only keeps the audience attentive but also enhances the overall experience, encouraging active participation and feedback. Here are best practices for keeping your audience engaged:

  1. Interactivity:
    • Use Q&A sessions: Allow your audience to ask questions during the live stream.
    • Conduct live polls or surveys: They can provide instant feedback and keep the audience involved.
    • Incorporate quizzes or trivia: These can make the experience more enjoyable and interactive.
  2. Use high-quality audio and video:
    • Ensure your audio is clear and free of background noise.
    • Use a high-quality camera and proper lighting to maintain a professional visual presentation.
    • Test all equipment beforehand to prevent technical issues.
  3. Content is king:
    • Provide valuable, relevant, and concise content.
    • Use storytelling to make your presentation more compelling.
    • Avoid jargon and overly complex language unless necessary for the topic.
  4. Encourage participation:
    • Ask for comments, thoughts, or experiences from your audience.
    • Directly address comments or questions from participants to make them feel heard.
    • Acknowledge participants by name when responding to their comments.
  5. Use visual aids:
    • Incorporate slides, graphics, videos, or demonstrations to support your points.
    • Ensure visual aids are high quality and easy to understand.
  6. Maintain a steady pace:
    • Keep your presentation dynamic and avoid long periods of monotonous speech.
    • Use pauses strategically for emphasis and to allow your audience to process information.
  7. Preparation and rehearsal:
    • Practice your presentation/s to maintain a confident, engaging presence.
    • Anticipate possible questions and prepare your answers.
  8. Provide an agenda:
    • Let your audience know the structure of the event in advance so they know what to expect.
    • Stick to your agenda to respect your audience’s time.
  9. Use multiple presenters or panels:
    • Different voices and perspectives can make the live stream more interesting.
    • Ensure smooth transitions between speakers and segments.
  10. Responsive and real-time engagement:
    • Have a moderator to address technical issues, filter questions, or provide additional resources in real-time.
    • Respond promptly to comments and questions.
  11. Follow-up:
    • Offer additional resources, like a summary, additional reading, or a replay of the live stream.
    • Use post-event surveys to gather feedback and improve future live streams.
  12. Create a community feel:
    • Use inclusive language to make your audience feel part of a community.
    • Encourage networking among participants, if possible, via breakout rooms or chat.
  13. Accessibility:
    • Provide captions or a transcript for those who are hearing-impaired or whose native language is different from the one spoken in the live stream.
    • Consider time zones if you have an international audience.
  14. Promotion:
    • Before the event, use email, social media, or company channels to build anticipation.
    • Provide clear instructions on how to access the live stream.

By implementing these practices, you can significantly enhance audience engagement, making your corporate live stream a more effective and memorable experience.

How do we manage technical issues during the live stream?

Technical issues during a live stream can be disruptive, but with proper planning, quick response strategies, and clear communication, you can manage these challenges effectively. Here’s how:

  1. Preparation and testing:
    • Conduct a thorough technical rehearsal well before the actual event. Test all equipment, software, internet connection, and the streaming platform itself to ensure they work harmoniously.
    • Establish a stable internet connection, preferably with a wired Ethernet connection. Have a backup internet solution, just in case.
  2. Technical support team:
    • Have a skilled technical support team on standby. This team should be familiar with all the equipment and software being used and ready to troubleshoot any issues that arise.
    • Consider having a dedicated person to monitor the live stream’s quality, including audio and video.
  3. Backup equipment:
    • Have backup systems in place. This includes additional microphones, a secondary camera, extra lighting, spare cables, and even a backup computer or streaming device.
  4. Clear communication:
    • If an issue arises, communicate clearly and calmly with your audience to let them know you’re aware of the issue and are working to resolve it. This maintains trust and patience among your viewers.
    • Consider using an on-screen message or graphic to inform the audience of the issue if you’re unable to communicate verbally.
  5. Recording the event:
    • Record the event locally as a backup. If the live stream fails, you can still provide the recording to your audience afterwards.
  6. Redundancy:
    • Use a streaming platform or setup that allows for redundancy, meaning the stream can be switched over to a backup server or platform in case the primary one fails.
  7. Contingency plan:
    • Have a detailed contingency plan for various scenarios (e.g., power failure, internet outage, equipment malfunction). Make sure everyone involved knows this plan and their roles in it.
    • Plan for what to do if you cannot restore the stream, such as rescheduling or providing a recorded session.
  8. Instructions for attendees:
    • Before the event, provide attendees with guidelines on what to do if they experience technical issues, such as refreshing their browsers, checking their own internet connection, or using an alternate link.
    • Offer a way for attendees to report issues they’re experiencing, like a chat function or dedicated support email.
  9. Use reliable streaming services:
    • Choose a reliable streaming platform known for minimal downtime and robust customer support.
  10. Real-time monitoring:
    • Monitor the health of your stream in real-time, including metrics like buffering rates, viewer numbers, and stream quality. Most professional streaming platforms offer a dashboard for this purpose.
  11. Bandwidth management:
    • Ensure you have sufficient bandwidth for a high-quality stream, and limit other internet usage that might compete for bandwidth during the event.
  12. Post-event review:
    • After the event, conduct a technical review to understand any issues that occurred. This helps improve future streams and prepares you for potential recurring problems.

While you can’t anticipate every issue, these strategies can help you manage most technical problems in live streaming effectively and professionally. Remember, preparation and communication are key.

Is there a limit to the number of attendees or viewers?

The limit to the number of attendees or viewers in a live stream largely depends on the platform you’re using and the plan or package you have chosen with that service. Here’s how attendee limits work on various popular live streaming services:

  1. Zoom:
    • Zoom allows up to 1,000 viewers on its webinar feature, depending on the plan you’ve subscribed to. The basic plan has a limit of 100 participants.
  2. Microsoft Teams:
    • Microsoft Teams can accommodate up to 10,000 attendees in a view-only broadcast mode.
  3. Webex:
    • Cisco’s Webex Events solution can support up to 3,000 attendees in a standard webinar and up to 100,000 in Webex Webcasting mode.
  4. YouTube Live:
    • YouTube Live doesn’t impose a limit on the number of viewers who can watch a live stream, making it suitable for very large public broadcasts.
  5. Facebook Live:
    • Facebook Live also doesn’t have a specified limit on live viewers.
  6. Vimeo Livestream:
    • Vimeo offers packages that allow for varying numbers of viewers, and you can purchase additional live viewership capacity.
  7. ON24:
    • ON24’s platform is used primarily for webinars, virtual events, and content sharing, supporting thousands of attendees, but the exact number can depend on your package.
  8. Intrado (formerly West):
    • Intrado provides professional webcasting services capable of handling very large events, often accommodating tens of thousands of viewers.
  9. Kaltura:
    • Kaltura is designed for a range of event sizes, and the maximum number of attendees will depend on the customer’s service agreement.
  10. Crowdcast:
    • Crowdcast is designed for interactive webinars, workshops, Q&As, and live courses, offering features like easy setup, HD streaming, real-time analytics, and unique participant engagement tools (polls, chat, Q&A, etc.). It’s known for its user-friendly interface and robust analytics.
  11. Hopin:
    • Hopin provides a virtual venue for live online events, offering features that aim to recreate the in-person event experience, including receptions, stages, networking areas, and vendor booths.

When choosing a platform, it’s essential to consider:

  • Audience size: Estimate how many attendees or viewers you expect for your events. This helps determine which platform can accommodate your needs.
  • Cost: Higher capacity for attendees usually comes at a higher cost. Compare pricing plans among different service providers.
  • Event type: Consider whether your event is private (e.g., an internal company meeting, a training session, a customer webinar) or public (e.g., a product launch broadcasted to the general public).
  • Interactivity needs: For events where you want high levels of audience interaction, the effective attendee limit might be lower, as not all platforms manage large-scale interactions well.
  • Technical support: For very large events, consider platforms that offer technical support as part of their package, to handle any issues that might arise during streaming.

Always check with the service provider for the most up-to-date information on attendee limits and other capabilities, as these details can change based on new offerings or updates to the services.

Can our live stream be accessed on all devices?

Yes, most modern live streaming platforms are designed to be accessible across a variety of devices. However, the extent of accessibility can depend on the platform you’re using and the devices your audience will use. Here’s how device compatibility generally works with live streams:

  1. Desktops and laptops:
    • Virtually all live streaming services support access from computers. Viewers can watch the live stream through web browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge.
    • Some platforms might require viewers to install a plugin or desktop app to access the stream.
  2. Smartphones and tablets:
    • Major live streaming platforms offer mobile apps for iOS and Android devices. These apps are usually available in the respective app stores.
    • Some live streams can also be accessed via mobile web browsers, although the user experience might be more limited compared to the desktop version or a dedicated app.
  3. Smart TVs:
    • Live stream accessibility on smart TVs depends on the platform and the TV’s capabilities. Some smart TVs have built-in browsers or compatible apps for services like YouTube Live or Facebook Live.
    • Alternatively, users can cast the live stream from their mobile devices or computers to the TV using technologies like Chromecast or AirPlay.
  4. Game consoles:
    • Consoles like the Xbox or PlayStation may access live streams if they have a compatible web browser or app. However, this is less common and might be more complex for users.
  5. Wearable technologies (like smartwatches):
    • These devices generally don’t support live streaming due to their small screens and limited processing power, except for receiving notifications or using them as remote controls in some cases.

To ensure broad device accessibility for your live stream:

  • Compatibility check: Before the event, provide information about device compatibility and any necessary apps or plugins. This helps attendees prepare their devices in advance.
  • Technical support: Offer a way for attendees to contact technical support for help with accessing the live stream.
  • Test runs: Consider conducting test runs on different devices to check for compatibility and performance issues.
  • User instructions: Provide clear instructions for accessing the live stream, including links to any required apps or plugins.
  • Responsive design: If you are embedding the live stream on your website, ensure the webpage is responsive, meaning it automatically adjusts to fit different screen sizes.
  • Bandwidth consideration: Be mindful of mobile users who may have bandwidth restrictions, and consider offering different streaming quality options if your platform allows it.

By considering these aspects, you can make your live stream accessible to as wide an audience as possible. However, always refer to the specific compatibility and requirements of your chosen live streaming platform for the most accurate information.

Do we need a special internet connection for live streaming?

Live streaming does require a reliable, high-speed internet connection to ensure a smooth, high-quality broadcast. While you don’t necessarily need a “special” internet connection, there are certain requirements and considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Upload speed:
    • This is critical for live streaming. The required upload speed depends on the quality of your stream. For a high-definition (HD) stream, a consistent upload speed of at least 3-5 Mbps (megabits per second) is recommended. For higher quality, like 4K streaming, you’ll need a much higher upload speed — around 25 Mbps or more.
    • Test your upload speed using online tools to ensure it can handle the live stream’s requirements.
  2. Wired connection:
    • Where possible, use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi. Wired connections are typically more stable and reliable, providing a consistent signal strength, which is crucial for live streaming.
  3. Dedicated connection:
    • If possible, use a dedicated internet connection for your live stream. Other activities on the network, such as large file downloads, video calls, or excessive browsing by others, can significantly impact your available bandwidth and stream quality.
  4. Latency:
    • Lower latency is better, especially for interactive streams where you engage with your audience in real-time. Higher latency may cause delays in interactions.
  5. Redundancy:
    • For critical live streams, especially in a corporate environment, consider having a backup internet connection. This could be a second internet service provider (ISP), a mobile hotspot, or 4G/5G connectivity.
  6. VPN and Firewall Settings:
    • Corporate networks often have VPNs and firewalls for security. Ensure these won’t interfere with your live stream. You might need to adjust settings or acquire permissions from your network administrator.
  7. Data usage:
    • Be aware of your data usage, especially if you’re using a mobile hotspot or a plan with data limits. Live streaming consumes a significant amount of data.
  8. Internet Service Provider (ISP):
    • Check any restrictions your ISP may have in place. Some ISPs throttle bandwidth during peak usage times, which can affect your stream’s quality.
  9. Equipment quality:
    • Ensure your router and modem are high-quality and can handle the speed and data requirements of your live stream.
  10. Testing:
    • Before the actual event, do several test runs to check the quality of your live stream with your current internet conditions. This helps you anticipate any necessary adjustments before going live.

While these are general guidelines, the specific requirements can vary based on the streaming platform, the number of participants, the type of content you’re streaming, and whether you’re including interactive elements. If you’re planning a particularly large or high-stakes event, consulting with a professional or your ISP for tailored advice is recommended.

What legal considerations are there?

When conducting corporate live streaming, there are several legal considerations to keep in mind to ensure compliance with laws and regulations, as well as to protect your organisation and its stakeholders. Here are some key legal aspects you should consider:

  1. Copyrights:
    • Ensure that all content you plan to use during your live stream, such as music, videos, images, text, or any third-party content, is either owned by your company or properly licensed for use. Unauthorized use of copyrighted material can lead to legal issues and fines.
  2. Privacy:
    • If you are collecting any personal data from attendees (like names, email addresses, or any other identifying information), you need to be compliant with data protection regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU or similar laws in other jurisdictions.
    • Inform participants if the session is being recorded and obtain their consent, especially if the recording is to be distributed later or used for promotional purposes.
  3. Confidentiality:
    • If your live stream is for internal purposes or includes sharing of confidential information, make sure it’s adequately secured to prevent unauthorized access. Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) for participants may also be necessary.
  4. Content liability:
    • Be mindful of the content being shared during the live stream. Avoid making unfounded claims, defamatory remarks, or sharing any content that could be considered misleading, offensive, or inappropriate. Your company can be held liable for the content it disseminates.
  5. Platform compliance:
    • Ensure that your use of the streaming platform complies with its terms of service. Violating these terms could lead to your stream being taken down or other penalties.
  6. Employment laws:
    • If employees are involved in the creation or production of the live stream, ensure compliance with employment laws. This includes working hours, compensation, and health and safety regulations, particularly if the live stream involves physical events.
  7. Accessibility:
    • Depending on your jurisdiction, you may be legally required to provide accessibility features for disabled individuals. This can include closed captioning, sign language interpretation, or other accessible content features.
  8. Regulatory compliance:
    • If your organisation operates in a regulated industry, there may be specific rules about what information can be shared or how events need to be conducted. Ensure you’re aware of and compliant with these regulations.
  9. Contracts and agreements:
    • If you’re working with external vendors, speakers, or partners for your live stream, ensure that all contractual agreements are clear and comprehensive, outlining each party’s responsibilities, rights, and any compensation or terms of service.
  10. Trademarks:
    • Respect the trademarks of other companies or products. Unauthorized use of trademarked logos, slogans, or other brand elements can lead to legal issues.

Given the potential complexity and the stakes involved, it’s often wise to consult with a legal professional or your organisation’s legal department before hosting a live stream, especially if you plan to cover any sensitive topics or use potentially copyrighted material. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation, industry, and jurisdiction.

Can the live stream be recorded and distributed afterward?

Yes, most live streaming platforms allow you to record the session and distribute it afterward, but there are several important considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Consent:
    • If your live stream includes discussions, presentations, or participation from individuals, you should obtain their consent beforehand, especially if you plan to distribute the recording or use it for promotional purposes. This is not just a matter of courtesy but often a legal requirement.
  2. Copyright and licensing:
    • If your live stream includes copyrighted materials (e.g., music, video clips, images), ensure you have the rights not only to broadcast them but also to include them in a recorded version that will be redistributed. The licensing rights for live content and recorded content can differ.
  3. Platform capabilities:
    • Check if your chosen live streaming platform supports recording functionality and, if so, whether that functionality is included in your plan or requires an additional fee.
  4. Data protection and privacy:
    • If the live stream involves the collection of personal data or includes personal data in the content, ensure your recording and distribution methods comply with data protection laws like the GDPR in Europe or similar regulations in other jurisdictions.
  5. Storage and access:
    • Decide where the recording will be stored (e.g., cloud service, company servers) and who will have access to it. Ensure the storage solution is secure, especially if the content is confidential or sensitive.
  6. Editing:
    • You might want to edit the recorded live stream before distribution, removing any unnecessary sections, fixing audio/visual issues, or adding additional content like subtitles, annotations, or extra information.
  7. Distribution rights and restrictions:
    • Be clear about the rights and restrictions regarding the distribution of the recorded content. This is particularly important if you’re including content or contributions from third parties.
  8. Accessibility:
    • Consider adding features like closed captioning, transcripts, or descriptive audio to make the recorded content accessible to a wider audience, including those with disabilities.
  9. Retention policy:
    • Define how long the recording will be available and if it will be archived for future access. This policy should be communicated to all relevant parties.
  10. Feedback and analytics:
    • After distributing the recorded content, gather feedback and analyze viewership data to improve future live streams and recordings.

It’s always advisable to consult with your legal department or a legal expert to ensure all aspects of recording and distributing a live stream are compliant with relevant laws and best practices, especially concerning consent, copyright, and data protection.

How do we measure the success of our live stream?

Measuring the success of a corporate live stream involves multiple metrics, both quantitative and qualitative, that can provide insight into the effectiveness and impact of your event. Here are key metrics and methods to consider:

  1. Viewer metrics:
    • Attendance rates: Compare the number of registrants to the number of actual attendees to gauge interest and commitment.
    • Viewership peaks and duration: Note when viewership peaks and how long, on average, viewers stay. High drop-off rates may indicate issues with content or technical aspects.
    • Geographic distribution: Analyse where viewers are logging in from, if applicable, for a global perspective.
  2. Engagement metrics:
    • Interactivity: Measure audience interaction through live chats, polls, Q&A sessions, and other interactive features. More interaction often indicates higher engagement.
    • Social media activity: Track shares, comments, and likes on social media platforms if your live stream is linked to or promoted through them.
    • Content engagement: Review which segments of your live stream were most watched or re-watched, which parts were skipped, and when viewers dropped off.
  3. Technical metrics:
    • Streaming quality: Record instances of buffering, lag, or poor video quality, which can impact viewer satisfaction.
    • Device usage: Understand what devices your audience used to view the live stream, informing future technical and formatting decisions.
  4. Feedback:
    • Surveys and questionnaires: Post-event surveys can provide valuable qualitative data on what participants found useful, engaging, or lacking.
    • Comments and reviews: Analyse comments during and after the event, as well as any reviews or feedback sent via email.
  5. Business metrics:
    • Lead generation: For corporate events aimed at lead generation or sales, measure the number of new leads or customers acquired.
    • Conversion rates: If there were calls to action (like a product purchase or signing up for a newsletter), measure the conversion rates.
    • Return on investment (ROI): Analyse the costs of setting up and hosting the live stream against the financial benefits achieved, whether through sales, leads, or other relevant metrics.
  6. Content metrics:
    • Content distribution: If the live stream is recorded and redistributed, track subsequent views, downloads, and shares.
    • Continued engagement: Note continued engagement with the content or related resources after the live stream ends.
  7. Organisational goals:
    • Specific objectives: Align the measurement criteria with your specific event objectives, whether they’re increasing brand awareness, launching a product, providing training, etc.

By using a mix of these metrics, businesses can gain a comprehensive view of their live stream’s performance and areas for improvement. However, it’s essential to decide which metrics are most relevant based on the event’s objectives and to set benchmarks or goals for each before the event for meaningful analysis.