Q&A With Ben Wayne: Web-Based Video Solutions Smaller Businesses Can Afford

Web Video: Options for the Smaller Business' Site

There is perhaps no more effective way to capture your customers' interest -- and generate real traffic -- than by playing video on your Web site. But the high cost of the infrastructure once meant that only large companies had the ability to benefit from Web-based video; smaller companies were left with the YouTube option. Recently, a number of companies have emerged to help small and midsize companies keep up with their larger competitors by hosting the videos. Smaller companies just have to cough up a monthly fee -- and get creative.

1. 
   Fliqz: The company provides a video solution to meet almost any budget. From a basic video player on your Web site to custom screens to custom sizes to playlist options, it all depends upon how much you want to spend. The company's emphasis is on plug and play, meaning it does the heavy lifting. Plans start at $50 a month.
2. 
   UpStream Networks: For smaller businesses that want streaming video of live or pre-recorded events on their Web site but don't have deep pockets, UpStream's pay-as-you-go pricing plan will be appealing, and its services can scale up as your smaller business grows. The company offers a choice of Flash, Windows Live, or Windows on demand, and the company says it has 24/7 assistance. There is flexibility within plans, depending on your business' needs and budget and its customers use the service for things like virtual tours and promotional videos. Plans start at $39 a month.
3. 
   Stream Hoster: Stream Hoster provides the smaller business with Windows Media and QuickTime streaming video hosting accounts, event streaming, and encoding services. Their accounts are flexible, and fairly large, considering the price, and the services are geared toward the smaller video professional. Plans start at $15 a month and a Web-site hosting option is available for $9.95 a month
4. 
   Onstream Media: Onstream is not solely geared to the smaller business but with plans that start at $99 a month to put videos on your Web site, your business might be interested in what this provider has to offer. The service allows Web sites to store, manage, and publish its digital media and among its features are Webcasting, Web conferencing, Webinars, and integrated video services. This is for the midsize business that is not necessarily tech savvy but wants more-sophisticated media management.

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