VIP VIDEO
The Center for Veterans Enterprise is happy to announce a unique marketing tool for businesses registered in the VetBiz Vendor Information Pages – Streaming VIP Video!
What is VIP Video and How Will It Benefit Veteran-Owned Small Businesses?
“VIP Video” allows each owner registered in the VetBiz Vendor Information Pages(VIP) to promote their businesses with a three-minute video feature. We believe this visual outreach tool will enhance customer interest in your business. It will promote the use of the VIP database by allowing buyers the ability not only to read about your capability but also to see your business as well.
The VIP database in the Center for Veterans Enterprise may be the first national database to offer such a service at no cost to business owners. You may view a sample video clip by using the “customized search” on the Vendor Information Page database and clicking “yes” on “Video Included.” When the report screen loads, click on the camera icon associated to view the clips.
There are six different files associated with each video to accommodate the speed in which users access the Internet. We have provided the two most common video file formats Real Player and Windows Media Player. Once you’ve determined which file is appropriate just double click and the video clip will begin.
Following are some basic elements of how to construct a high quality video clip that we have compiled based upon feedback from buyers.
1. Focus on Your Objective and Indicate What Action is to be Taken
What do you want to the video clip to convey to your audience? What action do you want from prospective customers? Do you want them to call your business, visit your Web site, test a new product, or something else? You must be specific in you objective in order to focus the video clip.
2. Sell the Benefits of Using Your Product or Service
Remember that you are probably competing with other companies that offer similar products or services. When developing your clip, try to think like your prospective client and answer the question “Why should I purchase products or services from this company?”
3. Consider Using Graphics
Use graphics to help the customer remember your business and want to learn more by going to your Web site or otherwise contacting your business. Be judicious when using graphics in this clip. Customers who want to view Power Point presentations can easily get this from your Web site.
4. Make it Simple to Learn More.
Before deciding whether to send in a video clip, ensure that the communication tools you have will enable the customer to quickly obtain information about your business, i.e., telephones are answered or are forwarded to a messaging system; Web site works, a fax machine is available, etc.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
How do I submit a commercial for video streaming?
The process is very simple. Submit a three minute maximum video to the Center for Veterans Enterprise via CD-ROM or email attachment. The file format for your video can be in any of the following file formats: AVI, DV, MPEG1/2, Quick Time, AIFF, Windows Media, and MP3. If you have a file format not mentioned above please call 866584-2344 ext 5248. The video will be reviewed by the CVE staff before it is approved to be placed into the database. The requirements for approval: (1) Does it meet the established time limits? (2) Is the technical quality of the video acceptable, i.e., is it easy to see? and (3) Does the content reflect positively on the owner(s). CVE staff will communicate receipt of the material and any concerns that may slow posting of the clip. Any material submitted to CVE will not be returned. We are happy to provide this new enhancement to VIP and hope you all will take full advantage of it. This feature is completely optional to you. If you decline to develop a video clip, your decision will not affect your firm’s status in the VIP database.
If you are interested in the technical process of the above feature or have any questions please send questions to Tyrone Brown at VIP@va.gov . Once your video is ready, you may email the clip to VIP@va.gov . Alternatively, mail a CDROM to: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Center for Veterans Enterprise (00VE), 810 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C. 20420.
