In today’s market, getting the word out is key to success, and that means content. Even if your main business isn’t content creation, and especially if it is, reaching potential customers is best done by using the latest tools and techniques. In previous decades, that meant linear broadcast TV and radio. But those avenues are expensive and unwieldy for the majority of business owners, and their hold on market share is slipping compared to streaming.
Luckily, setting up OTT streaming is well within reach even for small businesses. Streaming your content to viewers across multiple platforms has never been easier, and this means you can get started connecting with viewers today. Here, we’ll look at getting started with OTT streaming.
Want to dive deeper into designing an OTT app? Check out our definitive guide to OTT apps.
What is OTT?
OTT, short for over the top, is video content delivered without the use of traditional broadcast infrastructures like cable or broadcast TV. Over the top channels instead utilize the internet to deliver content to a wide range of devices like smartphones, tablets, computers, or smart TVs. By way of example, Netflix, HULU, and Amazon Video are all OTT platforms.
Benefits of Streaming with OTT
OTT streaming allows you to create an immersive, interactive, and unique experience for viewers – one that can’t be repeated with traditional broadcasting. You can deliver custom content, interact directly with viewers, serve tightly targeted advertising, and monetize content in a number of ways that are only possible by leveraging modern technology like smartphones, computers, and smart TVs.
Steps to Get Started with OTT
Getting started with OTT streaming can be as simple as logging into your favorite existing platform and livestreaming content. Twitch, Facebook Live, and YouTube Live are all examples of OTT livestreaming platforms you can use right away.
If you’re looking for a more robust and custom solution, you may want to start your own streaming platform. Plenty of businesses large and small are doing this to great effect. The steps are simple:
- Decide on your content
- Pick a host
- Create your app
- Set up monetization
Of course, the devil is in the details, so your best bet for getting steps two through four done efficiently is to partner with an expert who can do the heavy lifting for you. By using a dedicated OTT streaming platform builder, you can get set up in no time with no coding. You could go it alone, but that would mean setting up a video server and hiring a dev team to code your new app. Leveraging a streaming platform like Zype lets you focus on content.
OTT Streaming Considerations
There are a few key things to consider when picking your dedicated streaming platform:
- Delivery endpoints – Can your platform stream where your viewers watch? This may include smartphones, laptops, tablets, or smart TVs.
- Encoding features for optimal delivery – Make sure your platform is ready to optimize video content for the best viewing experience on each device.
- Video analytics – You’ll want to analyze which content is working best to maximize your impact.
- Monetization – Can your platform help you monetize your content the way that works for you and your customers?
- Security – A good streaming platform can protect your content and keep your viewers safe as they view and make purchases.
Pay attention to these considerations so you can find the best possible service for you.
Start Streaming Your Content Now
There’s never been a better time to learn how to stream to OTT, and with the right partner, content creation and building great relationships with viewers can be your number one focus. If you’re ready to start streaming, request your free demo of Zype’s streaming platform today.