YouTube video on the web site - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

Susan Betz · 11-28-2007, 04:09 PM

http://www.fencesofdistinction.com/post_pounder.html

I put the video on YouTube and then embedded it in the web page. Eventually I'm going to make a whole page with nothing but equipment on it.

**Ed the Roofer** · 11-28-2007, 04:44 PM

It came through very nicely, but it sort of drags on.

I think it could be better presented, with a short narration shot explaining why pounding is the preferred method versus augering. Then cut away to the 2 styles of hole making, then swiftly back to a narration about some of the other qualities this method brings to the table for the customers desired long term satisfaction.

Maybe show an example of how the soil remains compacted for post stability after being set.

Also, remember users attention spans will only concentrate on something like this for a very short time.

Eventually, you could have the short and to the point condensed version and an additional page tagged with the full blown version for the anal portion of your clientelle who demand more and more information about everything they are purchasing and want to know the reasons why.

Ed

Susan Betz · 11-28-2007, 06:03 PM

Thanks, Ed. Great suggestions.

There's some text on the web site and in the YouTube synopsis that addresses what you're suggesting. It's not in the video, though.

We have tractor-pulled augers but I'm hampered getting video by the fact that most of our work is out of town, and I'm here in town because of my kids. In other words, I'm not where the work is most of the time. On the job that we're on now, there's going to be maybe three or four holes that will be augured (trees), so if I'm not there on the day they auger, I wait till the next job. Nobody has time to take video but me - the crew is hauling butt the whole time.

Like most wonks who put equipment videos on their site, I focused on the process from beginning to end, and you're right, it's a little long. (but you should see my husband watch videos with land-clearing mulchers and heavy-duty loaders, he CALLS ME OVER to watch with him!)

**Ed the Roofer** · 11-28-2007, 06:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Susan Betz

There's some text on the web site and in the YouTube synopsis that addresses what you're suggesting. It's not in the video, though.

it's a little long. (but you should see my husband watch videos with land-clearing mulchers and heavy-duty loaders, he CALLS ME OVER to watch with him!)

For me, I read that text because I was reviewing your concept embedded into your website. I really like the idea and potential alot.

A group called Lawrence Media charges big bucks to provide that service for their web site clients.

The only reason I read through the script, which was a little obscure, was because I was getting droned out from the video.

Your husband is a perfect example of why I suggested a full blown video option for the people who like all of the details.

Sort of like giving web site visitors the option of a flash version or standard version. Click Here For The Complete 15 Minute Version: CLICK, or Click Here For The 90 Second Version: CLICK.

You would probably be able to track which type of video version gets more commonly viewed too, so you know where to concentrate your editing efforts.

Mike Finley · 11-28-2007, 06:19 PM

I think the website explains the concept pretty well and the video is just there to emphasis it and demonstrate it. The vid could certainly use some editing, get rid of that horrid tractor noise and shoot it in the sunlight. 30 seconds would probably be plenty.

Good concept! I need to get more high tech like that!

Susan Betz · 11-28-2007, 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike Finley

I think the website explains the concept pretty well and the video is just there to emphasis it and demonstrate it. The vid could certainly use some editing, get rid of that horrid tractor noise and shoot it in the sunlight. 30 seconds would probably be plenty.

Good concept! I need to get more high tech like that!

If I get rid of the tractor noise, you can't hear the pounder whacking the post!

I wasn't happy with the light, but when I took that vid it was going to be hours before they were in good sun and I was leaving town... lame, isn't it?

I'm going to shoot it again eventually, and you're right, it needs more light. And Ed's right, I need to get an auger video in there. For a while, this is it.

The one thing I really love about this video is the guy working the pounder. His name is Mackie, and he's really conscientous. I didn't tell him to check that leveling for the camera - he does that for every single post, halfway through and when it's done. If it's not level at the end, they'll push it with the tractor and tamp it until it's completely level. I don't think there are many pounding crews being that careful.