My Home 2.0
When Verizon rolled out their ultra high-speed internet service titled FiOS in Philadelphia, they decided the best way to get the word out locally was with a grassroots, locally televised TV show which had the FiOS techs remodel residents homes with high-technology and FiOS internet and cable services. Philadelphia residents could record audition tapes, upload them online and Verizon would choose several lucky homes to remodel, film the process and throw huge block parties to unveil the results. All shows would be shown locally and online at a custom built Youtube channel.
Verizon wanted a site to allow users to upload audition tapes, watch and rate episodes, research FiOS and discuss the show and services in a custom wiki and forum.
Custom video uploader and flash converter
Verizon’s staff needed a video review tool which would allow them to view uploaded videos and take an action on whether they wanted to pass it along, delete it or push it to the Youtube channel. To that end, we programmed the system to convert various video formats into a Flash video file and created a video management system to house the videos and allow the system users to rate them.
Video playlist and rating features via Youtube API
So that we wouldn’t have to worry about procuring a Content Delivery Network (CDN) and to extend the site’s presence to as many potential visitors as possible, we created a branded Youtube channel for the My Home 2.0 show. The 2pointhome website actually consumed the video playlists and user feedback and comments through the Youtube API. Their API was also leveraged to allow users to rate and comment on videos right from the 2pointhome site.
Google Maps integration of community events and FiOS installations
In order to highlight local FiOS related events, we programmed Verizon’s admin tool so they could enter local points of interest with related information. Users on the site would be able to pan around the Philadelphia area and see icons highlighting several of FiOS’ local events and their installation progress.