Let me tell you about a recent experience I had when installing a new dishwasher. The manufacturer had gone the extra mile to make the installation process as easy as possible, providing QR codes in the documentation that linked to step-by-step video instructions.
But when I scanned the code, instead of being greeted with the help I needed, I was met with an ad—for a nude dating show. It was pretty unsettling.
I couldn’t tell if the appliance company was sponsoring the show or being sponsored by it. Either way, it didn’t sit well with me. After waiting for the ad to finish, I finally reached the instructional video.
Still, after I completed watching the instructions, I got more ads and unrelated video recommendations at the end of the video. Frustrating, right?
While public video platforms like YouTube are convenient and widely used, they come with pitfalls that can negatively impact user experience, especially in critical situations like installing a new appliance or following detailed instructions. In this article, we’ll explore why relying on YouTube for instructional video content might not be the best choice for your brand and how it can affect your customer relationships.
The importance of a seamless user experience
In today’s fast-paced world, users expect quick and straightforward access to information, especially when they are troubleshooting or fixing something. They don’t have time to waste on distractions, and every second counts when they’re dealing with a malfunctioning product. Delays, interruptions, or distractions in these moments can lead to frustration and, more importantly, a loss of trust in the brand providing the instructions.
Your customers look for professionalism when they watch your instructional videos. They expect content that’s straightforward, clear, and without distractions. They want to solve their problem without any interruptions. Ensuring a smooth experience is crucial for your brand.
The hidden pitfalls of public video platforms
The Problem with Ads
One of the biggest drawbacks of using public video platforms like YouTube for instructional content is the presence of adverts. While these platforms generate revenue through ads, they often disrupt the user’s focus, especially when the ads are irrelevant or intrusive. Sometimes, the ads might even harm your brand—imagine a competitor’s product being promoted before your instructional video. Not only does this distract from the message you’re trying to convey, but it also inadvertently promotes your competition.
And even if your customers don’t immediately see ads for competing products, you can bet they’re being tracked by Google’s sophisticated algorithms. Eventually, there is a possibility they will start receiving targeted ads and recommendations for competitor products, potentially leading them away from your brand.
Content Recommendations
After watching your instructional video on YouTube, users are often shown content recommendations. These recommendations can distract them from your brand’s intended message, pulling them toward irrelevant or even competing content. This dilutes your brand’s influence and can confuse your customers, tempting them to explore other options instead of focusing on the solution you provide.
Additionally, YouTube’s primary goal is to keep users on their platform for as long as possible. This often means pushing them towards content that may have nothing to do with your brand. The platform’s algorithms are designed to suggest engaging content, but this can lead your viewers away from your instructional video, potentially to a competitor’s content. This situation highlights why a dedicated video platform, one that fully supports your brand’s goals, is essential.
Brand Perception
These distractions can significantly impact brand perception. Users might question the professionalism of a company that relies on ad-supported platforms for their instructional content. They might wonder why the brand doesn’t provide a more controlled, professional environment for such important information. Over time, this can erode trust and damage the brand’s reputation.
The risks of losing control over your content
Lack of Control
When you use public platforms like YouTube, you often lose control over how your content is presented and what accompanies it. This lack of control can lead to situations where the user experience is compromised—something entirely out of your hands. For instance, the appearance of ads or unrelated content can create a disconnect between your brand and the user, leading to a fragmented and less effective communication strategy.
Protecting Brand Integrity
Maintaining brand integrity is crucial in today’s competitive market. Ensuring that all content provided to users is free from external influences that could harm your brand’s reputation is essential. When you lose control over your content, you risk undermining the very message you’re trying to communicate. It’s vital to ensure that your customers have a consistent and positive experience with your brand.
The Challenges of Keeping Content Updated
One often overlooked issue with public platforms like YouTube is the difficulty in updating or replacing videos. When product specifications change, logos are updated, or instructional content needs revisions, you might find yourself needing to create entirely new videos, which can be cumbersome and costly. Worse, outdated videos might continue circulating, leading to confusion or misuse. A dedicated video platform like Streamio allows you to update or replace videos seamlessly, ensuring your customers can always access the most current and accurate information.
The case for a dedicated video platform to publish instructional content
Alternatives exist where you can host your instructional content without the risks associated with public video platforms like YouTube. Dedicated platforms allow you to maintain control over the entire user experience, ensuring that your content is delivered professionally and uninterrupted.
Using a dedicated video platform allows you to create a controlled environment where you can manage every aspect of the user experience. This includes eliminating ads, preventing unrelated content from appearing, and ensuring that your message remains clear and consistent. Moreover, by hosting content on a dedicated platform, you can avoid giving away your customers’ personal data to third parties, protecting their privacy and maintaining brand integrity. In such an environment, your customers can focus entirely on the instructional content, leading to a more effective and satisfying experience.
Real-life impact – why it matters
User Trust
A seamless, distraction-free experience builds trust between your brand and your customers. When users feel supported and respected, they are more likely to return to your brand in the future. Trust is a critical component of customer loyalty, and providing a professional, ad-free environment for instructional content is a powerful way to cultivate it.
Brand Loyalty
Maintaining a high standard of user experience can lead to increased brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. When users know they can rely on your brand to deliver clear, concise, and uninterrupted content, they are more likely to choose you over others in the future. This loyalty can translate into repeat business, positive word-of-mouth, and long-term success.
Proposed solution
In a market as competitive as today’s, ensuring a professional and seamless video experience is absolutely crucial. Maintaining a quality standard over how your instructional content is delivered to users ensures that your brand’s message is communicated clearly and effectively without the risk of distractions or unwanted influences.
The next time you’re deciding on how to deliver your instructional content, think about this: Are you really giving your users the best possible experience? In a world where user experience can make or break a brand, it’s worth taking the extra steps to ensure that your content is delivered in the most effective way possible.
If you’re looking for a solution that offers complete control over your video content without the distractions of public platforms like YouTube, Streamio might be the right platform for your brand. With Streamio, you can host, stream, and publish your instructional videos in a secure, GDPR-compliant, and cookie-free environment tailored to your brand’s needs. Streamio allows you to deliver content that’s free from ads and unwanted recommendations, ensuring a seamless and professional user experience every time.
