The Video Summit 2024 brought together a variety of experts to discuss the power of video in modern communication. Among them was Ola Johansson, Media Technician and Video Producer at Skara Municipality, who shared a fascinating look at how video has transformed the public sector over the last decade. His presentation was not just about technical know-how—it was an entertaining and insightful story of growth, innovation, and community engagement.
From humble beginnings to dynamic Video Strategy
Ola’s journey with Skara Municipality began in 2014 when the city started streaming municipal council meetings. Initially, it was a simple setup—far from the sophisticated production we see today. Over the years, Ola and his team have elevated their video strategy, focusing on accessibility and engagement while showcasing Skara’s unique charm.
One of the highlights of his talk was the stunning visual of Skara’s Stadshus (City Hall), a building so iconic that it’s often compared to Hogwarts. Ola captured its grandeur with drone footage, adding a magical touch to their storytelling.
Three pillars of Skara’s Video Strategy
Ola outlined the municipality’s video efforts across three main areas:
- Specialized Applications
Video isn’t just for communication in Skara—it’s also used for services like family therapy sessions. The municipality utilizes secure, encrypted platforms to record and analyze sessions, ensuring privacy while improving service quality. - External Communication
Skara uses video to connect with residents on a wide range of topics—from live-streaming municipal meetings to covering events like music school concerts and graduation ceremonies. The city has also created a ”Skara Play” platform, making video content available on-demand for residents. - Internal Communication
The pandemic pushed the team to develop a robust internal video system. From hybrid meetings to staff training, video became a vital tool for keeping employees informed and engaged. Features like live polling, chat functionality, and chaptered recordings allowed for seamless transitions between in-person and online collaboration.
Bringing municipal council meetings to life
Ola shared his passion for making municipal council meetings more engaging and accessible. Recognizing that these meetings are essential for local democracy but often perceived as dull, Ola’s team has worked to transform the viewing experience.
Here’s how they did it:
- Leveraging Social Media: Sharing clips, highlights, and meeting links ahead of time to spark interest.
- Involving Politicians: Encouraging council members to promote meetings on their own channels to amplify reach.
- Adding Visual Flair: Using graphics, lower thirds, and clear speaker identification to make live streams look professional and polished.
- Innovative Engagement: Hosting events like “Democracy Week,” where students asked politicians candid questions, creating memorable and relatable content.
Key takeaways: Make it accessible and engaging
As Skara celebrates 10 years of public video, the future looks bright. Ola and his team continue to innovate, ensuring that video remains a cornerstone of their communication strategy. Whether you’re tuning in live, catching up later on Skara Play, or attending an event in their breathtaking Stadshus, Skara is proving that even small municipalities can lead the way in digital communication.
Ola’s final message? “Create engagement, package it beautifully, and make it accessible for everyone.” It’s advice we can all take to heart, whether we’re working in the public sector or beyond.
Ready to be inspired? Check out Skara Play for some incredible content from this pioneering municipality.
Watch the full speaker slot (In Swedish)👇
Nils Sundsteigen on stage at Video Summit 2024.
