What is VOD?
VOD is an acronym for Video-on-Demand and refers to videos that can be accessed online as needed. VOD content is typically hosted on a digital platform or library and requires viewers to have a dedicated account to access streaming content. It could either be free and accessible by anyone or require users to purchase or rent the media content they wish to stream.
The most popular VOD streaming platforms are Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, HBO Max, and so on.
Advantages of VOD
- VOD differs from conventional broadcast channels such that you don't necessarily have to stream content at a scheduled time. You have access whenever you need it—so long as you have a compatible device, a stable internet connection, and in some cases, authorization.
- A major benefit of VOD for content creators is that it allows you to alter and optimize your content before publishing it. In the case of live streaming, you can not plan, shoot, edit, and perfect your video before launch, so you can't always deliver a professional, high-quality video experience to viewers.
Types of VOD Monetization Models
It would be best if you chose an appropriate content monetization model for the success of your video content based on your business, audience, and goals. There are three major buckets of VOD monetization—each of which has a different purpose:
- Subscription video on demand (SVOD): SVOD of subscription video-on-demand is not unlike cable television or satellite connections, which require a subscription fee for access to content—whether daily, weekly, monthly, or annually. SVOD is an apt monetization model for a host of content options—from movies and TV shows to educational or religious content.
- Advertising-based video on demand (AVOD): AVOD provides free access to a catalog of video content, but users must watch ads between video streams. AVOD pays content creators in terms of ad revenue rather than charging viewers a subscription fee. YouTube is the most popular AVOD platform known to content creators.
- Transactional video on demand (TVOD): TVOD is where users can choose to individually rent or purchase videos they wish to stream rather than paying for access to the entire library. TVOD is typically used in conjunction with SVOD, for instance, Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.