How to be a Streaming Engineer for Happily Virtual Events
We've got 5 things you need to know about being a streaming engineer, featuring one of our own Happily specialists.
Here is a quick breakdown:
Event Role: Streaming Engineer
Team Happily Responsibility: Manage streaming keys and integrations, inset all assets and brand wrappers into the broadcast stream
Happily Studio: Technical
Happily Team: Broadcast
Discover the basics as well as some pro tips about being a streaming engineer from Luke, a Happily specialist
1. Are there varying types of streaming engineer roles?
Depending on the event and the requirements, streaming engineers could be in charge of the main broadcast, or simply a breakout room.
2. Being detail-oriented is a must-have skill
As you are responsible for building and giving life to an event, so many of the tiny little details are in your hands, and it could mean make or break to the success of the event. From the correct Zoom settings, the video quality, audio sync with the livestream, and the exact timing of all the motion graphics, videos, presenters ect. into the broadcast. Every little detail needs to be checked, and then checked again.
3. Pro tip: Have (very) fast internet
We recommend an ethernet connection (not wifi) to maintain a steady bitrate throughout the livestream. A 'bitrate' is the quality of the video and/or audio being uploaded to the chosen platform, and it is so important. Your internet speed will determine what bitrate options you have. Platforms such as Ookla Speed Test will tell you what your current internet speed is.
4. Pro tip: Have a desktop computer
Streaming through OBS is resource-intensive, and can be really hard work for a computer, or laptop. If your computer crashes, that would be disastrous for the live event. So, having a reliable desktop computer that can easily handle a complicated livestream with multiple programs running is e-ssen-tial.
5. Pro tip: Know the ROS like the back of your hand
The ROS (run of show) is basically your step-by-step, second-by-second manual of the livestream, and is your everything. In broad terms, your job is to follow the ROS to the T, and bring it to life. So, knowing, studying, clarifying and asking questions about the ROS of the event is crucial as a streaming engineer.