Live video streaming is gaining popularity, especially in the app department, or store. More people are finding ways to include others into their current activities. Whether you're out having fun, participating in a meeting or speaking at a conference, there's an option for you.
Currently, there are three main live video streaming apps: Blab, Periscope and Meerkat. Perhaps you've heard of one or all of these? Periscope and Meerkat are very similar in both are great for live streaming any event. The two biggest differences are 1) Periscope is owned by Twitter so it's easy to communicate to your Twitter followes when you start a live stream and 2) Periscope saves your video for 24 hours whereas Meerkat only allows for the live event then the viewing is over. Blab is different in that it allows up to four people to interact or collaberate at the same time while a live and engaging chat stream happens.
So, how do you determine which app to use? I'm a fan of "keeping the end in mind" when making decisions (quoting Steve Covey). Let's take a look at a few things:
Goals. What are you trying to accomplish? Do you want to engage with people at a conference or event you're hosting? Or are you streaming a sporting event for a family member who couldn't attend?
Viewing. Who is your target audience? Is this a one-time viewing opportunity or do you want to save for later viewing? Is it a share now and discuss later opportunity?
Engaging. How can you maximize the opportunity? Are you wanting to gain feedback on a product release? Do you want to talk with customers at a live event after a keynote speaker presents industry insights, trends and projections? What will you do with the information?
As with any platform, it's important to ask "what purpose will this serve?" and "what problem will I help solve?" With your answers, you will know which live video streaming option is best for you. Keep in mind it might be a combination.