What is VOD Packaging?
What is VOD packaging?
When people ask “What is VOD packaging?”, they mean the process of preparing a video-on-demand (VOD) asset so it can be delivered—and watched—on any device, reliably and securely. It’s like packaging a gift: you wrap it, label it properly, and make sure it fits all delivery guidelines. In the world of OTT and VOD platforms, VOD packaging ensures your content is packaged to spec—and ready to play wherever viewers are.
Why VOD Packaging Matters
Content creators and distributors must meet each platform’s formatting rules—things like video format, resolution, subtitles, audio tracks, digital rights management (DRM) rules, and more. Handing off an incorrectly packaged file means delayed launches, re-work, or even rejection by platforms like Netflix, Amazon, or Hulu. That’s why packaging—the final step after editing and transcoding—is so critical. It ensures the right media components go to the right place, at the right time.
The VOD Packaging Workflow: Simplified
- Transcoding & Renditions
First, the video is compressed into different quality levels—called Adaptive Bitrate (ABR) renditions—to support a range of connection speeds. - Packaging
These renditions are split into smaller chunks and wrapped into formats like HLS (Apple) or DASH (common on Android/desktop). These bundles also include manifest files (.m3u8 for HLS, .mpd for DASH) that tell video players where to find what. - DRM & Encryption
To prevent unauthorized viewing or copying, DRM systems like Widevine or FairPlay ensure only paying customers can watch. - Delivery via CDN
Finally, files are uploaded to a CDN (Content Delivery Network) for fast, global delivery, reducing buffering and latency.
Stop Doing It Manually—Automate VOD Packaging and Distribution With Ateliere
With Ateliere Connect™, you can turn tedious manual packaging into a cloud-powered, template-driven process:
- Recipe-based packaging: Define a “recipe” of what your package needs—renditions, language tracks, DRM, subtitles, etc.—and Ateliere automates it across all titles
- Built-in templates: Easily drop in preset formats for major platforms (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu) and instantly match submission specifications.
- Dynamic media components: Only changed elements (like a new audio track or subtitle) are re-packed, saving storage and time.
- Error reduction: Tag-driven automation helps eliminate human mistakes—like missing tracks or wrong metadata—which are common causes of rejections.
- Scale globally: Over 100 OTT, broadcast, and cable endpoints are supported via pre-built templates.
- Save time & cost: No more hand-off delays—quick, API-led packaging that slashes overhead and speeds delivery.
- Minimize storage waste: Reuse existing content and only package unique assets for each version or territory.
- Track every detail: Metadata and deliverables are managed cleanly—perfect for audits, localization, and reporting.
Next Steps
- See it live: Schedule a demo and discover how VOD packaging works on the Ateliere platform.
- Check your savings: Use our Cost Savings Calculator to find out how much you can reduce manual time and cloud costs.
- Explore workflows: Visit our VOD Packaging & Distribution page for full platform details.
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What is VOD Packaging?
What is the Media Supply Chain?
