Providing a common experience Like the immutability of a book, a slide, or an audio tape, a video can present the same content in the same way to every viewer. That's because the presence of sight, sound, and motion in this one medium allows the artistry of musicians, documentarians, dramatists, writers, graphic artists, etc. to be applied with the evocative results that are possible through these crafts. In essence, the frown or smile via video is closest to the real thing. Narrowcast A discussion of video characteristics would not be complete without considering two methods of delivery used for widespread transmission of instructional video content. The two methods are broadcast and narrowcast.
Broadcast means to transmit data to everybody capable of receiving the signal.
Narrowcast means to transmit data to selected individuals capable of receiving the signal. Satellite broadcasting is appropriate for this audience. The satellite itself re-transmits the signal back to earth. Using either technology often requires contracting with communication service providers, such as Regional Bell Operating Companies, or other entities to provide all, or part, of the connectivity which must occur between transmission and reception sites. Satellite uplink and transponder time is currently very expensive.