VOD Platform for Your Business: Your Complete Guide

Table of Contents

    Put yourself in your customers’ shoes. You’ve just signed up for a new customer account management SaaS platform, and you are overwhelmed. Many such platforms are littered with bells and whistles that are a lot to take in but, once taught, can be immensely helpful. Luckily for you, your SaaS provider has a video-on-demand (VOD) library of tutorial and best practices videos that are easy to browse and available to view at the click of a button. This helps you find what you need quickly and is all included in the cost of your support plan. They also update their VOD platform all the time in response to customer FAQs, new features, and other industry developments.

    Now substitute tutorials and best practices videos with whatever your customers want to see: product release demos, curated fan content, replays and highlights, etc. Or maybe you use it internally for HR and security trainings, ongoing education, and so forth. You don’t have to be in the business of video to benefit from it or to leverage it for the benefit of your customers.

    You don’t have to be in the business of video to benefit from it or to leverage it for the benefit if your customers.

    Understanding VOD Platforms

    Video-on-demand (VOD) is a model for video distribution that allows viewers to access pre-recorded video content at their leisure. Basically, any time you log into your Netflix or Hulu account and select a television show or movie, you are engaging in VOD streaming. However, VOD platform use cases extend far past these popular streaming services. They can be found in internally facing HR systems, on virtual education platforms, and anywhere else you might find a menu of pre-recorded videos from which to select.  

    You’ll notice we’ve said “pre-recorded” a couple of times now. That’s the real distinguishing feature of VOD streaming. If you elect to watch a live stream from a selection of live stream options, then you are not streaming on-demand. Similarly, if you tune into a pre-recorded webinar at a specific time, you are not streaming on-demand. A VOD platform is user centric; it lets you decide what to watch, when to watch it, and even allows you to pause, rewind, and fast-forward the content.  

    What is a VOD Platform?

    If VOD streaming is the act of selecting videos for viewing a la carte, then a VOD platform is the application or “restaurant” that serves up the menu. This is sometimes used to refer to the VOD streaming service (e.g. Hulu or Netflix) but is more accurately used to refer to what’s under the hood. In other words, a VOD platform allows VOD streaming services to build the application through which viewers can access their content. In this sense, VOD platforms are B2B solutions that allow a company such as yours to build a VOD streaming service, whether that service is internal, B2B, or B2C.

    How VOD Platforms Work

    A VOD platform gives a company the tools and infrastructure they need to build a VOD streaming service, whether they are looking to be the next Netflix or simply give their customers or employees access to video content. To better understand how this happens, we should look at how VOD streaming works.

    VOD STREAMING WORKFLOW

    1. Content Acquisition: The first step in VOD streaming is obtaining the video content. This could be a pre-recorded video or a live broadcast. 
    1. Digitization and Encoding: The video content is then digitized (if not already in digital format) and encoded into a suitable digital format. This process may involve compression to reduce the file size, making it easier to store and stream.
    1. Content Storage: The encoded video content is stored on a server, ready for streaming. This is also the time when metadata (such as video title, description, and keywords) is added to the video files, which helps in content discovery.
    1. Content Delivery Network (CDN): To ensure the smooth delivery of video content to users worldwide, the content is often distributed across a network of servers known as a Content Delivery Network (CDN). This reduces the load on the original server and decreases latency by providing the content from the edge server geographically closest to the user. 
    1. Streaming Protocol: When a user requests to watch a video, the server uses a streaming protocol to deliver the video content. Common streaming protocols include HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) and Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH). These protocols adapt the quality of the video stream in real time according to the viewer's network conditions.
    1. Client-side Player: The video content is received and decoded by a video player located on the user's device. This player could be a web-based player or a dedicated application, depending on the VOD platform.
    1. Content Consumption: The user can watch the video on their device, with the ability to control when, where, and how they watch. They can pause, rewind, fast-forward, and (depending on the VOD platform) download the video for later viewing.
    1. Analytics and Reporting: Most VOD platforms also provide analytics tools that track viewer behavior and video performance. This data is valuable for understanding user engagement and optimizing the VOD experience.

    Viewers can either watch the stream directly as it arrives from the online source or download the data for later viewing. There may be restrictions on these capabilities enforced by the streaming services themselves. Many streaming services, like Netflix, won’t allow viewers to store video files locally or copy those files into other formats.  

    ROLE OF THE VOD PLATFORM

    Where do you get the video server to store and transcode your video data for delivery? How do you access a CDN capable of delivering to your audience? What tools can you use to effectively analyze your streaming performance and audience behaviors? This where your chosen VOD platform provider comes in.

    Do You Need a Vod Platform?

    Let’s start with “Do I need VOD?” Unless producing and monetizing video content is your business’s bread and butter, then the direct benefits of a VOD streaming strategy may be hard to pin down. However, businesses across industries are finding ways to use VOD platforms for operations, education, marketing, and more.

    You could just as easily ask “do I need a content strategy?” Written and visual content can establish you as an authority, provide valuable education for your audience, and help to promote brand awareness. Video content does the same with the added benefit of being more engaging and attention grabbing. What’s more, it is more easily monetized than other forms of content for your average business.

    You could just as easily ask 'Do I need a content strategy?'

    VOD Platform Use Cases

    We’ve hinted at several alternative VOD platform use cases. But if you’re wondering what VOD can do for your business, then your uses for it are likely not so clear cut.

    INTERNAL

    One of the primary internal businesses use cases for a VOD platform is training and development. Companies can create a library of training videos accessible anytime, providing a consistent learning experience for employees. VOD also enables effective communication. Instead of emails or memos, companies can disseminate information through videos that are more engaging and easier to remember. Finally, many businesses use VOD platforms for team building and to foster a sense of community within the organization. Video introductions of new team members and showcasing employee achievements can boost morale and help cultivate a positive work culture.

    Summary:

    • More effective internal communication
    • Team and culture building activities
    • Training and development

    EXTERNAL

    As with other forms of content, video content can be used by a business for thought leadership, to establish authority, and to generally promote itself as an expert in its industry. This can be done through webinars, demonstrations, tutorials, and more. Businesses can use VOD content to provide better customer service through troubleshooting videos, educational videos, and more. Finally, even businesses for whom VOD is a side project can still turn it into a side hustle by gating and monetizing valuable video content.

    Summary:

    • Thought leadership and networking
    • Customer service
    • Monetization options

    VOD Streaming Benefits

    Still not convinced that there’s room for a VOD platform in your business model? Let’s take a step back and analyze how VOD streaming is the next logical step for most businesses (provided they don’t already do it).  

    CONTENT CREATION BENEFITS 

    As of 2023, 91% of B2B businesses and 89% of B2C businesses have a content marketing strategy, according to DemandSage. This same study revealed that 77% of Fortune 500 companies had a dedicated blog. Given these numbers, your business likely already engages in content creation and marketing, including a blog. If not, it’s worth asking why.  

    1. Establish Thought Leadership: Blogs and similar content are effective ways to demonstrate your expertise and establish a knowledge base, which in turns inspires trust in potential customers and increases brand awareness.  
    1. Boost SEO: Varied and well-optimized written content can increase traffic to your website. Making that content well-written and valuable to readers will increase linger time on your site, which also boosts search engine rankings.  
    1. Level Up Your Social Media Strategy: People follow companies that post meaningful, interesting, and valuable content. They don’t want to see constant self-promotion. The more content you build, the more you’ll have to share across social media sites, thus boosting followers and increasing brand awareness.  
    1. Guide People Through Your Funnel: Talk to decision makers and customers at every stage of the marketing funnel. Use well-placed CTAs to lead them through the buying (or upgrading) process. 
    1. Maintain Customer Relations: Consistency and authenticity help to keep you top of mind for current and future customers, making it easier to maintain and grow your customer base.  

    BENEFITS OF VIDEO CONTENT 

    Now let’s look at video content. For a long time, it was easier to splash your website with written content and stock imagery than to create and embed video. However, business best practices continue to lag behind the latest tools. Platforms such as SundaySky make branded video creation easier than ever, and not a moment too soon. After all, according to Wyzowl’s 2023 state of video marketing report, 91% of consumers want more video content from their brands. The majority of these consumers claim that watching a video has convinced them to purchase a product, service, or software offering.  

    1. Emotional Connection: Video content creates a more personal connection with audiences by addressing them directly (in a manner of speaking).
    1. Increased Engagement: Many viewers find video content more immediately engaging and easier to digest than a lengthy post. Short form videos are best for this purpose. Depending on the subject, it may need to be a lengthier video or accompanied by written content.
    1. More Social Momentum: Visual content tends to elicit more engagement and shares on social media. 
    1. Improved SEO: Video content is more likely to keep people lingering on your web page a little longer. Increased linger time leads to boosted search engine rankings. 
    1. Greater Opportunities for Creativity: Live and interactive streams to visual demos and dynamic informational graphics, you can just do more with video. 

    VOD BENEFITS OVER LIVE STREAMING 

    You understand the strength of content marketing. But why use video-on-demand over the immediacy of live streaming? Both types of video content are highly valuable in their own ways, and the best video content strategy would include both. But here are a few points where VOD reigns supreme.  

    1. Control over Content and Scheduling: With a VOD platform, content creators have complete control over their content and when it is released. This allows for more strategic content planning and scheduling.
    1. Increased Viewership and Engagement: The convenience and flexibility of VOD can lead to larger audiences and more engagement from users. They can watch their preferred content when and where they wish, which can boost viewership numbers.
    1. Device Compatibility: VOD content can be accessed on a variety of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers. This wide compatibility broadens the audience base.
    1. Monetization Opportunities: VOD platforms can leverage different business models, such as subscriptions, pay-per-view, and rentals, providing various ways to generate revenue.
    1. Brand Awareness and Reputation: Offering content via a VOD platform can enhance a brand's reputation and increase awareness, as it demonstrates innovation and a commitment to customer service.
    1. Convenience for Viewers: VOD platforms offer viewers the ability to access content at their convenience, providing a more flexible viewing experience compared to traditional cable and satellite services.
    2. Data Insights: VOD platforms can track user behavior, providing valuable insights that can be used to improve the service, tailor content, and enhance customer experiences.

    VOD Platform Benefits

    Now let’s focus on the “platform” of it all. Do all these options feel overwhelming? While building the right VOD streaming service for your business takes time and consideration, a VOD platform provider can give you all the tools you need and guide you in making your vision a reality. 

    Choosing a Vod Platform Provider

    Select a VOD platform provider that’s flexible in both the tools and pricing plans it has available. After all, the best VOD platform provider will be one that grows with you, providing options that are as scalable as they are cost effective.  

    What to Look For in a VOD Platform Provider

    For amateur video distribution, sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube could be the right choice. Nevertheless, if you are aiming to use VOD streaming for business purposes, then you should go for a professional streaming platform. Consider the following when making your choice:  

    • Content Management System (CMS): Without a straightforward way to store, share, and organize VOD files, there is little value in having a VOD service. A video CMS helps store, manage, and distribute video assets. You can buy a video CMS as a standalone product, but it’s best to look for a VOD platform provider that offers CMS as an integrated component. 
    • Content Delivery Network (CDN): CDNs are server networks that help limit the sort of server strain that can lead to poor quality or failed streams. A reliable global CDN can help you stream more quickly and efficiently to a large number of viewers regardless of geographic location. It can also help you accommodate traffic surges and protect against DDoS attacks. CDNs can be purchased separately, but the best VOD platforms will have a CDN already built in. 
    • Digital Rights Management (DRM): It’s difficult to monetize a VOD service without content security measures in place. Effective VOD platform security includes access restrictions, like login requirements, token key access management, and more. It also protects the digital assets more directly, often through digital watermarking, to keep users from copying and redistributing your content.  
    • Adaptive Bitrate Streaming (ABR): Have you witnessed a stream shift from a fuzzy picture to a sharp focus in an instant? If so, you are acquainted with adaptive bitrate streaming (ABR). This process dynamically adapts video bitrate to accommodate user bandwidth restrictions, ensuring the best possible video experience for viewers. 
    • Transcoding and Delivery: Transcoding and processing is essential to accommodating different screens and varying internet speeds. This not only enables ABR, but also repackages content in a variety of formats for seamless playback on any device. Use a flexible VOD platform that works with a range of streaming protocols. 
    • High Quality Video Player: Take ownership of the viewer’s experience by selecting a VOD platform with a quality video player integrated into it. Your ideal VOD platform will have a player that is reliable, secure, provides advanced viewer controls, and even tracks player-specific analytics.  
    • Advanced End-to-End Analytics: Part of any effective VOD service is the ability to gain insights across your workflow from ingest through delivery, including audience specific data like geographic location and playback devices. This allows you to maximize the effectiveness of your platform.  

    Top VOD Platform Providers

    It’s worth noting that VOD platform providers are rarely just that. Many of them offer a host of services and products related to video streaming, like live streaming tools, video CDN access, media server access, online video players, and more. However, it’s also worth noting that just because a provider advertises VOD, they don’t necessarily offer any of those additional features. When choosing the right VOD platform for you, look past the reviews and other noise and really dig into what that organization can do for you (and at what cost).  

    These providers are among the best options for VOD streaming, whether you want to build something truly unique or prefer an out of the box solution. We’ve measured them against the criteria above and included highlights that truly set them apart.  

    WOWZA 

    Wowza is characterized by flexibility and adaptability. We market ourselves as builder-focused given our accessible video APIs, flexible protocol support, and easy integration with existing infrastructure and workflows. However, we also offer a more holistic, cloud-based option for those just looking to get rolling as quickly and painlessly as possible. In either case, we can be as big or as small as you need, right sized for your business and your budget. Wowza is an ideal choice for those looking for flexibility not only in the solution itself, but also in how it can adapt to an evolving video strategy. In other words, we can start where you’re at and scale with your needs without missing a beat. 

    Wowza meets all of the listed criteria either inherently or through integrated partnerships.

    CMS CDN DRM ABR Transcoding Player Analytics

    Highlights: 

    • Custom global CDN with a 99.9% uptime.  
    • Real-time, sub-second, streaming to a million viewers  
    • Unique video player tools, including multi-camera angle toggling for viewers 
    • Robust security options from a SOC 2 Type 2 certified organization 
    • Advanced end-to-end analytics, including audience and player-specific insights 
    • Live to VOD streamlined capabilities for easier asset maximization 
    • Substantial free and paid support options, including 24/7 and live event support 

    Free Trial? – YES 

    Wowza is an ideal choice for those looking for flexibility not only in the solution itself, but also in how it can adapt to an evolving video strategy.

    WHY CHOOSE WOWZA?

    Wowza has options designed for both builders looking for a highly customized solution and those looking for a quick and easy start. We offer free and aid premium support, including live event support. Our highly efficient media server and global CDN are trusted by thousands of companies in over 35k implementations worldwide, both large and small, thanks in part to our 99.9% SLA uptime. In short, we just work, and we do it for companies that range in size, budget, implementation needs, and use case.  

    DACAST

    DaCast is known for its affordable and accessible video streaming tools, as well as broadcasting alternatives. Its primary strength is in its flexible pricing options, making it an excellent choice for startups and other small businesses looking for an easy and affordable solution.

    It’s worth noting that given DaCast’s varied payment options, some of the items checked below may be plan specific (as in the case of DRM for video, which is part of their Scale plan). However, they are all present in some capacity.

    CMS CDN DRM ABR Transcoding Player Analytics

    Highlights: 

    • Flexible and affordable pricing plans, including options for unlimited viewers 
    • 27/4 tech support as well as mobile phone support 
    • Builder-friendly with API access and white label options 
    • Custom HTML 5 video player 
    • Robust security includes AES video encryption 

    Free Trial? – YES 

    BRIGHTCOVE

    Brightcove is a highly reliable platform, known for its seamless delivery. It has a long history of providing trusted live and on-demand streaming tools. In particular, it has robust monetization options, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to create a paid VOD streaming service or integrate video into their marketing and advertising workflows.

    As for the criteria listed in the last section, Brightcove meets them all in some capacity or other. However, some of the features may be solution specific.

    CMS CDN DRM ABR Transcoding Player Analytics

    Highlights: 

    • Varied monetization options, including global payment models 
    • Robust customer support, including live event support 
    • App integration for social media, salesforce, and more 
    • Intuitive interface that includes video editing tools 
    • Interactive streaming tools for more immersive experiences 
    • Highly customizable video library tools 

    Free Trial? – Demo by request only 

    KALTURA

    While Kaltura’s live and VOD streaming solutions could work for an individual or organization, their niche set of tools are specifically designed for larger institutions. Specifically, they target educational institutions like universities. This could make them a particularly good option for these groups but less streamlined for those looking for a more generally accessible or flexible streaming platform.

    The only criteria listed above that Kaltura explicitly doesn’t meet is CDN. The remaining features may be available baseline or at an additional cost.

    CMS CDN DRM ABR Transcoding Player Analytics

    Highlights:  

    • Easy integration into existing platforms 
    • Advanced metadata for easier asset management 
    • Closed captioning and video looping capabilities 
    • Varied OTT monetization options 
    • Cloud TV (broadcasting) service 

    Free Trial? – YES 

    JW PLAYER

    JW Player started as just that, a player, the code for which contributed to the original YouTube video player. It’s since grown to provide more comprehensive VOD and live streaming services, including access to a highly expansive CDN that serves more than 130 countries. Now JW Player is best for those looking to get started fast and within budget but who don’t have complex feature requirements or extensive live event needs. 

    CMS CDN DRM ABR Transcoding Player Analytics

    Highlights: 

    • Token authentication and DRM for extra security 
    • Engagement focused features, such as recommended videos from your collection 
    • Ad optimization for monetizing your content  
    • Highly responsive customer support  
    • Article matching embeds relevant videos into other pages and blog posts 

    Free Trial? – YES, but you have to contact sales first 

    Building With Your Vod Platform

    You’re convinced that VOD could benefit your company, and you’ve even researched and selected a VOD platform upon which to build. What now? Do you gatekeep the content? Do you charge for it? Do you even know the right questions to ask?

    VOD Platform Best Practices

    It’s always best to work backwards from your goals. Know what function you want your VOD platform to perform for you and build around that. However, there are some helpful tips, especially where content organization is concerned, that everyone should consider.  

    • Comply with platform requirements to ensure compatibility. 
    • White label the platform and player with your branding.  
    • Prioritize user experience with easy navigation and a best-in-class online video player. 
    • Use accurate metadata to make it easier for viewers to search your video collection. 
    • Actively track streaming analytics to maximize your platform’s performance. 
    • Secure your platform to protect your content and your visitors. 
    • Consider monetization methods that are compatible with your needs and use case. 

    VOD Platform Monetization Models

    Are you planning to make VOD into another revenue stream for your business? When it comes to generating revenue with VOD platforms, there are several approaches that can be utilized. Let’s investigate the most common VOD platform monetization models used to turn content into profits. 

    SVOD 

    The rise of Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) has revolutionized the way people watch films and TV shows. This type of service allows customers to pay a subscription fee to access a wide variety of content. Subscription Video Services (SVS) are now becoming an increasingly popular way to watch media, replacing traditional cable and satellite television packages.  

    SVOD is a type of video streaming service that offers users constant access in exchange for a recurring fee. Those who subscribe to video services such as HBO Max enjoy the high-quality content, lack of commercials, and the freedom to watch whatever they want whenever they want.  

    The SVOD model, championed by services like Netflix, has enabled a form of content access where only subscribers can gain access. This ensures the company's continued revenue each month, regardless of the amount of VOD content streamed. 

    AVOD  

    Ad-supported video on demand, more commonly known as AVOD, closely resembles traditional television programming in that it uses ads and other marketing strategies to generate income. 

    In the Asia-Pacific region, the most popular type of VOD platform is ad-supported. This differentiates it from traditional television, as streaming on the internet allows for targeting advertisements to individual users based on their demographic profiles. 

    As there are now an abundance of streaming services, professionals anticipate that ad-supported video will become more popular, causing Netflix and other OTT providers to reconsider their subscription-based monetization strategy. People might get fed up with having to pay for a variety of streaming services and choose both free and mixed services that combine subscription- and advertisement-sourced income. 

    TVOD 

    Transactional video on demand (TVOD) is a VOD platform monetization model that involves purchasing single-use viewings. In some cases, this type of content is referred to as premium video on demand (PVOD). Examples of PVOD offerings include new release films and boxing matches.  

    This is the least common VOD platform monetization model. Although, the current global pandemic has shifted this trend. During the past two years, a significant number of films that would normally be released in theaters when direct to VOD platforms and made available via a single payment. 

    DO YOU NEED MONETIZATION?

    VOD can be your company’s bread-and-butter, a supplementary revenue stream, or none of the above. Your VOD platform does not need to be charging money to have value for your business. Internal VOD platforms would be more valuable from an operations and administration perspective than a revenue one. Even some external use cases may not call for charging viewers or selling ad space. Maybe you just want to create a more dynamic content strategy (video blog), explore more creative brand building opportunities, or set yourself up as an industry leader through more compelling and shareable content. Think of VOD as a tool that may or may not result in a direct revenue stream but will definitely contribute to a broader marketing, branding, or customer service strategy. 

    Your VOD offering does not need to be charging money to have value for your business.

    VOD Platform Flexibiltiy: Live-To-VOD

    Live-to-VOD refers to the act of repurposing live streamed content by recording it and making it available for on-demand viewing. Many live streaming services use this method to offer viewers the opportunity to view once live content at their leisure. It is an essential feature for many VOD platforms. When it comes to your business, it could provide a more user-friendly customer experience and added opportunities for content monetization. 

     

    LIVE-TO-VOD BENEFITS 

    • Increased Audience Reach: Live-to-VOD allows businesses to extend the reach of their content by making it available for on-demand viewing. This enables them to reach an audience beyond those who were able to watch the live stream. 
    • Convenient Viewing Experience: Live-to-VOD provides viewers with the flexibility to watch the content at their own convenience. They can pause, rewind, and fast-forward through the recorded stream, enhancing their viewing experience. 
    • Accessibility and Inclusivity: Live-to-VOD makes content more accessible to individuals who may have missed the live stream due to time zone differences, scheduling conflicts, or connectivity issues. It promotes inclusivity by allowing everyone to watch the content at their convenience. 
    • Extended Engagement Opportunities: By offering live-to-VOD, businesses can create additional engagement opportunities. Viewers can re-watch and share the content, increasing its exposure and generating more discussions and interactions. 
    • Monetization Potential: Live-to-VOD opens up avenues for businesses to monetize their content. They can charge for access to the recorded stream, offer subscription-based models, or include advertisements within the on-demand content. 
    • Analytics and Insights: Businesses can gather valuable data and insights by analyzing viewer behavior and engagement patterns within the recorded content. This information can be used to optimize future strategies and improve content delivery. 
    • Competitive Advantage: Implementing live-to-VOD can give businesses a competitive edge in the market. It demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction and provides a comprehensive video streaming experience that meets the evolving demands of viewers. 

    HOW TO REPURPOSE LIVE CONTENT

    What’s the point of repurposing live content for VOD if the content is intended to be viewed live? Not all live streaming benefits can be replicated in VOD. However, content is still content, no matter how immediate. This holds true for sports and awards shows, when people will watch delayed broadcasts or even rewatch broadcasts they’ve already seen. It will hold true for much of your content as well.  

    In some cases, this could be as simple as reposting the once live video for viewing after the live stream has ended. This is a great way to capitalize on that roundtable webinar your company spent so much time researching and producing. The value is inherent as viewers are now able to pause, rewind, and fast forward. If you want to get really creative with it, then consider a highlight reel, splicing clips into other types of videos, or grabbing stills for graphics. 

    VOD Platform FAQ

    What Is the Difference Between VOD and Like-Live Streaming?

    Like live streaming, aka live-but-not-live streaming, is basically a pre-recorded video pretending to be a live broadcast. In other words, the video streams at a preset time and viewers can tune in. However, the video is not actually a live stream, even if the subjects behave like it is. This allows streamers to capitalize on the immediacy and excitement of live streaming while maintaining more control over the finished product.  

    What Is the Difference Between VOD and OTT?

    Over-the-top (OTT) streaming is similar to VOD, and many VOD platforms are also OTT platforms. However, while VOD is defined by the on-demand nature of the video content, OTT is defined by whether or not that content is being delivered over the internet or over cable. Netflix is a prime example of a service that is both VOD and OTT. It is both on-demand and streamed over the internet. However, some streaming services are now offering “channels” that stream pre-set programs. These would still qualify as OTT but not VOD.  

    Graphics-VOD-Ven-Diagram-400x800-1

    What is NVOD?

    Near video on demand (NVOD) is an outdated mode of content delivery that still gets asked about a lot, possibly because of its similar name to the other monetization models. It is a marriage between VOD and traditional programming. Basically, the network sets a predetermined program lineup, and you get to select what to watch at the time it’s being aired. This would have been how the pay-per-view likely worked at that hotel you stayed at in the 90’s. This is also a prime example of a distribution model that is VOD but not OTT, as the programs are being broadcast, not streamed, across the internet. We are using VOD loosely here since you are still beholden to their schedule, making the “on-demand” part a misnomer.  

    Make Wowza Your VOD Platform Provider

    Flexibility is the name of the game. Build a highly customizable VOD streaming service with our builder friendly Wowza Streaming Engine software. Get up and streaming within minutes with Wowza Video, our easy-to-start and easy-to-scale cloud-based streaming platform. Consider a hybrid option that gives you the control of Wowza Streaming Engine with access to analytics, best-in-class video player, and CDN as provided by Wowza Video. Whatever your skills and your needs, Wowza has you covered. That’s what makes us more than a live and VOD platform provider. We are a streaming partner that evolves with emerging technology and expands with your needs.