It should come as no surprise that even live streaming on the Internet has an etiquette protocol. The Internet has evolved much like a traditional culture, with guidelines, mores and etiquette rules being defined over time. As each new technology has found a place on the Internet, new etiquette guidelines have been developed to meet the specific needs of the technology. Live streaming is no different.
For those hoping to include a live streaming element on their website or blog, there are certain rules and guidelines that must be followed.
- It is important that any material which is covered by a legal copyright is adequately addressed. In most cases, a simple disclaimer is all that is needed. It is important that anyone including a live stream video of copyrighted material be fully aware of the legalities of doing so.
- Live stream etiquette also states that the website clearly describe the material covered with in the live streaming video. This specifically covers the length of said material. For example, advertising a full length song or video in a live stream and presenting the user with only a partial feed is considered poor etiquette.
- It is also in good taste to place an appropriate rating on material that warrants it. For example, a live stream of comedy act in which foul language or racial slurs is utilized, may very well warrant a warning on the website.
For those hoping to repost a live streaming video on their web site a blog, it is important that they do so only after contacting the original author or owner of the video. Most have no problem with allowing users to repost their work, as long as they’re given credit. It is, however, considered in exceptionally bad form to repost a live streaming video without clearly giving credit to the original owner.