Videography
University Communications and Marketing (UCM) is responsible for creating, managing, and authorizing all external communications for Oakland University, including video content. UCM ensures that video production resources are allocated strategically and effectively, supporting the university’s highest-impact initiatives—those that align most directly with OU’s mission, vision, strategic goals and presidential initiatives.
Requesting Video Services:
Requests for video services should be directed to your assigned UCM account manager, who will evaluate how each project aligns with departmental objectives and OU’s broader communication strategy.
For projects deemed low in strategic value or ROI, your account manager will offer alternative solutions, including organic tactics, enhanced photography and self-recording technology. Or, project may be produced with an approved freelance videographer. All methods will result in final deliverables that are high-quality and retained for archival purposes.
Your UCM account manager helps facilitate the best options for each video need, ranging from events, marketing and informational visions. Please reach out if you have any questions about an impending project; to encourage these conversations, these are a few questions that account managers will prioritize when helping you plan:
- What is the goal of your video? (archive an event, offer instructional information, market a specific program or event, etc.)
- Is video the best option for your goals? Have you considered all UCM’s marketing opportunities, including photography, social media graphics, Axis TV graphics, graphics for local publications, fliers, posters, brochures, mailing items, etc.? Review UCM’s wide variety of materials, and feel free to contact your account manager if you have any questions about these opportunities as well.
- How do you plan to distribute your video? (house it on the website or Youtube, via an Emma email, via organic social media, a paid social media campaign or possibly a combination)
- Do you have a subject in mind? (a specific student, staff or faculty member that will be the focus)
- How long would you like the video to be? (Shorter segments are best for social media, while a video on the website could be around 1-2 minutes.)
- Do you have a budget in mind for the video or its distribution (possible paid social media options)?
- Do you have a firm deadline?
Thank you for considering this communication and marketing opportunity! After reviewing these points, please contact your account manager to help determine the next best steps for your goals.
To maximize effectiveness and return on investment (ROI), UCM prioritizes video projects that:
- Directly support OU’s strategic vision, enrollment strategies, and revenue-generating efforts.
- Are integrated into comprehensive marketing or communication campaigns with clear, measurable distribution plans.
- Have broad usability, with footage adaptable for at least three additional projects.
- Are designated for paid media placements, such as social media ads, streaming TV spots, or cross-screen digital displays.
To improve efficiency and optimize resources in event and panel discussions, UCM encourages the use of technology-driven solutions, including:
- PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras to capture high-quality footage with minimal staffing.
- There are several GrizzFlex-equipped rooms that provide built-in, flexible audiovisual capabilities. Learn more about GrizzFlex technology, a new type of classroom featuring innovative technology that allows students and faculty to engage in synchronous and asynchronous learning (hybrid or HyFlex), and see if this format suits your video needs.
- Photography and digital assets are alternatives to video for archival and promotional content when it's not essential.
In addition to high-impact video projects, UCM-Video will:
- Assist with major special events.
- Provide camera work for live streaming as needed.
Description: Captures the event and key takeaways.
Purpose: Ideal for platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or to be embedded in an e-newsletter.
Goal Length: Under 90 seconds.
Production Approach:
- One stationary camera
- One roaming camera operator
- Final video must be transcribed for ADA compliance (SRT file)
Turnaround Time:
- Requires an upfront timeline discussion—goal: 10 Business days.
Sample:
OU Economic Impact Video
Description: Full-length presentation recorded with a PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) camera with PowerPoint slide integration
Purpose: Capture entire event for future viewing
Length: Full event time
Use Case: Document-style recording of live events.
Production Approach:
- PTZ = Pan (rotate), Tilt (up/down), Zoom (in/out)
- Real-time recording of presentations
- Editor can insert:
- Title and end slides
- Name plates
- Key slides from the original PowerPoint
Additional Support to Keep in Mind:
- Transcription/caption required (SRT file for YouTube)
- Must provide name spellings, official titles and preferred slides
- Final video must be ADA-compliant
Turnaround Time:
- Typically 30 days (must be discussed ahead of time)
Sample:
OU Economic Impact Event – PTZ Example
Optional for Quick Delivery:
- Unedited PTZ footage + PowerPoint slides can be delivered immediately
- Captioning is still required before public use
Description: A creative option that utilizes professional still photography to create a cinematic presentation. Video recording is not required.
Purpose: This could be a helpful asset for social media or the website, depending on the final length of the video.
Length: Under 2.5 minutes for a 30-minute event
Production Approach:
- You will select and submit photos with your account manager
- You and your account manager will work to provide name plates or brief captions/explainer text
- Slides from presentation can be included
- A designer will layout visuals for your approval
- Once approved, a video editor adds transitions and music
Turnaround Time:
- Depends on:
- Photo delivery time
- Speed of narration and design approvals
Additional Support to Keep in Mind:
- Your choice of tone or style of music
- Any critical information for narration
Communications and Marketing
630 Pioneer Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4482
(location map)
(248) 370-3184
fax: (248) 370-3182
Communications and Marketing
630 Pioneer Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4482
(location map)
(248) 370-3184
fax: (248) 370-3182