VOD: The Complete Guide

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There are a lot of abbreviations in the English language these days. Have you ever heard the term “VOD” used and wondered, “what does vod stand for?”

If you have asked this question, you are not alone. VOD stands for “video on demand” and actually accounts for something that the majority of us do at least one-third of the time when on a digital device.

Video content has captured the world’s attention. In fact, video is the primary focus these days because that is what is now getting the most engagement—especially in the online world.

Producing video content can help brands grow their reputation and audiences, get important messaging out there, and also become more profitable.

That is why we have put together the ultimate guide around what VOD is and everything you need to know about it.

Defining VOD

The term “video on demand” can seem quite broad. And it is in reality! It is a streaming method that people can use to access instant video content whenever they want. It means that all someone has to do is log onto the internet and select a video that captures their interest.

VOD is distributed to online users through innovative technology, which means that the video content is no longer reliant on simple broadcast methods anymore. Instead, it can be streamed directly on a computer, tablet, or even mobile phone.

VOD is changing the entertainment industry and the way in which people seek entertainment and education.

How Do People Use VOD

The range in which people use VOD content can vary. For some, it is an actual business need that allows for training, marketing, and product demos to be easily accessed both internally and to relevant external stakeholders.

Another important use is education. With virtual learning growing in demand, VOD enables students of all ages to get access to lessons, tutorials, and courses that they need to progress their studies.

Of course, VOD is also used for entertainment as well. From meditations and workout classes to concerts and cooking classes, there will be VOD that appeals to every type of person.

Platforms for VOD

There are also numerous ways for people to host their videos on demand—with options for both free and subscription-based platform use.

Some of the most popular VOD platforms include the likes of YouTube, which has enabled anyone in the world to be a video content creator. But because it is free, there will be limitations on how they can be used. This includes the likelihood that third-party branding will become a focus of your VOD. You will also have to follow the platform’s general rules on what type of content can be published.

When you pay for VOD platforms though, you will be given a lot more support and given more control over your VOD creation and sharing experience. This includes getting support on how you can customize your brand, the protection of ownership, and a clear pathway on how to monetize your VOD success.

How to Make Money from VOD

One of the main reasons that VOD has taken off lately is because there is a lot of money to be made from it. The ways in which you can monetize your VOD come down to three different categories.

1. Transactional VOD

This option is when people will need to pay first to view an individual piece of content. This is a very common method with platforms that allow you to rent an individual movie without having to sign up for a month-to-month subscription.

2. Subscription VOD

Then there is the subscription-based VOD options. This is what has recently taken over, with the likes of Disney Plus, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and more all require subscriptions before getting access to their extensive libraries of VOD. These subscriptions are usually charged month to month and also offer a free trial first.

3. Advertising-Based VOD

This is something that is very popular on the likes of YouTube. When you allow for affiliate ads or links to be associated with your video content, you can end up making money when someone clicks through on it.

VOD Case Studies

There is a whole range of interesting case studies to take note of when it comes to VOD. Some of the most successful have been the likes of on-demand video businesses like Netflix, which have changed the game in how people both view and create content.

But not all VOD businesses use the same business model. Some still rely on advertisers. Others rely on subscriptions. At the end of the day, it all comes down to making an individual decision on what makes the most sense for a specific business and who its intended audiences are.

Conclusion

VOD has changed the game when it comes to video creation, hosting, and streaming.

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