How to Start a Video Distribution Company
Video distribution used to follow a single path on its way to the consumer--from the film studio to the distribution company, then to the retailer, and finally to the consumer. But currently, videos can be distributed directly to the consumer, either by the film studio, the distributor or even by the production company. There are other methods of distribution today as well.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Analyze your video distribution market. Identify a niche market that you have interest in. For example, you can choose to distribute videos made for a specific course such as yoga or home exercises. Check with several video stores and talk to clients regarding their preferences.
-
2
Devise an operations manual. This is a comprehensive documentation of how you will operate your company. Explain how you plan to carry on the daily functions required by the business. Make a list of all the tasks in their order of importance. Find out if you need to hire people to operate the business.
-
-
3
Determine your business's legal structure. Register your business structure with your state's secretary of state, and apply for a business license through your local county clerk. Contact your local Department of Licensing and apply for any necessary business permits.
-
4
Write a business plan to understand and organize your business, plan for the future and obtain the necessary funding. Include your business overview, market research into the business climate in the video industry in your locality, details about your competitors, a marketing plan, background information, financing alternatives, pro forma financial statements and legal documents.
-
5
Choose a location to store your videos in the form of DVDs or other media. Make sure that you have space for administrative offices and for file storage. You don't need a location with access to consumer traffic. Just find a suitable location that cuts down your expenses.
-
6
Create your own website. Gather necessary software and hardware. Find a suitable host for your website, determine the necessary equipment and choose software that can keep track of video inventory with ease.
-
7
Seek out the types of videos that fit into your business and that you plan to distribute. Contact the retailers or production company owners directly. Sign agreements or contracts for distribution rights.
-
8
Print business cards. Place a link to your website in search engines, directories and video distribution blogs.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Stack of DVDs with a reflection of a dollar bill image by Steve Johnson from Fotolia.com
