Live streaming has rapidly become an essential tool for businesses, educators, and content creators to reach and engage audiences in real-time. Each month, the Army hosts a monthly CoveTalk and Interserv helps to extend the reach of these events through live streaming. Last year, I started assisting in some of these sessions and during that time, learned three important lessons.
1. Preparation is key
A successful live stream relies on thorough preparation. This involves multiple facets:
- Technical setup
Know what equipment you’ll be using, how to set them up properly and test that the required technology is working properly prior to streaming. Also learn where all required equipment is stored and how they are stored – this can make a big difference and ensures a speedy set up and pack up post recording. - Task checklist
Have a checklist of items that need to be ticked off before and after the recording. This helps in making sure nothing is missed. - Team coordination
Understand your and your team member’s roles and responsibilities. Make sure everyone is on the same page regarding who is responsible for what task as this helps streamline the production process. - Talent preparation
Carve out time to give onscreen talent a run through of what to expect during the stream, any position markers they need to be aware of and ensure additional items they are bringing to the stream will work properly (e.g. PowerPoint slides etc). - Audience awareness
Similarly, make sure your audience is aware of how to interact with the stream. For example, how both online and live audiences can submit questions or engage with the streamers as well as any camera equipment or microphones they need to be mindful of so they don’t disturb the recording. - Expect the unexpected!
Due to the nature of live streaming, anything can happen. Be mentally prepared to work around any technical issues or unpredictable audiences.
2. Pre-empt technical issues
Technical issues can disrupt the flow of a live stream and lead to viewer dissatisfaction. While it’s impossible to predict whether they will happen, you can take actions to minimise risks:
- Backup systems
Have backup equipment and a secondary internet connection ready in case of technical failures. - Stable internet connection
Ensure a high-speed, stable internet connection to prevent buffering or disconnection issues. - Monitoring
Continuously monitor the live stream’s health and make real-time adjustments as necessary.
3. Strive for continuous improvement
Live streaming requires constant learning and adaptation. One important practice that I’ve appreciated doing at Interserv is conducting a Lesson Learned after each recording session. This allows all staff members to reflect on what went well, and what we need to change for the next live stream. Examples of improvements that came from a Lessons Learned include incorporating physical markers so that on-screen talent know where to stand during a recording session, working with on-screen talent to frame the cameras before a session and prepping the live audience before a recording so that they can interact with talent without disrupting a stream.
Live streaming production is a process that demands meticulous planning, technical expertise, and flexibility. Throughout my time as a Production Assistant in 2024, I’ve learned that we can deliver engaging and successful live streams by taking time to prepare before each session, actively learning from past experiences and continuously adapting to new challenges.
