I’m always looking for ways to make my site stand out.
So for the past month, I’ve been researching software that will allow me to create screencast tutorials for my website.
In case you’re unaware, screencasting is the process of recording actions on your computer screen and publishing the recording in a video format.
Since I have a site that teaches people how to create and manage their websites, I figured this could go over well with my audience.
I’ve even received a few emails requesting this.
Not only is screencasting great for teaching, but if you happen to promote any kind of computer-based product on your site, you can demonstrate it and publish the video for your audience to preview.
I did this for Site Build It!. Using a screencast video, I walk my visitor through my personal SBI! account so they can see how it works.
Check out my SBI! screencast video here.
Not only does the video provide an in-depth preview of the product, but it helps build credibility because I am showing how I use the product. I even let you take a peek at my traffic stats.
Choosing Screencasting Software
The first software I tried was Camstudio. Even though it’s free and easy to use, you definitely get what don’t pay for.
I knew that if I wanted my videos to look professional, I needed to invest in more advanced software. So I downloaded Camtasia. They offer a free, 30-day trial.
Some companies only let you use a limited version of their software when they offer a free trial, but the folks over at TechSmith let you demo the full version.
I was so pleased with Camtasia’s ease of use and range of options that I purchased a license after only one day of using it.
If $299 is too steep for your budget, there are a variety of other solutions. As I mentioned earlier, you can try Camstudio (free) and this blog has a nice review of other software options.
Don’t forget you can try Camtasia for for 30 days at no charge, so why not create as many videos as you can in that 30-day trial period!
Publishing is a Snap
With Camtasia, you can create a video for a variety of media – the web, iPod, blog, or a CD.
And what’s even better is Camtasia provides you with the HTML code you need to paste into your blog or web page.
All you do is upload the video file to your web server, paste the provided code into your page and you’re video is ready for viewing.
You can also choose from a variety of video file formats – SWF (Flash), WMV, AVI, etc.
How Can You Use Screencasting?
You don’t have to have a site about web development to take advantage of screencasting.
Let’s say your site teaches people about financial planning. You could walk your visitor through the process of using QuickBooks or some other financial software.
Or if you have a site that offers advice on public speaking or giving presentations, you can show them how to create the perfect PowerPoint presentation.
The possibilities are endless, and if you put some thought into this, I bet you can come up with a way to make this work for your audience.
Remember, most sites still do not use video, so if you can be one of the few in your niche, you can really get a leg up on your competition.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
So I clicked the Camstudio link above and it took me to a page that was very cleverly monetized for Adsense earnings. I hope they don’t get banned from Google for having an Adsense ad next to a photograph. I looked for the correct place to download Camstudio and finally settled for something else, I clicked the ad in frustration.
Maybe when I get an extra $300 I’ll go for the good one.
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Lisa, I appreciate this so much! You did an amazing job on this screen shot and tutorial! A few things, if that’s ok: 1. 10:25 Value Exchange also includes other website participants who do not own SBI sites. This looks nicer to Google and looks less like we are exchanging links with the same ‘hosting block’. I’ve several notices from VE from sites that have joined that are not SBI customers. I also refer my clients (both SBI!ers and non-SBI!ers to using the VE when appropriate. 2. 9:03 Your stats are AMAZING! Thank you tons for sharing your traffic stats – so very inspiring. and lastly, 3. It may just be my browser – FF, but after 13:30 and on, the screen was no longer pleasant and it was chopped up and not really viewable. Could be glitch on this end, but just wanted to give you a heads up.
Again, thank you for tellin’ it all straight-forward!
I have been thinking about doing screencasts since my blog is dedicated to computers. I have heard of Camtasia years ago, but have yet to try it out.
I’ll have to take a look at the 30-day trial and create at least one video to see what it is like. I’m sure it would add a whole new dimension to my blog.
Paul, they would be perfect for your site since you have so many “how to” blog posts related to computers, Internet, etc. I bet your audience would love it. I think it’s great they give you a full 30-day trial. The only feature they turn off in the trial is the ability to extend the length of any pop-up messages (or notes) that you want to add to your screencast. I thought something was wrong at first, but after I bought the full version I was able to adjust the length of any notes I wanted to add.
RJ, I ran the tutorial on 3-4 different computers and it ran smoothly so I’m guessing it had something to do with the file loading on your computer. It’s a pretty big Flash file so I wouldn’t be surprised if it hiccupped a time or two. Thanks for letting me know. (Sorry for the late reply.)
Hi Lisa. Nice screencast. You’re right on the money with your argument for CamTasia – you definitely do get what you pay for. For professional screencasting I can’t stress enough the need to use good tools (and good audio hardware!). The recording and *editing* tools are excellent time-savers.
CamStudio is free but isn’t much use for commercial demos (but is great for low-key demos and internal use), the lack of free editing tools is also a right pain (VirtualDubMod can be useful but is pretty limited).
ShowMeDo has lots of example screencasts for different screencast tools which readers might find useful:
http://showmedo.com/videos/screencasting
Regards,
Ian (Professional Screencaster)