We recommend Webex Events Production Studio as the simplest solution for producing professional quality live streams in your Webex Events App. However, these aren't a catch-all for every streaming need. If you want to use a streaming platform not officially supported by Webex Events, use multiple different platforms for a single stream, or want to stream meeting software like Webex directly to your Event App, then Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) is for you!
The Webex Events RTMP Player embeds a live stream into your Webex Event's Live Stream feature or Agenda Sessions with minimal setup.
Keep reading to learn more about what RTMP is, then read our article on how to use RTMP. 👍
What is RTMP?
Video production and broadcasting software lets content creators produce live streams and then send a video feed out to viewers. Many broadcasting software providers like YouTube and Twitch also include a place to host the stream for viewers. Other providers only supply the studio for producing the stream. That's where the Webex Events RTMP Player comes in.
Real-Time Messaging Protocol (RTMP) is a protocol for streaming content from one platform so it appears in another. All you need is a Stream Key and RTMP URL — no Application Program Interface (API) or integration work required!
The Webex Events RTMP Player provides a Stream Key and RTMP URL for each live stream. These tell your broadcast software where to send the video feed. Once you've entered the Key and URL into the broadcasting software, the Webex Events RTMP player maintains a constant connection. When you start the live stream in your broadcasting software, attendees can watch it in a Webex Events Live Stream feature or Session.
💡 Keep in mind, the RTMP Player is an additional cost add-on feature.
All this means that you have the flexibility to use nearly any platform that supports RTMP to stream content to your Webex Events App without requiring your attendees to open another tab or program! 😄
RTMP benefits and considerations
Benefits
Stream your content from nearly any platform that supports RTMP. Local streaming software like Wirecast and vMix, online streaming services like Twitch and YouTube, or even meeting software like Webex are all possibilities!
💡 Keep in mind, you should always test compatibility with any provider to ensure it works and to understand what attendees can expect.
Work with an agency or AV company for professionally-produced streams, even if they have their own proprietary streaming tech. Hiring an AV company is often necessary for Hybrid events.
Use Webex Events Chat, Q&A, Polling, and Captions solutions with the RTMP player and embed countless other sites like Slido using a Custom Tab.
RTMP opens the door for additional sponsorship opportunities. Incorporate sponsor commercials, branded banners, and other promotional materials from different sources.
Considerations
The RTMP Player is exactly that — a player that shows only what's being streamed from an outside source. You control commercials, overlays, interstitials, and other branding and production from your selected broadcast or meeting software. If you need recordings, make sure the AV company or software you're working with can provide them.
Selecting and coordinating your streaming solution is all up to you. Consider costs for the provider and/or production services and coordinating graphics, transitions, and overlays.
Implementing RTMP in your chosen broadcast software might get technical, depending on which one you select. Consider hiring an expert to help you run your streams and ensure smooth operation.
Implementing RTMP can be more expensive than Webex Events Production Studio if you're working with an AV company or using expensive software. Streaming platforms and meeting software may gate RTMP support behind paid tiers.
If RTMP seems like a good fit for you, read our article about streaming to Webex Events from Third-party Software with RTMP to get started!
Questions? Chat Us or Email support@socio.events