Consider These Factors When Looking for a Podcast Platform

Choosing the site to host your podcast on is a big decision. The platform you pick will largely determine the technical capabilities you have for creating, hosting, broadcasting and recording your podcast.

It is important to make sure you do not limit yourself with your selection. Consider these factors when looking for a podcast platform.

Promotional Tools

If no one listens to your podcast, your efforts are basically futile. This is why getting the word out about it, especially when it is new, is imperative.

And to do so, you need good promotional and marketing tools. One of the best marketing tools is a website and, for this reason, some podcasting hosting sites include customized websites for shows.

Bandwidth or Episode Restrictions

There are a number of services that limit the number of uploads you can make or the amount of bandwidth you can use. If you want your podcast to feature a significant number of episodes or multiple seasons, you want to choose a platform that adheres to these preferences. Options include limited uploads free-of-charge and unlimited upload bandwidth for a low monthly fee.

In general, it is best to go with a hosting site that offers unlimited storage. This way, you can podcast to your heart’s content without worrying about exceeding your allotted bandwidth. This arrangement gives your podcast room to grow.

Alteration of Episode Files

Some podcast hosting providers alter the file type, bitrate or metadata of episodes when you upload it to the platform. Examples include checking for missing ID3 tags and automatically inserting other ID3 tags after uploading and converting uncompressed WAV files into MP3 files.

This is not a bad thing as long as it is what you want. If you prefer that your files are not altered, ask the provider upfront if it is possible to maintain the files in their original form.

Analytics IAB Compliance

The Advertising Bureau (IAB) established guidelines governing the way that podcast analytics are tracked. These standards are important because they improve the accuracy of podcasting analytics, allowing podcasters who work with sponsors and advertisers to be transparent with the information they provide.

While some platforms have made their analytics IAB compliant, not every site has followed suit. This is a critical factor to take into account when looking at different podcast hosting sites.