Seamless Video Integration in SharePoint

Key insights

• Edit the SharePoint Page: Navigate to the desired page and click the Edit button to make changes.


• Add the Stream Web Part: Click the + icon in your desired area, search for "Stream" in the toolbox, and select it to add a video web part.


• Configure Video Source: Choose from Single video, Folder, or Videos on this site. Select the specific video or folder you wish to display.


• Customize Layout: Options include Theater for playlist format and Grid for a grid layout. Adjust video count per row as needed.


• Set Sorting Preferences: Sort videos by criteria like Recently created, Recently edited, or by Author.


• Publish Changes: Once satisfied with configurations, click Republish to make your changes live on SharePoint.

Introduction to the New Stream Web Part

The integration of videos into SharePoint pages has always been a crucial aspect of enhancing user engagement and communication. With the transition from the old Stream to the New Stream, now known as Stream on SharePoint, the process of adding videos has evolved significantly. The introduction of the New Stream Web Part offers a dedicated solution for embedding videos directly into SharePoint pages. This article delves into the features and functionalities of this new web part, providing a comprehensive guide on how to effectively utilize it.

Understanding the Transition: From Old to New Stream

Historically, SharePoint users had several methods for embedding videos, each with its own set of limitations. Initially, videos were stored in the classic Stream, and the only way to add them to SharePoint pages was through the now-obsolete Stream Web Part. This method allowed the addition of single or multiple videos from a Stream channel. However, with the transition to Stream on SharePoint, new options emerged, including the File & Media and HCWP Web Parts. While these web parts offered some functionality, they were primarily designed for embedding office files rather than videos, leading to several challenges:

• The web parts were not specifically tailored for Stream on SharePoint videos.
• There was an inconvenience in having separate web parts for single and multiple videos.
• Lack of video-specific settings such as display and layout options.

These challenges highlighted the need for a more streamlined and video-focused solution, paving the way for the New Stream Web Part.

Steps to Add Videos Using the New Stream Web Part

The New Stream Web Part simplifies the process of adding videos to SharePoint pages. Here is a step-by-step guide to using this feature:

• Edit the SharePoint Page: Navigate to the desired page and click the Edit button located at the top right corner.
• Add the Stream Web Part: Hover over the area where you wish to insert the video and click the + icon. Search for and select the Stream web part from the toolbox.
• Configure the Stream Web Part: Click the pencil icon to edit the web part's properties. In the Content section, choose your video source:
  • Single video: Display one specific video.
  • Folder: Display all videos within a particular folder.
  • Videos on this site: Display all videos stored on the current site.
• Customize Layout and Appearance: In the Layout section, select how you want the videos to appear:
  • Theater: Videos play at the top with others listed below.
  • Grid: Videos appear in a grid layout; clicking a video opens it in a pop-up.
  Adjust the number of videos per row and the total number to display as needed.
• Set Sorting Preferences: Determine the order in which videos appear:
  • Recently created: Newest videos first.
  • Recently edited: Most recently modified videos first.
  • Author: Sort based on the creator.
• Publish the Page: Once satisfied with the configuration, click Republish to make the changes live.

Advantages and Tradeoffs of the New Stream Web Part

The New Stream Web Part offers numerous advantages, making it a preferred choice for SharePoint users. However, like any tool, it comes with its own set of tradeoffs. Understanding these can help users make informed decisions. Advantages:

• Dedicated Video Solution: Specifically designed for Stream on SharePoint videos, offering video-specific settings and layouts.
• Flexibility: Users can choose between displaying a single video, multiple videos from a folder, or all videos on a site.
• Enhanced User Experience: The pop-up player provides an excellent viewing experience.

Tradeoffs:

• Learning Curve: Users familiar with the old methods may need time to adapt to the new interface and functionalities.
• Dependency on SharePoint Environment: The web part's performance may vary depending on the SharePoint setup and network conditions.

Challenges and Considerations

While the New Stream Web Part offers a robust solution for video integration, there are challenges and considerations to keep in mind:

• Compatibility Issues: Ensure that your SharePoint environment is updated to support the new web part.
• Content Management: Proper organization of video content is crucial for efficient use of the web part.
• User Training: Providing training sessions can help users leverage the full potential of the web part.

In conclusion, the New Stream Web Part represents a significant advancement in video integration for SharePoint pages. By understanding its features, advantages, and challenges, users can effectively enhance their SharePoint sites with engaging video content.

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