Smart ways to ensure a glitch-free live video streaming experience

Abstract

Users today expect a live town hall streaming video session to offer the same viewing experience as an online soccer match. The reality, however, can be quite different. The inherent complexity of hosting a live video streaming session behind a corporate firewall with a single path to the internet is considerable. If the network is not architected properly, potential problems can multiply exponentially. Despite the well publicised streaming problems suffered by high-profile organisations, most companies neglect to optimise networks for live events. This paper examines the pain points that hinder an organisation's ability to provide a consistent, reliable and secure user experience, as well as common causes of failure, including: planning and assessment of network, audience, capacity and purpose; insight into best practices that detail what works and why; strategies for content recording, archiving and tracking; and aligning user needs with organisational, industry compliance requirements. Using quantifiable data, objective industry analysis, third-party expert commentary and real-world examples of failures and successes, the author makes the case for enterprise content management and distribution solutions. These platforms serve as a mechanism to manage networks and user experience on the day of the event, mitigate streaming lapses, as well as enable tracking and postevent archiving.