Screencast: Share Media and Screen Sessions
Managing and Sharing Media Files with Screencast
Several writers at MUO appreciate the Jing screen capture application due to its efficiency and practical features. As you may have observed, screenshots are frequently used within our articles.
Recently, while utilizing the program, it became apparent that previous articles concerning Jing hadn't fully explored its associated web-based image management service, Screencast. Hosted and powered by TechSmith, Screencast offers both free and professional subscription options, mirroring Jing’s structure.
Screencast: Cloud-Based Media Management
Screencast provides a convenient method for managing and sharing your image and video captures beyond your local computer, storing them securely in the cloud on TechSmith’s servers. Upon creating a free account, all uploaded files are organized within your personal library.
The library interface is designed to be clean and professional. However, the methods for managing and sharing content may not be immediately intuitive to all users.
Once content is uploaded – either through Jing or direct file uploads – it is, by default, publicly accessible for sharing with anyone. Access restrictions can be implemented, as detailed below.
You can upload any image or video file to your library, not just screen captures created with Jing. For frequent users, the free Screencast Uploader is recommended for efficiently uploading large files or batches of media. Saving files to your hard drive before uploading to your account provides a valuable backup.
Organizing with Folders
Creating folders within your Screencast library mirrors the process on your computer. Simply click the Create Folder button and specify the desired name and associated information.
You have the ability to control who can access your folders. This is particularly useful for creating private folders or restricting access to clients, colleagues, or organizational members. To adjust folder permissions, click the Change button, which presents four access options.
After saving a folder, you can reopen it for editing its name or privacy settings. Each folder is assigned a unique URL for easy sharing online. This URL is accessible by hovering your cursor over the folder and clicking the three-arrows icon.
The generated URL links allow you to email or post links directly to the folder’s content, effectively creating a basic image gallery.
Moving files between folders functions similarly to your computer’s file management system. Click the Move Content button to access a list of all your content and rearrange files and folders as needed.
Utilizing Jing Playlists
The Playlist option offers a quick way to create and manage collections of media. Click the Create Playlist button on your library’s homepage, and a list of all your content will appear. Select the items you wish to include in the playlist.
Sharing a playlist presents viewers with a basic image gallery display of the selected content. The playlist name is displayed in the upper left corner of the page. Unfortunately, customization options for playlist titles, such as size or centering, are currently unavailable.
Finally, each file and folder displays details including size, modification date, and view count. Access view count information by clicking the list view button on your library homepage.
While the Screencast Pro account ($99/year) provides increased storage, bandwidth, and customization options, the free account is remarkably generous and practical for sharing screen captures and videos as an alternative to platforms like YouTube or Flickr. The Jing application simplifies the capture process and seamless uploading to your account.
Despite a few desired features, Jing and Screencast are becoming preferred solutions for screen capturing. Given the ongoing evolution of the Jing project, future updates promise even more exciting capabilities.
We are interested to hear about the screen capturing applications and services you utilize. Have you experimented with Jing, and if so, what has your experience been?
