Webinar terms and glossary

Talk like a webinar guru. Your essential guide.
Welcome to our comprehensive webinar platform terms and glossary page, a dedicated resource designed to demystify the terminology of the digital webinar world. Whether you’re a seasoned webinar host or new to online conferencing, this glossary is your go-to guide for understanding key concepts and technical terms related to webinar platforms. From «Attendee Engagement» to «Secure Streaming,» we cover a wide array of terms, providing clear and concise definitions to enhance your knowledge and confidence in navigating the world of webinars. Dive into our glossary to familiarize yourself with the essential jargon, stay updated with the latest terms, and make the most of your webinar hosting experience.
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  • Automated webinar – An automated webinar is an online event that is pre-recorded but streamed as a live event, allowing viewers to simulate a live interaction. This allows presenters to deliver content to a global audience without the constraints of real-time interaction. These webinars are ideal for educational or marketing purposes and provide a consistent, controlled message with multiple viewings.

  • Attendees – An attendee is a registered individual who actively joins and participates in an online webinar or virtual event. They engage with the event’s content and participate in interactive elements like discussions and Q&A sessions. This term specifically refers to those who not only register but also are present during the live event.

  • API – An provides programming tools for integrating webinar features like registration and attendee management into other software systems, enabling seamless functionality with existing business tools.

  • Alternative technology – An alternative technology, symbolizing “Direct Transmission Securely,” is a cutting-edge downloadable plugin developed by MyOwnConference. Specially crafted for secure, real-time streaming, this technology employs the TCP protocol to deliver impressively low latency, typically under 3 seconds. It is a robust alternative to the WebRTC protocol, particularly suitable in scenarios where organizational policies or ISP rules constrain UDP or WebRTC. This technology is highly recommended for those who place a premium on secure and safeguarded streaming. By combining TCP with SSL encryption, alternative technology ensures that streams are securely transmitted and exclusively accessible within the specific webinar rooms for which they are intended. Its emphasis on security and ease of access makes alternative technology the go-to solution for those requiring a reliable and secure streaming experience, especially in environments with stringent protocol restrictions.

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  • Custom domain – The ability to customize your webinar link with a special branding feature to create a unique and personalized web address for each webinar. This custom URL makes it easier for attendees to join your webinar and boosts your branding and visibility. You can include your name or the webinar topic in the URL, making it recognizable and memorable for your audience. This feature is perfect for enhancing the professional appeal and accessibility of your webinars.

  • Custom webinar URL – A custom webinar URL is a personalized web address explicitly used for accessing a particular webinar. This unique URL simplifies the process of joining the webinar for attendees and enhances the host’s branding and recognition. It often includes the host’s name or the webinar’s topic, making it easily identifiable and memorable.

  • CTA – A Call to Action (CTA) is a directive used in marketing materials and websites, prompting an immediate response or encouraging an immediate sale. It typically takes the form of a button or link, with phrases like “Buy Now” or “Subscribe Here,” guiding users towards a specific action. CTAs are essential in converting visitors into leads or customers, acting as a signpost to the next step in the user journey.

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  • DTS – Standing for “Direct TCP Streaming,” is an innovative downloadable plugin offered by MyOwnConference, available as DTS.app and DTS.exe. Designed to facilitate secure, real-time streaming, DTS operates over the TCP protocol and ensures an impressively low latency of less than 3 seconds. This plugin is a reliable alternative to the WebRTC protocol, making it ideal for situations where UDP or WebRTC are restricted due to corporate policies or ISP regulations. DTS is particularly recommended for users who prioritize secure and protected streaming. Utilizing TCP combined with SSL encryption, our DTS plugin guarantees that streams are securely transmitted and exclusively accessible within the designated webinar rooms. This focus on security and accessibility positions DTS as a preferred choice for users seeking a stable and secure streaming experience in environments with specific protocol limitations.

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  • Evergreen webinar – An evergreen webinar is a pre-recorded webinar designed to be relevant and valuable over an extended period. Unlike live webinars that are specific to a time and date, evergreen webinars can be accessed and viewed at any time, providing a timeless resource for viewers. They are often used in educational and marketing contexts to consistently engage audiences without the need for frequent updates or live presence.

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  • Guest speaker – A guest speaker is an individual invited to speak at an event based on their expertise, experience, or notable achievements in a specific field. They often provide a fresh perspective or specialized knowledge, adding value and diversity to the discussion or presentation. Guest speakers are typically external to the organizing body and are sought after for their ability to engage and enlighten audiences on particular topics.

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  • Invitation – An invitation is a digital or electronic communication sent to potential participants to inform them about an upcoming webinar and encourage their attendance. It typically includes key details like the webinar topic, date, time, and a link to register or join the event. This invitation plays a crucial role in attracting and informing the target audience, effectively boosting participation in the webinar.

  • Invited presenter – An invited presenter is a designated individual explicitly requested to host a session within a webinar. This role typically involves presenting material, discussing the topic, and sharing their screen with attendees. While the Invited Presenter plays a crucial role in delivering content, their access to other features of the webinar software MyOwnConference is more restricted compared to the primary host. They might be unable to interact fully with attendees, such as managing participation, banning disruptive attendees, or accessing certain advanced functionalities. This role is focused primarily on content delivery, ensuring a streamlined and focused webinar experience.

  • Instant meeting room – An instant meeting room is a virtual space for quick and efficient online meetings and discussions. This digital environment is an immediate and accessible connection point for participants and presenters to engage, share thoughts, and communicate seamlessly in real time. Key features of this room include on-the-spot video and audio conferencing, instant messaging options, convenient screen sharing, and the ability to conduct polls for rapid feedback. These integrated tools ensure a dynamic and interactive meeting experience, streamlining communication and collaboration and enhancing productivity in spontaneous or scheduled gatherings.

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  • Jitter – Jitter is common in virtually all internet connections, whether Ethernet (wired), Wi-Fi, or mobile networks. This metric can fluctuate with high usage of your network connection. For instance, in the case of Wi-Fi, the extent of jitter depends on several factors, with the primary one being the network congestion caused by numerous household devices. Jitter can pose a significant issue in apartment buildings or office complexes, where one network might be shared across multiple offices. Even many of your own household devices can lead to increased jitter or more pronounced fluctuations.

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  • Live webinar – A live webinar is an interactive online seminar conducted in real-time, allowing for immediate communication between the presenter and the audience. It offers a dynamic platform for sharing information, where participants can ask questions, respond to polls, and engage in discussions as the event unfolds.

  • Latency – Latency refers to the delay between the actual action and its appearance on viewers’ screens. It is a critical factor for real-time communication, affecting the synchronization of interactions such as Q&A sessions and live chats. Reducing latency enables more interactive and engaging interactions because it reduces the time lag between the presenter and the audience.

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  • On-demand webinar – An on-demand webinar refers to a recorded and stored online, enabling viewers to watch it at their convenience. This webinar allows the audience to engage with the content at a time that suits them rather than being bound to a specific live schedule. It’s particularly effective for reaching a broader audience, as it allows for continuous engagement without the constraints of a live event.

  • OBS – A free and popular tool for creating professional-looking live streams and video recordings. It allows users to combine multiple sources (video, audio, images, etc.) and customize their layout. OBS Studio offers advanced features for scene transitions, audio/video mixing, and customization for a more dynamic webinar experience. When used with our webinar platform via RTMP, presenters can significantly enhance the quality and engagement of their broadcasts.

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  • Participant – A participant in the context of webinars and virtual events refers to an individual who not only registers for but also actively engages in the session. Participants are critical players in interactive elements of the event, often contributing to discussions, polls, and Q&A sessions. Unlike mere attendees, who may passively consume content, participants actively participate in the event, potentially influencing its flow and outcome with their interactions. This term underscores their involvement beyond mere attendance, highlighting their integral role in the webinar or virtual event dynamics.

  • Presenter – Presenter refers to the individual at the forefront of a webinar, responsible for hosting and guiding the event. This role encompasses delivering presentations, articulating key points, and engaging the audience with relevant content. Presenters often demonstrate concepts by sharing their screens, showcasing slides or videos, and providing real-time explanations. They are also tasked with recording the webinar for future use, ensuring the content is accessible even after the live session. The presenter's role is crucial in creating an interactive and informative experience, effectively bridging the gap between the presenter's knowledge and the audience's interests. Their communication and content delivery skills play a vital role in the success of the webinar, making them a key figure in any virtual seminar or workshop.

  • Pre-recorded webinar – A pre-recorded webinar is a webinar that is filmed and edited in advance of its release rather than broadcast live. This format allows for a polished, error-free presentation, ensuring a consistent and high-quality viewing experience. Pre-recorded webinars are ideal for repeated viewings and can be accessed by audiences at their convenience, offering flexibility in timing and participation.

  • Ping – Ping refers to the time it takes for a data packet to travel from your computer, through the network, to another computer or server, and back. The higher the ping, the longer it takes for web pages, audio, or video streams to load. In other words, for a smooth webinar viewing experience, a lower ping (preferably not more than 60 ms) is better. If you’re experiencing high ping or consistently getting varied results, contact your internet provider and consider upgrading to a more robust plan.

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  • Registrants – Registrants are individuals who have signed up or enrolled for an event, such as a webinar, but have not yet attended it. They have expressed interest in completing a registration process, which typically involves providing contact information and possibly other details relevant to the event. Registrants form the potential audience for the event and are crucial for planning and communication purposes.

  • Recurring webinar – A recurring webinar is a series of webinars scheduled at regular intervals, such as weekly or monthly. This format is ideal for ongoing training sessions, regular updates, or continuous engagement with a target audience. It allows hosts to build and maintain a consistent relationship with attendees, fostering community and constant learning or discussion around a topic.

  • RTMP – Real-Time Messaging Protocol is a protocol used for streaming audio, video, and data over the internet, primarily between a server and a flash player. Originally developed by Macromedia, it’s widely used in live broadcasting and on-demand streaming services.

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  • TCP – The Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a core protocol of the Internet protocol suite, known for its reliability and ordered delivery of data packets. In real-time broadcasting, TCP differs from UDP (User Datagram Protocol) by prioritizing the accuracy and completeness of data transmission over speed. This protocol ensures that all data packets are delivered sequentially and without loss, making it suitable for applications where data integrity is more critical than latency.

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  • UDP – The User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a vital component of internet networking, particularly favored for real-time streaming due to its speed and efficiency. Unlike TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), which ensures reliable and sequential data delivery, UDP sends data packets quickly without waiting for acknowledgments, significantly reducing latency. This makes it ideal for live video and audio streaming, online gaming, and video conferencing, where minimal delay is crucial for user experience.

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  • Vimeo video – Our platform enables you to effortlessly showcase Vimeo videos, bringing a more prosperous and more dynamic range to your presentations and engaging your audience with high-quality content. Additionally, our platform provides an extra layer of security for your private Vimeo content. This ensures that only attendees who are invited and present in the webinar room can access these videos. This exclusive feature guarantees the confidentiality of your content while allowing you to utilize the extensive, high-quality resources available on Vimeo, enhancing the interactivity and informativeness of your webinars.

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  • Webinar series – A webinar series refers to a sequence of webinars interconnected through a consistent theme, subject, or educational objective and spread out over a set period. Each webinar in the series is designed to expand upon the information or discussion presented in the previous session, allowing for a thorough and detailed exploration of the topic. This structured approach promotes in-depth learning and sustained engagement by allowing attendees to delve deeper into the subject over several related sessions. Additionally, the convenience of a single registration link for all webinars in the series enhances accessibility and simplifies the process for participants, encouraging continuous involvement throughout the series.

  • Webinar room – Webinar room is a virtual venue for hosting and conducting online webinars and meetings. This digital space is a central point for presenters and attendees to interact, exchange ideas, and communicate in real time. Its features include video and audio streaming, chat options, screen-sharing capabilities, and interactive polls. These tools are integrated to create an engaging and interactive environment, enhancing the overall experience of online events and fostering collaboration among participants.

  • White label webinar – White label webinar refers to a webinar service that is developed by one company but branded and marketed under another company’s name. This allows businesses to offer webinar services to their clients or employees without having to create the technology themselves. The white label aspect means that the original developer’s branding is not visible, giving the impression that the hosting company made the service.

  • Whiteboard – A webinar whiteboard is an interactive tool used in online seminars to illustrate concepts, ideas, or processes in real-time visually. It mimics the functionality of a physical whiteboard, allowing presenters to draw, write, or showcase diagrams and notes digitally. This feature enhances the webinar’s interactivity and engagement, making complex or abstract topics more accessible and understandable for attendees.

  • Webinar analytics – Webinar analytics is collecting and analyzing data related to online seminars or webinars. This data can include participant engagement, attendance levels, and feedback, which is critical to understanding the effectiveness of a webinar. By analyzing these metrics, organizers can improve content, participant engagement, and the overall value of their webinars.

  • WebRTC – Web Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) is an open-source project that provides web browsers and mobile applications with real-time communication capabilities via simple application programming interfaces (APIs). It enables audio and video communication to work inside web pages by allowing direct peer-to-peer communication, eliminating the need for an intermediary server or additional software.

  • Webcast – A webcast is a media presentation distributed over the Internet using streaming media technology, which can be distributed live or on demand. It is a digital broadcast similar to television broadcasts but accessed through a web browser. Webcasts are commonly used for corporate meetings, product launches, and educational sessions, allowing a broad audience to participate remotely.

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  • YouTube webinar – We introduce an innovative approach to webinars by seamlessly integrating YouTube content into your webinar sessions. With our platform, you can effortlessly showcase YouTube videos or live streams, enriching your presentations and engaging your audience with dynamic range. What’s more, our platform offers an added layer of security for your private YouTube content. Only attendees who are invited and present in the webinar room will have access to view these materials. This unique feature ensures that your exclusive content remains confidential while still leveraging the vast resources available on YouTube.

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  • Zoom – An essential feature in our webinar platform that empowers attendees to dynamically interact with the content presented. It enables users to magnify or reduce the size of the slides and screen shares displayed by the presenter during a webinar. This functionality is especially useful for focusing on specific details or getting a broader view of the presented material. It ensures that all attendees, regardless of their device screen size or personal preference, can comfortably view and engage with the content, enhancing their overall webinar experience.