Media

Web policies

Introduction

The University provides a growing number of media files including video and audio. This policy provides a set of guidelines and standards for this type of media going forward and does not allow for existing site formats.

Hosting
All media will be hosted on NTU web servers where possible.

Video

Download
A user can download the media onto their PC but may only view it once the file has fully downloaded. Once downloaded the file can be replayed or transferred to other devices.

Progressive download
Slightly different to download as the media will start to play as soon as enough of the file has downloaded to ensure continuous playback within the selected player.

Format
Videos footage will be provided predominately in two formats:

Flash (.flv) - progressive and download
QuickTime (.mp4) - download only

Additional formats maybe used if the delivery mechanism so demands, .swf files for example.

Quality
All attempts will be made to keep file sizes to minimum whilst ensuring the best quality. Files sizes will vary depending on format, video length, audience and delivery method.

The average quality for each format will be as follows:

QuickTime

Video quality – high (1.5mbps)
Audio quality – 128kbs
Resolution - 640 x 480
Encoder – H264

Flash

Video quality – low to medium (400kbps)
Audio quality – 128kbs
Resolution – 320 x 240
Encoder – On2 VP6

DVDs can be provided on request.

Dimensions
Dimensions may vary depending on the content and location.

Aspect ratios
Video footage will be provided in either one of the following two aspect ratios:

Widescreen - 16:9
Normal – 4:3

Branding
We will endeavour to ensure every video file will be branded to incorporate the NTU shield. In some cases the shield will link to the NTU homepage.

Transcriptions
Transcriptions will be provided where possible.