If you're new to streaming media then you won't want to miss these optional half-day briefings. At these informative seminars, you'll learn the basics of streaming media and get right up-to-speed for the conference sessions on the following days.

The "jargon-busting" seminars have a full hour scheduled for Q&A, and will be held in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. You'll be taken step-by-step through the basics of streaming audio and video. You'll also be provided with clear explanations of the strategic opportunities and practical issues you need to be aware of when planning your deployment of streaming applications.

The Beginner's Business Seminar will address the often-asked questions posed by many professionals new to the industry. This seminar is perfect for those in sales, marketing, management and administration who are looking to gain a better understanding of the everyday issues in a streaming media company. The discussion topics will include:

• History of streaming media
• Who are the primary players in this market?
• Look into current market statistics and developing trends
• What are the primary sectors for streaming media?
  • Enterprise - corporate communications, distance learning, product launches, videoconferencing
  • Entertainment - music, sports, adult entertainment, VOD
• What are the business models for streaming media, and are any working?
• Is there proven return on investment for streaming media?
• Future of audio and video on the Web

The Beginner's Technical Seminar is perfect for those attendees who wish to gain a better understanding of the technical applications behind streaming media. Based on the Streaming Media Tutorials, you will learn how to produce, encode, host and deliver your site's content. Some topics discussed will be:

• What exactly is streaming media?
• Introduction to codecs and architecture
• What’s the difference between live and on-demand streaming?
• How do streaming technologies work - from production to delivery?
• What are the quality-of-service and bandwidth issues you need to understand?
• What hardware and software is needed for streaming media?
• Basics of audio and video recording, pre-production, and delivery
• Adding interactivity to your website
• Encoding, hosting and serving your content