Using Video in Public Sector Communication

In Public Service Communication, students have handed a diverse array of responsibilities for their host organization, from planning fund-raisers, to writing press releases, to community outreach.

One common theme of the host organizations is that they would all like to increase their exposure and reach. In a crowded online marketplace, one way to stand out is through the use of video. But how?

Students in the class heard from Kathleen Byrne, whose job is producing short PR and marketing videos on behalf of Old Dominion University’s Office of Strategic Communication and Marketing.

In addition to showing examples of the videos she has created on behalf of the University, Byrne shared insight and simple tips to help make even someone brand-new to video into an expert. Simple online tools that anyone can access online for free make the process of shooting, editing and posting a video surprisingly simple.

“It really is easier than you think, and way easier than it used to be. And you carry a high-quality around in your pocket or purse,” Byrne told the students.

The advice could come in handy. Each of the students in COMM 495 is responsible for producing a short video on behalf of their organization

Those videos will be uploaded to students’ COMM ePortfolios by the end of the semester.

The videos may also be played by students during their short presentations in April about their work with their partner organization.