How to Choose the Best Video-On-Demand Platform for Your Content

What most businesses don’t realise is: 

Investing in creating high-resolution video content will not help you monetize or keep users engaged until you find the best video-on-demand platform. 

Why? 

Around 26% of users binge-watch at least once a week. They’re no longer waiting for scheduled broadcasts—they want content on their terms. 

• The popularity of streaming has surpassed TV usage by 36%, both cable and broadcast. 
• The video streaming subscription has grown from 1.1 billion in 2020 to 1.8 billion in 2025. 

The worst part is that if users don’t get past streams whenever they want, they will lose viewers. That’s where video distribution platforms come—your ticket to keeping viewers glued in on demand.

Businesses are tapping into Video-on-Demand (VOD) to connect with customers and boost their operations. Whether offering on-demand tutorials, showcasing product demos, or hosting live webinars, VOD makes engaging and informing your audience easy. 

In this blog, you’ll discover: 

• Platform Evaluation Framework
• Step-by-Step Guide for selecting a VOD platform 

What is a video-on-demand service?

VOD services allow your users to watch video content from anywhere and at any time on online platforms. Unlike scheduled streaming, they can access past streams at any time. 

However, you can also convert live streams into VOD content for later viewing. In today’s digital streaming, audiences expect video libraries to offer easy, on-demand access to a wide range of content. Here are some of the key features of a VOD streaming platform. 

1. Content Library
2. Multiplatform Access
3. Personalized Recommendations
4. Subscription Models
5. High-Quality Streaming
6. Content Protection (DRM)

Business Use Cases for Video-on-Demand (VOD)

Let’s talk about how businesses can benefit from using a VOD platform. Whether it’s training employees, engaging customers, or expanding reach, VOD offers plenty of opportunities to enhance your business operations. Here’s how.

• Employee Training and Onboarding

Companies create VOD libraries to train new employees and offer ongoing development. These videos cover everything from company policies to technical skills, allowing employees to learn at their own pace.

• Customer Support and Education

Software companies provide VOD tutorials, how-to guides, and troubleshooting videos, enabling customers to solve common issues independently without needing to contact support.

• Webinars and Live Streaming for Engagement

Businesses host live webinars and events through VOD platforms, engaging customers in real time. They record these sessions and make them available on-demand for later viewing.

• Real Estate Virtual Tours

Real estate companies offer virtual property tours through VOD, letting potential buyers explore homes, apartments, or commercial spaces remotely, without an in-person visit.

• Corporate Event Streaming

Companies stream conferences, product launches, or trade shows via VOD, allowing attendees to watch the event live or catch up on key moments afterwards.

• Customer Engagement via Virtual Experiences

Tourism businesses provide virtual tours of destinations through VOD, helping customers explore places before booking their trips. This interactive experience supports their decision-making process.

Best Monetization Options for Your Business Model?

The monetization options of this platform are crucial while making the decision about the best video-on-demand platform. For both the businesses as well as the users, one of the most important factors is the pricing plans. 

There are four types of monetization plans commonly available: SVOD, TVOD, AVOD, and hybrid models. Let’s understand these options. 

• Subscription Video On Demand:

In SVOD, your viewers pay a recurring subscription fee to access the content library. This is often billed monthly or annually. Examples are Udemy, Coursera, Skillshare

• Transactional Video On Demand:

In TVOD, the user is charged per video, which is also known as pay-per-video. Examples: Vimeo OTT, Watchity

• Ad-Supported Video On Demand:

In AVOD, Content is provided for free to users, but it is monetized through advertisements that viewers watch during content playback. Example: YouTube, Dailymotion

• Hybrid Models:

A combination of two or more monetization strategies. For instance, a platform might offer both SVOD and AVOD, where users can choose to subscribe or watch ad-supported content for free. 

Key Criteria for Evaluating VOD Service Providers

When deciding which video-on-demand platform is best, you should consider some key factors that need to be considered and compared among different VOD platforms. Here are some of the factors:

1. Platform features 
2. Pricing & value
3. Device reach & quality 
4. Customization & branding 
5. Security & content protection 
6. Analytics & reporting 

Here’s a simple framework to help you compare different platforms based on the most important factors:

• Platform Features

Look for features that support the type of content you’re offering (movies, live events, etc.) and that can scale with your audience size. Make sure the platform supports your preferred monetization model (SVOD, TVOD, AVOD, or hybrid).

• Pricing & Value

Understand all the costs involved, from upfront fees to hidden costs like licensing or transaction fees. Don’t forget to look for any unexpected charges that might pop up later.

Consider how the platform adapts to your growth. If your audience expands, will the pricing stay reasonable? Also, check if the platform offers feature upgrades that can be added as you scale without breaking the bank.

• Device Reach & Quality

Make sure the platform supports all the devices your viewers use (smartphones, smart TVs, desktops, tablets, etc.). This is key for reaching as many people as possible.

Also, streaming quality matters. The platform should support HD or even 4K streaming and optimize playback on all devices. The goal is smooth viewing with no annoying buffering, no matter the device.

• Customization & Branding

You’ll want a platform that lets you customize the user interface (UI) to match your brand’s look and feel. Things like color schemes, layouts, and easy navigation can help create a better user experience.

If you need full control over branding, look for a white-label solution. This means you can remove the platform’s branding and make the whole experience uniquely yours.

• Security & Content Protection

DRM keeps your content protected from unauthorized distribution. It’s a must-have for preserving your intellectual property. And the platform should allow you to block content based on location. This can help control where and when your content is available.

• Analytics & Reporting

You need robust analytics tools to track how your viewers are interacting with your content. The platform should help you understand viewer engagement, behavior, and sales so you can optimize your offerings.

• Monetization Options

Check if the platform supports your revenue model—whether it’s subscription-based (SVOD), pay-per-view (TVOD), ad-supported (AVOD), or a hybrid approach. The platform should offer tools to manage payments, ads, and subscriptions easily.

Video-on-Demand Platform Evaluation Checklist

Step-by-Step Approach to Choosing the Best VOD Platform

Now that you know the key features and monetization options of a video-on-demand platform, let’s understand which features and options suit your business.

So here is a step-by-step, detailed guide for selecting the best video-on-demand platform.

Step 1: Define Your Business Needs

Start by thinking about your content. What kind of videos are you offering—courses, seminars, video tutorials, live events, or something else? Knowing this will help narrow down your options. Then, consider your revenue model. Do you want a subscription service, pay-per-view, ad-supported model, or a mix? This step sets the foundation for everything else.

Step 2: List Your “Must-Have” Features

What features do you absolutely need? Make a list of things like custom branding, content security, analytics tools, and device compatibility. These features should be non-negotiable and tailored to your business goals.

Step 3: Evaluate the Platform’s Cost Structure

Understanding the full cost of a platform is crucial. Look beyond the monthly fees and consider any hidden costs like licensing, transaction fees, or extra charges for features. Also, check if the pricing scales with your growth, so you’re not hit with surprise costs later on.

Step 4: Test User Experience

Request a demo or trial to get a feel for the platform’s user interface. Does it make it easy for your audience to find and watch content? Test its usability across different devices to ensure a smooth viewing experience.

Step 5: Evaluate Technical Flexibility & Integrations

The best video-on-demand platform should integrate well with your existing tools—whether that’s payment gateways, CRM systems, or analytics software. Also, check if it’s customizable for mobile apps and web platforms, as flexibility will help you grow.

Step 6: Review Customer Support & Documentation

Good customer support is a must. Check if the platform offers 24/7 support and if there are clear documentation and guides. A responsive support team and active user community can save you time and hassle.

Step 7: Make Your Final Decision Based on Trial & Demos

After testing out the platform, compare your top choices. Use free trials to evaluate key features and performance to see which platform meets your expectations and business goals.

Finding the right video-on-demand platform for your business can be a daunting task, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. When it comes to reliable and scalable solutions, Scalevista stands out as best video-on-demand platform. With its robust features and seamless integration, Scalevista ensures you deliver a superior streaming experience for your audience.

Why Choose Scalevista for a Video-on-Demand Platform Provider?

Scalevista specializes in building high-performing interactive and scalable streaming apps that are designed to improve the engagement level of devices. They have both live streaming and VOD functionalities in their services to provide an effortless experience for end-users. Key offerings include:

• Custom Live Streaming App Development: We provide custom live streaming app development, creating apps that reflect your brand and offer a seamless, user-friendly experience across all devices.
• Multi-Platform Streaming: Our multi-platform streaming ensures real-time video broadcasts on smartphones, computers, and smart TVs, delivering a consistent and engaging experience for your audience.
• Low Latency Streaming Solutions: With our low latency streaming solutions, we minimize delays for smooth, uninterrupted live broadcasts.
• Interactive Features Integration: We also integrate interactive features like live chat, polls, reactions, and overlays to keep your audience engaged in real-time.
• Scalable Infrastructure: Robust streaming infrastructures designed to grow alongside your audience, ensuring consistent performance during peak traffic periods.

Conclusion

Choosing the right video-on-demand (VOD) platform is crucial for your business to stay competitive in today’s streaming world. With viewers wanting content on their terms, providing a seamless, personalized experience is key to keeping them engaged and coming back.

Understanding the important factors—like monetization models, platform features, pricing, and content protection—will help you make the right choice. A solid VOD platform not only boosts user satisfaction but also supports growth and flexible revenue options.

At Scalevista, we specialize in creating custom live streaming and VOD solutions that deliver high-quality, interactive experiences across all devices. Our platform offers low-latency streaming, multi-platform access, and easy customization, so your content looks and feels like your own. Plus, with monetization options like SVOD, TVOD, and AVOD, you can choose what works best for your business.

Connect with us now to unlock the full power of your subscription video-on-demand services by starting today.