The future of video content: Why online streaming is only going to get bigger
As video content becomes more and more popular, it's important for brands to understand the implications this has on their marketing strategies. Online streaming will only become more prevalent in the years to come, as network capacity continues to grow and mobile devices become even more sophisticated. This means that businesses need to start creating video content to stay ahead of the curve and connect with consumers on a deeper level.
A recent study by Short Stack looked at the rising trend of online video and how it is changing how we communicate. The study found that video is the most engaging content type online, with ever-increasing network capacity and improving mobile device functionality making it easier than ever to stream video content to people at all times, changing the way that we communicate, engage and interact.
The study also found that brands need to recognize this shift in consumer behaviour and adapt their marketing strategies accordingly. While you don’t have to have a video strategy, and for some businesses, it may seem like too much time and effort – and cost – to create video material, the fact of the matter is that content consumption behaviours have evolved, which means consumer expectations have also shifted, and video, for an increasing number of people, is the new norm. So if you want to stay ahead of the curve and keep your customers engaged, start thinking about how you can incorporate video into your marketing mix.
The trend of online videos is not only here to stay but will continue to grow at an alarming rate. Here are a few thoughts on why this is and what it means for businesses:
- Online streaming is more convenient than ever before. We can now watch videos on our phones, laptops, and even smart TVs. This convenience will only grow as technology improves.
- Video is more engaging than other forms of content. It captures our attention in a way that text or pictures cannot.
- Online video is changing the way we communicate. It allows us to connect with people all over the world in real-time.
What does this mean for businesses?
- Online video is no longer optional. If you want to stay ahead of the competition, you need to start creating video content.
- Video content needs to be high quality and engaging. Consumers have a lot of choices and will only watch videos that are well-made and interesting.
- You need to have a strategy. Don't just create random videos, but rather think about how video can be used to achieve your business goals.
The rise of new social media platforms with a focus on video content and the new features for the existing ones by focusing on short-form videos is further testament to this. If you’re not considering video, you’re missing out, and you need to consider the cost versus benefit of such, while newer devices and tools are now making it more accessible for everyone to create their own video material.
So how significant is the video shift?
That’s what the team from ShortStack have sought to outline with this new graphic, which provides an overview of general video consumption trends. Social media users are watching more videos than ever before, with platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram all reporting huge increases in watch time over the past few years. At the same time, influencer marketing is on the rise, with brands increasingly turning to social media personalities to promote their products and services.
There’s no doubt that video is a powerful marketing tool, but it’s also important to consider the cost of producing high-quality video content. With that in mind, businesses need to weigh up the benefit of investing in the video against the potential cost. But with newer devices and tools making it easier and more affordable to produce quality video content, there’s never been a better time to get started.
What are your thoughts on the future of video content? Are you considering incorporating video into your marketing mix? Let us know in the comments below.