Over-the-top (OTT) has become an increasingly popular term in recent years for its convenience, flexibility, and affordability. OTT platforms offer a wide range of content, including movies, TV shows, and original programming, which can be accessed on-demand from a variety of devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. 

So, what is OTT and what are OTT platforms? This blog post will help you answer those questions, leading you to the right choice of building an OTT platform. 

What is an OTT platform? 

OTT stands for “Over-The-Top.” It refers to a technology to deliver media content directly to viewers over the Internet without the need for traditional broadcast or cable television providers. OTT allows viewers to access and consume video content on various internet-connected devices. This advancement has opened up new opportunities for businesses to reach audiences through OTT advertising and content delivery. 

An OTT platform is a platform that delivers live or on-demand media content (video, audio, and more) to viewers through a range of devices. OTT platforms are designed to be accessible across different devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices, allowing viewers to enjoy their favorite content anytime and anywhere with an internet connection. The flexibility and convenience of OTT platforms have made them a popular choice for consumers seeking flexible and personalized video experiences. 

In the video streaming field, popular services include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, and Hulu. and YouTube.  

Key Features

Internet-Based Delivery

OTT platforms deliver content via the Internet, allowing users to stream media on devices like smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers. This flexibility allows viewers to enjoy their favorite content anytime and anywhere as long as they have access to the Internet. 

On-Demand Access

On OTT platforms, users can choose what they want to watch and when they want to watch it, which is impossible with traditional TV’s fixed broadcast schedules. These give them greater control over their entertainment experience. 

Diverse Content Libraries

OTT platforms often provide a diverse range of content, including movies, TV series, documentaries, live sports, original productions, and more. This variety ensures that viewers have access to a rich selection of entertainment choices. 

Personalized Viewing Experience

OTT platforms often use algorithms to analyze user preferences and viewing habits to provide personalized content recommendations, enhancing the viewing experience. This customization enhances the user experience and helps viewers discover new content they may enjoy. 

Subscription Models

OTT platforms typically offer flexible subscription plans that cater to different budgets and viewing preferences. Some operate on subscription-based models, where users pay a monthly fee for access to a library of content; while others offer free, ad-supported content. Viewers have the freedom to choose the platforms that best suit their needs, and they can cancel their subscriptions at any time. 

Different Types of OTT Platforms 

Different types of OTT platforms meet different business needs based on content delivery and audience engagement. There are 3 main types, including Video-on-Demand (VOD), Live Streaming, and Hybrid OTT platforms. 

Video-on-Demand (VOD) Platforms

VOD platforms allow users to access and watch content at their convenience. Users can choose from a library of pre-recorded videos, movies, and TV shows. VOD platforms are ideal for businesses with a substantial content library and are suited for services like streaming movies, TV series, educational content, and archives of past events. They provide flexibility for users to consume content on their schedule. 

Live Streaming Platforms

Live streaming platforms deliver content in real-time, allowing users to watch events as they happen. This includes live broadcasts, sports events, news, and live performances. Live streaming platforms are beneficial for businesses conducting live events, webinars, conferences, and product launches. They enable real-time engagement with the audience and are suitable for industries like gaming, sports, news, and live entertainment. 

Hybrid OTT Platforms

Hybrid OTT platforms combine elements of both VOD and live streaming, providing a mix of on-demand and live content. They are suitable for businesses with a diverse content strategy that includes both pre-recorded and live content. Hybrid OTT platforms are ideal for events that have a live component but can also be accessed later on-demand. They offer flexibility to satisfy various audience preferences. 

Choosing the right type of OTT platform depends on the specific goals and content strategy of the business. For example, a media company with a vast library of content may succeed with a VOD platform, while a business focused on real-time events might look for a live-streaming platform. 

Building Your Own OTT Video Platform vs. Using a Third-Party Service 

When deciding between building your own OTT platform and using a third-party service, there are several factors to consider, including your business goals, resources, and technical expertise. Here are some key considerations for both options: 

Building Your Own OTT Platform 

Customization and Control

Building your platform allows you to customize and control the features, design, and user experience. This is important if you have specific requirements or want a unique branding experience. 

Data Ownership

With a proprietary platform, you have full ownership of the data generated by your users. This provides valuable insights into user behavior, preferences, and engagement, which can be crucial for content optimization and business decisions.  

Scalability

Building your platform allows you to tailor it to your scalability needs. You have control over infrastructure scaling, ensuring that the platform can grow with your audience and content library.  

Monetization Flexibility

You have more flexibility in choosing and implementing monetization models, such as subscriptions, pay-per-view, or advertising. This gives you control over revenue streams and business strategies. 

Using a Third-Party Service 

Cost and Time Efficiency

Third-party services often provide ready-made solutions, saving you time and development costs. This is especially beneficial if you have budget constraints or need to launch your OTT service quickly.  

Technical Expertise

If you lack the technical expertise or resources to build and maintain a custom OTT platform, a third-party service can handle the technical aspects, allowing you to focus on content creation and business strategy.  

Various Feature Solutions

Third-party OTT services often come with feature-rich solutions, including analytics tools, monetization options, and content management systems. These features are continually updated and improved by the service provider, ensuring access to the latest technologies and functionalities. 

Infrastructure and Maintenance

Third-party services typically handle infrastructure, hosting, and maintenance. This reduces the burden on your team and ensures that the platform is updated and maintained regularly. 

The decision to create your own OTT platform or use a third-party service depends on your business’s specific needs. If you’re a small business or have specific requirements, building your own platform is recommended. This provides maximum control and scalability for future growth. However, if you have a limited budget or need to launch quickly, choosing a third-party service is a cost-effective and speedy solution. For large businesses with complex requirements, a hybrid model can be explored. This involves using third-party platforms for basic functionalities and incorporating custom-built elements to meet specific and nuanced needs. This approach ensures an efficient solution that combines the advantages of both options to best suit the unique demands of your enterprise. 

Creating an OTT platform with Dailymotion 

If you need to find a reliable OTT platform provider, Dailymotion is an ideal option for you. With our profession and enthusiasm, we ensure that you will have the best experience. Building an OTT platform with Dailymotion to try these special features: 

• Brand-centric white-label Video Player: Transform your digital space with our fully customizable white-label video player, creatively designed to embody your brand identity and seamlessly integrate into your website. 
• Cutting-edge technology across all devices: Elevate your streaming experience with Dailymotion’s OTT platform, offering cutting-edge technology supporting HTML5 and 4K quality across all devices. With adaptive streaming technology, both live streaming and video-on-demand experiences offer superior performance and reliability. 
• Seamless integration: Our OTT solution ensures seamless integration with APIs and SDKs, providing effortless customization options for any device or video type (OTT, SVOD, VOD). 
• Uncompromised privacy and security: Dailymotion’s OTT solution ensures privacy and security with features like geolocation-based access, GDPR compliance, and HLS encryption for content protection. 
• Flexible monetization options: Dailymotion offers versatile OTT monetization solutions to help you generate revenue from your videos. Whether you aim to monetize your content or utilize our video Player as a SaaS solution, we have you covered. 
• Unparalleled 24/7 services and support: We offer worldwide client assistance and professional services to streamline your OTT video integration and management processes, ultimately saving you valuable time and resources. 
• Advanced analytics insight: To empower your decision-making, our advanced analytics tools provide real-time insights, enabling you to track crucial metrics and monitor audience engagement, thus enhancing your OTT strategy and driving success. 

Here concludes our blog on Ultimate Guide: What are OTT Platforms. This guide explains what OTT platforms are and how they can help businesses succeed. By using OTT platforms, businesses can have more control over their brand, use different ways to make money, and get insights from data. It can help businesses improve their online presence, connect with people more efficiently, earn revenue, and keep up with the changes in how people consume digital content.  

With Dailymotion, you can create a reliable, secure, and flexible OTT platform that meets your needs and goals. You can also access exclusive features and benefits based on your plan, such as analytics, monetization, customization, and more. 

For an even more extensive experience, explore all of Dailymotion’s feature options based on your plan here.