How can you improve video encoding and decoding for better UX?

1 Choose the right codec

A codec is a software or hardware tool that compresses and decompresses video data. Different codecs have different strengths and weaknesses, such as file size, quality, compatibility, and performance. You should choose a codec that suits your video content, target devices, and delivery platforms. For example, if you want to stream live video, you might use a codec that supports low latency and adaptive bitrate, such as H.264 or VP9. If you want to store video for offline viewing, you might use a codec that offers high compression and quality, such as HEVC or AV1.

2 Adjust the bitrate and resolution

The bitrate and resolution of your video affect the quality and size of your output. Higher bitrate and resolution mean higher quality, but also higher bandwidth consumption and storage requirements. Lower bitrate and resolution mean lower quality, but also lower bandwidth consumption and storage requirements. You should adjust the bitrate and resolution of your video according to your content, audience, and delivery method. For example, if you have a fast-moving or complex video, you might need a higher bitrate and resolution to preserve the details and avoid artifacts. If you have a slow-moving or simple video, you might lower the bitrate and resolution to save bandwidth and storage.

3 Use adaptive streaming

Adaptive streaming is a technique that dynamically adjusts the bitrate and resolution of your video based on the network conditions and device capabilities of your users. This way, you can deliver the best possible video quality without buffering or stuttering. Adaptive streaming requires you to encode your video into multiple versions with different bitrates and resolutions, and then use a manifest file to tell the player which version to choose. There are different standards for adaptive streaming, such as HLS, DASH, and CMAF. You should use the one that is compatible with your target devices and platforms.

4 Test and monitor your video

Before you publish your video, you should test and monitor its encoding and decoding performance and quality. You can use various tools and metrics to evaluate your video, such as bitrate, resolution, frame rate, latency, buffer rate, playback errors, and quality scores. You should also test your video on different devices, browsers, and networks to ensure its compatibility and usability. You should collect feedback from your users and analyze their behavior and satisfaction with your video. You should use this data to optimize your video encoding and decoding for better UX.

5 Keep up with the trends

Video encoding and decoding are constantly evolving with new technologies, standards, and innovations. You should keep up with the trends and developments in the video industry and learn from the best practices of other video creators and providers. You should also experiment with new codecs, formats, features, and techniques that can improve your video encoding and decoding for better UX. You should be open to change and adapt to the changing needs and expectations of your users.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?