StreamYard 101: Mastering the Essentials with 6 Key Features in 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of online communication and live streaming, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. And while it may not have the name recognition of Zoom, Google or Microsoft, StreamYard continues to stand out as a leading platform in 2024, empowering content creators, businesses, educators and more to broadcast to the world with ease, professionalism and affordability.

First released out of beta in 2019, StreamYard has been a powerful resource since its inception and has continued to evolve through the years, adding new features and functionalities to enhance the streaming experience. In Part 1 of our look into StreamYard, we'll delve into the features that make it a compelling option for new users looking to elevate their live streaming game in 2024.

The duck may look unassuming, but it’s got powerful chops.

1. Intuitive Browser-Based Interface
   Gone are the days of cumbersome software installations and complex setups. StreamYard's intuitive browser-based interface puts the power of professional live streaming at your fingertips, no matter your level of expertise. With its uncluttered design and straightforward controls you can effortlessly manage your stream, transition between cameras and layouts, invite guests, chat privately and publicly, and incorporate multimedia elements—all within a single, convenient platform.

2. Dynamic Multistreaming Capabilities
   One of StreamYard's standout features is its ability to easily connect and livestream to multiple video platforms simultaneously. Whether you're broadcasting to Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitch, Instagram, or a custom RTMP destination like Vimeo or Microsoft Teams, StreamYard simplifies the process, allowing you to reach a broader audience with just a few clicks. You can quickly schedule and post upcoming events to your linked platforms, and while live, view an integrated chat with the ability to display comments live on screen. By expanding your reach across various platforms, you can maximize exposure, engage with different audiences, and amplify your message.

3. Robust Branding and Customization Options
   In today's crowded digital landscape, branding plays a crucial role in distinguishing your content and attracting viewers. StreamYard understands this importance and provides robust branding and customization options to help you stand out. By uploading overlays, logos and backgrounds, you can personalize your streams to reflect your brand identity. You can also find templates or create branded assets that align with StreamYard's built-in layouts, augmenting the look and feel of the platform. For both highly customized and minimalist approaches, StreamYard provides a professional and polished look that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

4. Advanced Production Features
   StreamYard goes beyond standard conferencing platforms by incorporating advanced production features designed to elevate your broadcasts to the next level. With features like themed banners and tickers that can be edited on the fly, built-in slide presentations, and intuitive music, video clip, and image management, you have the flexibility to create dynamic and engaging content tailored to your audience's preferences. StreamYard has a surprising amount of post-production boxes checked as well, incluidng cloud and local recordings from each guest, shareable replays, separate audio track downloads, long term storage, and a built-in trimming tool with frame by frame precision (which isn’t always the case!)

5. Tooltips Galore
   StreamYard's tooltip functionality is a subtle yet indispensable feature woven seamlessly throughout the platform. Useful for both novice broadcasters and seasoned professionals, these unobtrusive pop-up hints provide invaluable assistance, from file size requirements to defining advanced customization options. This approach not only enhances the user experience but also accelerates the learning curve, empowering individuals to unleash the full potential of StreamYard's suite of features. And when more detailed information is needed, a help center full of easy to digest articles is available for producers and guests on all aspects of the platform.

6. Value and Pricing Model
   What sets StreamYard apart is not just its core feature set, but also its flexible pricing structure. With options ranging from a free basic account to affordable paid subscriptions and business plans, StreamYard ensures accessibility for all. Even on a free plan, users can experience many key features, including multistreaming and custom branding, for the price of a watermarked logo on your broadcasts. Diving into the paid tiers unlocks additional perks and goodies, such as transcripts, pre-recorded streams, increased quality, more guests on camera and backstage, on-air webinar hosting, more team members, and even a greenroom. StreamYard's pricing caters to all budgets while delivering an exceptional value, both at monthly and discounted annual prices.

Like all platforms, StreamYard is not a one size fits all solution. We primarily utilize StreamYard as the stage for an event and as a backstage for staff, while a complimentary platform provides the attendee experience. At higher tiered plans an on-air webinar platform is included, with simplified registration, a live video interface and live chat, though it's worth considering if social media should be doing that work, or if a dedicated webinar platform is appropriate if those features are a priority. It's also worth noting that Full HD video at 1080p requires a Professional plan, and while streaming quality is routinely high, Zoom still holds the crown for user settings and bandwidth mitigation, and there’s a risk of audio and frame drops if a connection is poor.

Still, for many use cases, from interview shows and podcasts to presentations and live hybrid events, StreamYard provides the tools needed to deliver professional-grade productions with confidence and reliability. It's one of our go-to platforms at Revent, and what's even more exciting is how it's continued to innovate while remaining user friendly and approachable. In our next post, we'll take a look at some more advanced features for experienced users looking to dig into everything StreamYard has been building as the platform continues to evolve.

Virtual Events Trends in 2024 ~ Let's Check Out the Future!

Welcome to the ultimate guide on Virtual Events Trends in 2024 – your ticket to staying ahead of the curve! In this insightful journey, we'll dive into the future of virtual gatherings, unveiling trends, strategies, and innovations that will define the landscape.

We're offering you a crystal ball to foresee the captivating trends of virtual events in 2024. We will dive into Artificial Intelligence (AI), the future of attendee interactions, hybrid events and how sustainability will play a role in promoting virtual events. Join us as we unravel these trends and strategies that will define virtual events in 2024.

What role will artificial intelligence play in enhancing virtual event engagement and personalization?

Get ready to welcome our newest event MVP –AI! This digital wizard is about to streamline your virtual events.  

In the realm of virtual hosting, AI can facilitate an improved experience where a virtual MC host interacts with attendees, moderates discussions, and provides real-time updates. Moreover, we anticipate AI playing a crucial role in chatbot assistance, offering real-time support across a spectrum of events, ranging from simple to complex. This assistance will extend to becoming your networking “wingman” by suggesting personalized content and networking recommendations, irrespective of the platform being used.  

But the real showstopper? The automation of post-event personalized follow-ups! This feature can significantly reduce the workload for event planners, allowing for automated and customized interactions with all attendees. Because let's be honest, post-event fatigue is a real thing, and AI is here to save the day.

Overall, AI is poised to change the virtual events industry by enhancing engagement, providing real-time support, and streamlining post-event communication.

What innovations are anticipated in terms of networking and attendee interaction within virtual event environments?

Of course, we've seen some trends strutting their stuff on higher-priced platforms, but fear not, budget-friendly spaces, the party is coming your way. We anticipate the emergence of algorithms supporting smart matchmaking, connecting attendees based on shared interests or goals. Another significant expectation is a surge in more immersive virtual spaces, facilitating seamless movement across venues, exhibitor halls, and collaborative tools within platforms.

The evolution of interactive live Q&A and polling is ongoing, with a shift towards real-time engagement and attendee promotion. The introduction of AI tools encouraging participation and facilitating easy follow-up with speakers, either during or after the event, is becoming more prevalent.

And for the grand finale? The potential widespread adoption of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in virtual events. These technologies promise lifelike and immersive networking experiences, serving as valuable enhancements for any virtual event seeking to offer a unique and engaging experience.

How will the hybrid event model continue to evolve, and what strategies are being adopted for seamless integration?

Picture this: unified event platforms that can juggle both in-room and virtual attendees like a pro circus act. These platforms aim to create a cohesive environment where both sets of attendees can interact seamlessly, encouraging engagement between the in-room and web audience. The focus is on incentivizing in-room attendees to engage with their virtual counterparts, creating unique moments for your web audience and overall fostering a more engaging and inclusive rounded event experience.

Another notable trend is the push for a more interactive hybrid experience. Bridging the gap between physical and virtual, event organizers are emphasizing interactive elements beyond traditional live streaming. This may include incorporating virtual reality, live chat features accessible to both in-room and virtual participants, and ensuring Q&A sessions are open to both audiences, especially for VIP speakers.

Furthermore, there's a growing demand for flexibility in attendee registration. Attendees may wish to access the virtual experience, whether due to fully booked in-person sessions or the need for a moment of quiet in their hotel rooms. Platforms that offer flexible registration options, allowing attendees to seamlessly opt into or out of the virtual experience, are becoming crucial drivers for enhancing the overall attendee experience.

What role will sustainability play in shaping virtual event practices, such as reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly options?

Although virtual events and webinars are not entirely carbon neutral, they do have a significantly reduced impact on climate change compared to traditional in-person events. This reduction is attributed to several factors, such as the decreased need for physical travel and a huge reduction in one-time use products.

Importantly, there is a noticeable industry-wide effort to employ more energy-efficient technologies and infrastructure in virtual events, further minimizing their environmental impact. Despite the already low carbon footprint, there is a collective commitment to making virtual events even greener through ongoing advancements.

We recommend that our clients consider adding a widget to their events to showcase the reduction in carbon emissions achieved. This serves as a tangible representation of the positive environmental impact resulting from participants choosing to engage virtually. By incorporating elements of education and awareness, attendees can better understand and appreciate the positive contribution they make by participating in virtual events, ultimately fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.

And there you have it, the comprehensive guide to Virtual Events Trends in 2024. Stay ahead of the curve, implement these strategies, and make your virtual events the talk of the town!

Virtual Conferences Do’s and Don’ts

If you haven’t already planned one, or even if you have a few virtual conferences under your belt, you know how many decision points there can be. It can feel super overwhelming and frankly panic inducing at times.

Having planned our share of fully virtual conferences, here are some of our top do’s and don’ts to get you back on a happy planning path:

DON’T: Hold your conference on a singular Zoom meeting all-day-long. Trust us when we say you will lose audience participation faster than you can say “boring”!

DO: Find the right Virtual Environment (VE) Platform!

Not all platforms are made the same, with pros and cons for each use case. There are hundreds of solutions available ranging from free to well over six figures, but no matter the budget you should be focusing on ensuring ease of use for your attendees, speakers and your staff.

With so many options, here are a few of our favorites!

•  Zoom Events: The most cost-effective VE platform on the market, starting at only $99/month, which includes the features of Zoom Webinar. Both your organizers and attendees will already be familiar with the software, and you get the bonus of adding a clean landing page for entry and a little marketing pizzaz to your event!

•  Whova.com: Starting at a lower end entry point of $3,000/event, Whova represents the next step up if you want to add a few more branding opportunities to your environment, charge for tickets or allow for attendee networking. It has a very intuitive interface, attendees can create their own virtual greeting cards, and as the organizer, the platform makes it as easy as possible to set up and manage. Also, who doesn’t love a photo contest… and I right!?

•  Accelevents: Here we take the functionality and user experience to another level, with a platform full of useful built-in features with an all-inclusive starting price of $6,999. The layout is fully customizable, it supports robust gamification, video greetings upon entry, and live video streaming from a variety of sources. You can incorporate their internal meeting platform that WORKS, donation buttons that live right under your video player, sponsors booths that make partners feel valued, and much more! We shouldn’t officially have favorites, but it’s hard to beat the value and quality to cost ratio on this one.

DON’T: Jam pack your conference with wall-to-wall content.

DO: Create a well- crafted agenda that offers attendees a few different types of interactions throughout the day. Here’s what we often suggest:

• Try to give at least a 10 min break every hour! Allow your audience time to both interact with the environment you’ve built for them and step away to avoid burnout.

• Welcome attendees with a short session, around 5 minutes, at the start of each day. And yes, this can (and probably should) be pre-recorded!

• Make your keynote lecture the focus of the morning. Have your host or staff introduce and ask your guest to keep it around 30 minutes in length. Allot time at the end for Q&A if possible (that goes for all sessions) and remind your audience to submit!

• Think about how your content matches your streaming capabilities. Keynotes should be using a one-to-many platform, while workshops should be using meeting or conferencing platforms like Zoom or Teams to be as interactive as possible.

• Book a few FUN sessions! Think comedic magicians, cooking and cocktail classes, interactive games and other entertaining ways to learn, energize or unwind. We’ve seen conferences where they start every morning with some yoga or meditation and end the day with music and dancing!

• In addition to hourly breaks, provide designated time in the agenda for networking and visiting with sponsors/exhibitors.

• Record EVERYTHING and offer it to view On Demand as soon as possible, even if you plan to edit down the road. Attendees should be able to view what was missed within a couple of hours of each session ending.

DON’T: Ignore your sponsors and exhibitors. Just putting their logo on your site and emails will not give them the ROI they are looking for

DO: Prioritize sponsors in your VE planning and showcase exhibitors whenever possible

• If your event is sponsored, choose a platform that will allow you to create separate pages or “virtual booths” where they can showcase services, share assets and interact with audience members. A few platforms will also allow them to gain access to the contact details of attendees that have shown interest, allowing them to follow up!

• Have sponsors showcased at the start and end of live sessions. Show a short video they’ve submitted or a professional ad, display their logos, mention their contributions on-air, or even give them a few minutes of live speaking time!

• It’s been said before, but if often goes overlooked: Add time in your agenda that is specifically focused on getting attendees to visit the booths as opposed to use the bathroom, check Email or grab a sandwich.

• If you are on a platform that allows it, add sponsor and exhibitor goals using gamification tools. People will do a lot for a free t-shirt!

DON’T: Expect speakers to just “show-up” without prepping them.

DO: Always provide your speakers the time and space to get ready for your event!

• Touch base with your speakers around 5 business days prior to their session to review the technology you are using, set expectations and answer any questions they have!

• Get an extra copy of their (Final, hopefully!) presentations in case they have technical issues so you can share and advance on their behalf.

• Always hold a 30 min pre-conference prior to each session to give your speakers time to settle and troubleshoot any technical issues.

• Have a moderator in each session that can introduce speakers and assist in facilitating Q&A.

And lastly, DO have fun!

A well organized and produced virtual event can be a unique, impactful and memorable experience, in a way that even in-person events and conferences can’t quite replicate.

And if there’s anything you’re unsure about, reach out to our team and we will happily review your conference plan to set you up for virtual success!  

How to pre-record yourself for a virtual conference or webinar

Quick little video on how to pre-record yourself for a virtual meeting or event.

SET UP
* Webcam: we recommend using an HD quality webcam instead of the built-in SD camera on most computers
*Audio: do a quick recording and listen back to confirm audio sounds clear. If there are any issues switch to a headset or external microphone to improve the quality
*Lighting: all lighting should be in front of you (place behind the webcam)
*Framing: frame yourself so that you are centered with a little headroom and torso showing in the frame
 
DELIVERY
*Record yourself using Zoom, or paid versions of StreamYard or Restream for best quality.
* Provide video in a 16:9 ratio in an MP4 format
* Video should have a clean end and start
* Send your video to the organizers in early, we promise they will appreciate it greatly!

And don't forget to have some fun!

Avoiding Zoom Burnout and Other Virtual Event Tips!

LIVESTREAM - Avoiding Zoom Burnout and Other Virtual Event Tips! Virtual events are great to attend and to put on, as long as you and your audience aren't burned out on . . . virtual events.

How do you keep them interesting?

How do you deliver value? How do you avoid Zoom Burnout yourself?

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Vidwheel Creator Network Zoom Meetups are educational and networking events for those who want to grow their businesses through video. Twice a month, we invite industry experts to speak on our monthly theme and give our attendees a deeper understanding of some aspect of video as it relates to your business.

Find out more - https://vidwheel.com/creator-network/ And don't forget our nifty video resources page - https://vidwheel.com/video-resources/

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Meet the speaker - Julie Migliacci - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-migliacci-revent/