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05.17.06
Amanda Congdon On Syndicating Videoblogs
 By
David A. Utter
At a Syndicate Conference keynote talk by Rocketboom's host, Congdon noted how blogging in general bypasses syndication. That works, though, because aggregation of her vlogs by viewers amounts to syndication anyway.
Aggregation makes more sense to Amanda Congdon when she thinks of syndication, the Rocketboom host and co-writer/co-owner said at Syndicate. Our publisher Rich Ord passed along his notes on her keynote chat, "Filmmakers, You Now Have Options."
Video blogs shouldn't be called "Internet TV"; Congdon said that completely devalues them. "They are a totally unique video experience, usually more casual."
In the self-publishing model of video blogging, as Rocketboom does, Congdon noted that "producers can finally keep their integrity as human beings." She illustrated some steps in a Self-Publishing Business Model that can help those video bloggers achieve a measure of success.
Video advertising, as other sessions have observed, is really just getting started. Congdon said Rocketboom just put up a sponsorship page with rates for advertising on their episodes.
Unlike most video advertising, Rocketboom's ad options are post-roll only, while most online videos that carry advertising deliver it pre-roll.
"We are charging on a flat fee basis," Congdon said. "Our prices are significantly lower to help small businesses advertise." She said niche ads can probably make the most money for video bloggers.
After video ads, Congdon suggested other options within the self-publishing model. Subscriptions, pay-per-view, merchandising (Rocketboom offers t-shirts for example), and consulting can provide a means to support ongoing production of those video blogs.
Although Congdon is the star of the 3-minute show each weekday, it is Rocketboom's followers that help program it. About 30 percent of Rocketboom content comes from viewers submitting videos to the site.
Growing Rocketboom means they will likely expand the number of correspondents they have now; currently they have eleven. They may introduce a subscription service for premium content on the site too.
Congdon also noted that the fly-around-the-chair stunts Rocketboom does end up leaving her with a bruise every time.
About the Author:
David Utter is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business. |
