Streaming events: All the options, tips, and tools

Should you stream your event?
Livestreaming has become increasingly important in recent years and is now an indispensable part of digital communication and marketing. Whether conferences, concerts, corporate events, or private celebrations—streaming an event allows you to share it in real time with a global audience. In this article, we will take a closer look at the basics of livestreaming, the different types of content that can be streamed, and the numerous advantages this technology offers.

Livestreaming refers to the transmission of video and audio content in real time via the Internet. Unlike pre-recorded videos, livestreaming allows for immediate interaction with the audience, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. Viewers can react to events in real time, post comments, and ask questions that can be answered directly by the organizer or speaker.

5 advantages of livestreaming
Livestreaming offers a variety of advantages for event organizers and online audiences alike:

• Increased reach: Live streaming allows events to be made accessible to a global audience, regardless of geographical restrictions. This can be particularly beneficial for companies looking to increase their brand awareness.

• Interactive communication: The ability to interact with the audience in real time creates an interactive and engaging experience. Viewers can ask questions, participate in polls, and provide immediate feedback while companies stream their event.

• Cost efficiency: Live streaming can be a cost-effective alternative to physical events, as there are no travel expenses or venue rental fees. In addition, smaller companies and individuals with limited budgets can also stream their events live.

• Flexibility: Organizers can decide whether the livestream should be accessible to everyone or restricted to a specific target group. The choice of event platform and technical equipment also offers a wide range of options.

• Documentation and reuse: Livestreams can be recorded and reused later, whether for marketing purposes, training, or as archive material. This maximizes the benefit and reach of the event beyond the live moment.

Livestreaming is revolutionizing the way we experience and share events. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at the various aspects of livestreaming, from planning and technology to the best tools and event platforms available to you when you want to stream an event.

What events can be streamed live?
The range of content that can be streamed live is virtually unlimited. Here are a few examples:

• Conferences and seminars: Experts can broadcast their presentations and discussions live, reaching a wider audience without participants having to be physically present.

• Annual general meetings: Shareholders can follow the meetings and actively participate even if they cannot be there in person, which increases transparency and participation.

• Press events: Companies and organizations can broadcast important announcements and press conferences live to achieve immediate and widespread media attention.

• Other company events: Product presentations, company celebrations, and internal meetings can be streamed live to reach employees and customers alike.

• Music and cultural events: Concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events can be streamed live to reach fans worldwide.

• Sporting events: Live broadcasts of sporting events allow fans to follow the games in real time, no matter where they are.

• Private celebrations: Weddings, birthdays, and other personal events can be shared live with friends and family who cannot be there in person.

With the increasing popularity of live streaming, various formats have emerged, each with its own advantages and areas of application. Below, we provide an overview of the most common formats and explain their special features.

How do you want to stream your event? As a webinar, webcast, or hybrid event?

• Webinar: Webinars are interactive online seminars that are often used for educational or marketing purposes. They offer participants the opportunity to actively participate, for example through questions, surveys, or discussions. Webinars are ideal for training courses, workshops, and presentations where the focus is on interaction between the moderator and participants.

• Webcast: A webcast is a one-way transmission of content over the Internet, similar to a television broadcast. There is usually no direct interaction between the presenter and the viewers. Webcasts are often used to broadcast conferences, press conferences, or company announcements where the main purpose is to disseminate information.

• Hybrid event: Hybrid events combine physical events with virtual elements. Participants can either be present on site or follow the event online. These formats offer maximum flexibility and reach a wider audience, as they combine the advantages of face-to-face events with the reach of the internet. Hybrid events are ideal for conferences, trade fairs, and large corporate events.

Directing in the cloud: Controlling events remotely

Advancing digitalization is making it possible to increasingly shift the direction and control of events to the cloud. This offers numerous advantages and significantly expands the possibilities of livestreaming.

• Access from anywhere: With cloud-based control, event organizers can access event management from anywhere in the world. This reduces the need to be physically on site and enables flexible working. Teams can work remotely and still collaborate efficiently.

• Cost efficiency: Since streaming events does not require extensive hardware on site, the costs for technology and personnel can be significantly reduced. Cloud solutions offer scalable resources that can be adapted as needed, which is particularly advantageous for smaller companies and events.

• Real-time adjustments: Cloud-based systems enable real-time changes and adjustments during the event. Event managers can respond immediately to unexpected situations without the need for physical intervention. This ensures a smoother process and improves the experience for the audience.

• Integrated tools and features: Modern cloud platforms offer a variety of integrated tools, such as graphic overlays, video mixing, and multi-camera control. These features make it possible to create professional and engaging broadcasts without the need for complex and expensive equipment.

• Security and reliability: Cloud providers place great importance on security and offer robust solutions for protecting data and content. Redundant systems and automatic backups ensure that the event can continue smoothly even in the event of technical problems.

Cloud-based production is revolutionizing the way events are controlled and executed. It offers a flexible, cost-effective, and reliable solution for managing live streams and helps to ensure a high-quality, professional experience for the audience.

Choosing the right livestream platform is crucial to the success of your event. The selection ranges from free platforms, which are ideal for public streams, to professional service providers that offer comprehensive solutions and additional features. Here we look at some of the best options and highlight their advantages and disadvantages.

Free livestream platforms such as YouTube and Facebook have established themselves as extremely popular options, especially for public streams. These platforms offer a variety of advantages for streaming an event:

• YouTube: YouTube is one of the most widely used platforms for livestreaming. It offers a wide reach and is easy to use. Users can start livestreams directly on their channels without the need for additional software or hardware. YouTube also offers features such as live chat to encourage interaction with the audience. After the broadcast, the stream can be saved as a video on the channel and viewed again.

• Facebook: Facebook Live is another popular option for public livestreams. Since many people already use Facebook regularly, you can easily reach your existing network. Facebook Live also offers interaction options such as comments and reactions in real time. This platform is particularly useful for streaming events that rely on a social network and want to reach a wide audience.

Advantages of free platforms:
• Wide reach: Free platforms such as YouTube and Facebook have a huge user base, which significantly increases the potential reach of your stream.

• Easy to use: These platforms are user-friendly and do not require any special technical equipment.

• Interactivity: Features such as live chat and reactions enable direct interaction with the audience.

Disadvantages of free platforms:
• Limited control: Since the platforms are publicly accessible, organizers have less control over interaction with participants and monetization of their content.

• Advertising: Free platforms are often financed by advertising that can be displayed during the stream.

• Data protection: Public streams are accessible to everyone, which may not be suitable for all types of events.

For professional and business-critical events, it is advisable to hire a specialized livestream service provider. These service providers offer comprehensive solutions that go beyond the capabilities of free platforms.

• Technical expertise: Livestream service providers have the necessary know-how and equipment to produce high-quality streams. They take care of all technical aspects, including cameras, sound, lighting, and streaming software, so that event organizers can focus on the content while streaming their event.

• Adaptability: Professional service providers offer customized solutions that are tailored precisely to the requirements of the respective company. They can implement specific requests regarding branding, interactivity, and viewer experience.

• Reliability and support: A livestream service provider usually offers comprehensive support during the event. In the event of technical problems, a team is on hand to find immediate solutions and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

• Advanced features: Service providers often offer advanced features such as multi-camera setups, graphic overlays, real-time analytics, and integration with other event platforms. These features can significantly enhance the professionalism and impact of a stream.

• Data protection and security: Data protection is an important aspect for private or exclusive events. Professional service providers can offer protected streams that can only be viewed by authorized persons.

Advantages of a livestream service provider:
• Professional quality: High-quality production and technical perfection.

• Tailor-made solutions: Adaptation to specific requirements and branding.

• Technical support: Comprehensive support before, during, and after the event.

• Advanced features: Additional features and integration.

The services of a professional provider come with costs that can vary depending on the scope and requirements. However, the costs are usually worthwhile for companies, as livestream service providers offer professional quality and reliability that ensure broad reach and higher participant satisfaction. This often leads to better brand perception and higher conversion rates.

The choice between free platforms and a professional livestream service provider depends on the specific requirements of an event. While free platforms are ideal for public and less formal events, professional service providers offer the expertise and resources to produce your event at a professional level.

Important streaming features to look out for
Certain features and tools are crucial for a successful livestreaming experience. They help improve the quality of the stream and facilitate interactivity and follow-up when companies stream an event. Below, we look at some of the most important features that are essential for livestreaming.

Share presentations and screen content in livestreams
One of the most fundamental and important features in livestreaming is the ability to share presentations and screen content. This feature allows moderators to share their screens with the audience in real time, which is particularly useful in the following scenarios:

• Screen sharing: This feature allows presenters to share their entire screen or only specific windows with viewers. This is ideal for software demonstrations, live tutorials, or presenting data and reports.

• Presentation sharing: Direct integration of PowerPoint presentations or other presentation tools into the livestream enables visual content to be presented professionally and seamlessly. Viewers can follow the presentation in real time, which facilitates understanding and absorption of the information.

• Interactive elements: Some platforms offer interactive whiteboards that allow presenters to draw or take notes on their shared content in real time. This increases the interactivity and clarity of the presentation.

Recording and later publishing livestreams
The ability to record livestreams and publish them later is another essential feature that offers a wide range of benefits:

• Accessibility: Not all interested parties can be there live at the scheduled time. By recording the stream, organizers can make the event available later so that no one misses important content.

• Reuse: Recorded livestreams can be reused for various purposes, such as training, marketing material, or internal communication. Companies can extract parts of the stream and tailor them to specific target groups.

• Analysis and improvement: By analyzing the recordings, you can evaluate the quality and effectiveness of your livestreams and learn from them to improve future broadcasts. This way, you know which parts of the stream are particularly well received and which are less effective.

• Content backup: The recording also serves as a backup in case technical problems occur during the livestream. This way, you always have a complete version of the event at your fingertips.

Other important features when companies stream an event
In addition to screen and presentation sharing and recording, there are other features that are essential for a professional and engaging livestreaming experience:

• Interactive chats and Q&A: Live chats and question-and-answer sessions allow the audience to actively participate and interact with the moderators. These features promote engagement and make the event more dynamic.

• Graphic overlays and branding: Incorporating graphics, logos, and other visual elements helps to give the livestream a professional look and strengthen branding. These overlays can highlight information such as names, titles, or key points while companies stream their event.

• Multi-camera setups: Using multiple cameras offers different angles and perspectives, making the livestream more interesting and varied. This is particularly useful for large events such as conferences or concerts.

• Real-time analytics: Some platforms offer real-time analytics tools that allow you to monitor viewership, engagement, and other key metrics during the stream. This data helps you understand the interaction and adjust the stream accordingly.

• Access control: For private or exclusive events, it is important to control access. Features such as password protection, registration, and access codes ensure that only authorized persons can view the stream.

• Integration with social media: The ability to broadcast the livestream simultaneously on multiple platforms increases reach and visibility. Integration with social media allows event managers to reach a larger audience and encourage interaction.

Choosing the right streaming features depends on the specific requirements and goals of an event. By using the right tools and features, event organizers can create a high-quality, interactive, and successful livestreaming experience.

A successful livestream requires more than just a stable internet connection. From technical equipment to presentation, there are many factors that influence the quality of a stream. Here are some proven tips for improving quality while companies stream their events.

Pay attention to video and audio quality
The quality of video and audio is crucial to the viewer experience. Investing in a good camera and a high-quality microphone will pay off. Make sure the camera records in Full HD or higher and the microphone delivers clear, noise-free sound.

Optimal lighting for streaming
Good lighting can make the difference between a professional and an amateur stream. Use soft, diffused light to avoid shadows and overexposure. Ring lights or softboxes are particularly effective.

Eliminate background noise
Ensure that the environment is as quiet as possible. Close windows, turn off loud devices, and use a noise-canceling microphone to minimize background noise.

Check your upload speed
A fast and stable internet connection is essential. Check your upload speed and make sure it is at least 5 Mbps to ensure smooth streaming.

Appealing set design and appropriate background
An appealing set design and a tidy, thematically appropriate background contribute to professionalism. Avoid messy or distracting backgrounds and design your set to be appealing.

Confident appearance in front of the camera
A confident appearance in front of the camera conveys professionalism and captivates viewers. Practice your presentation, maintain eye contact with the camera, and speak clearly and distinctly.

Try multi-camera streaming
Multi-camera setups offer different angles and make the stream more dynamic. Switch between different camera angles to keep your online audience interested and better show important details.

Use pre-recorded videos
Integrate pre-recorded videos into your livestream to provide professional content and bridge breaks or transitions. This can be particularly useful when live demonstrations or additional information are required.

Interaction with the audience
Actively interact with your audience to increase engagement. Answer questions in real time, use polls, and respond to comments.

Have someone else manage your stream
A dedicated stream manager can solve technical problems and ensure that everything runs smoothly. This allows speakers to concentrate on their presentation while someone else takes care of the technology.

Monitor stream analytics
Use analytics tools to monitor the performance of your stream. Analyze viewership, engagement rates, and other key metrics to further optimize future event streaming.

Early marketing
A successful livestream event starts with an effective marketing plan. Promote your event early and regularly to reach a large audience. Collaborate with influencers and partners. Offer incentives such as exclusive content or contests to attract more viewers.

Announcements on social media
Use social media to announce your event and post regular updates. Create an event on LinkedIn or Facebook, post teaser videos, and use relevant hashtags before you stream an event.

Protect your viewers' privacy and comply with data protection regulations. Use secure event platforms and inform everyone about the data protection guidelines.

Regular livestreams
Regular livestreams help build a loyal viewer base. Schedule regular broadcast times and inform your audience in advance.

SEO-optimized titles and descriptions
Use SEO-optimized titles and descriptions to increase the discoverability of a livestream. Research relevant keywords and integrate them into your content.

Encourage your online audience to like and subscribe
Encourage your viewers to like the stream and subscribe to your company's channel. This helps increase your reach and build an engaged community.

A successful livestream requires careful planning and preparation. By following the tips above and continuously working to improve their technology and presentation, event managers can deliver high-quality livestreams that engage their audience and achieve their goals. Livestreaming offers a wide range of opportunities to share content and reach a broad audience—make the most of these opportunities.

Is livestreaming subject to a fee?
Livestreaming can be either subject to a fee or free of charge, depending on the platform used and specific requirements. Free platforms such as YouTube Live and Facebook Live offer basic streaming services, while specialized and professional software service providers such as Techcast offer fee-based options with advanced features.

What is a streaming event?
A streaming event is an event that is broadcast in real time over the Internet. Various types of content, such as conferences, concerts, sporting events, or private celebrations, can be streamed live to reach a global audience.

Which livestream provider is the best?
The best livestream provider depends on the specific requirements of the event. Comparison portals such as OMR Reviews allow you to compare different features and pricing models.

How can I live stream something?
To live stream something, you need a stable internet connection, a camera, a microphone, and an event platform that supports live streaming. Log in to the platform, set up your equipment, and start streaming using the tools provided by the platform.

How do you start a live event?
A live event starts with planning and preparing the content, selecting the right platform, and setting up the technical equipment. Before you start, you should run test runs to ensure that everything works smoothly.