Full disclosure: In case you did not know, I work for a streaming company that serves churches. There have been many times where a leader from a church has called me with regrets about a streaming company they chose because they did not ask the right questions before they signed up. If your church is considering a switch to a new streaming video provider, it’s a big decision—one that impacts your ability to connect with your community, both near and far.
But with many options out there, how do you choose the right fit? It’s not just about the cheapest plan or the biggest name. It’s about finding a partner that truly serves your ministry’s unique needs. Here’s a guide to what your church should look for when making the switch.
1. Know Thyself (and Thy Ministry)
Before you even start looking at new platforms, take a moment to assess your current situation and future goals.
- Audience: How many people are you currently streaming to? Do you expect that number to grow? A small church with a few dozen online viewers has different needs than a megachurch with a global audience.
- Team Expertise: Is your streaming team a group of dedicated tech volunteers or paid professionals? Look for a platform with an intuitive dashboard and clear instructions if your team’s technical expertise is limited.
- Ministry Goals: What is the purpose of your streaming? Is it just for live services, or do you need to offer on-demand content, online classes, or special events? Look for features that align with your vision.
2. Reliability is Non-Negotiable
Nothing is more distracting for an online worshipper than a buffering video or an audio sync issue. Your streaming platform needs to be rock-solid, especially during peak service times.
- Uptime Guarantees: Look for services that promise high uptime—99.9% or better is a good benchmark.
- Resilient Technology: Some platforms use technology designed to keep streams steady even when internet connections are a little shaky. This can be a lifesaver. Ask about ABR, Adaptive Bitrate Streaming. It’s a fundamental technology that has revolutionized how video is delivered over the internet, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience for everyone, regardless of their internet connection speed or device.
- Scalability: Can the platform handle a sudden surge in viewers without compromising quality? Ensure your new provider can support your ministry’s growth.
3. The Feature Checklist: What Really Matters?
Beyond a basic stream, the right platform offers features that enhance your ministry and your congregation’s experience.
- Live Engagement Tools: Do you want to host live chats, Q&As, or prayer requests during your service? Features that encourage real-time interaction can transform a passive viewing experience into an active community.
- Giving Integration: Can your viewers give digitally without leaving the live stream? A seamless giving process is crucial for online tithing.
- On-Demand Content: If you plan to archive your sermons or other video content, make sure the platform provides easy-to-use video hosting and a clean, organized content management system.
- Multi-Platform Streaming: Do you want to stream to your website, your church’s app, and social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube all at once? This “multistreaming” capability can significantly expand your reach.
- Branding and Customization: Can you customize the video player with your church’s logo and colors? A white-labeled player offers a more professional and integrated experience for your viewers.
- Analytics Tools: Analytics are an incredibly important feature for a church’s streaming video because they move the conversation beyond simply “how many people watched?” and provide valuable, actionable insights that can help a ministry grow and be more effective.
- Customer Service: Excellent customer service from a streaming video company is critical for a church’s ministry. While the church itself operates with a different mission than a business, the principles of reliable support are exactly the same. When a church’s streaming service fails, it’s not just a commercial transaction that’s impacted—it’s a ministry’s ability to connect with its congregation and reach new people.
4. Don’t Forget About the Fine Print
Making a switch isn’t just about the new company; it’s also about a smooth exit from your current one.
- Data Portability: Before you cancel, make sure you can easily download all your past videos and analytics data. Don’t let your valuable content get lost in the transition.
- Contracts and Pricing: Read the contracts carefully. Are there hidden fees? Does the price scale with your viewership, or is it a flat rate? Ask about non-profit discounts or special pricing for churches.
- Customer Support: When a technical issue pops up on Sunday morning, you need fast, reliable help. Check for providers that offer 24/7 support via phone or live chat, not just an email form.
Switching streaming companies can feel daunting, but with a clear understanding of your needs and a focus on these key areas, you can find a platform that not only meets your current requirements but also helps your online ministry thrive for years to come. StreamingChurch.tv understands ministry because our staff has been involved in serving their local churches for many years. Questions? Reach out to us with no obligation, visit StreamingChurch.tv today.