Best Benefit Ever: A Bevy of Debate Videos

What is it? It’s no secret that everyone is trying to leverage the booming popularity of video. As associations experiment with video production or build out their YouTube communities, many run across a common stumbling block: actually creating video content. But, by its very nature, the National Speech & Debate Association  (opens in a new tab) is well-positioned, given that it already has a huge archive of performances and competitions perfectly suited for member consumption. And that’s just what the association has done  (opens in a new tab). Members can turn to the association’s vast supply of webinars, covering topics such as speechwriting fundamentals or prepping for competitions  (opens in a new tab). Or they can skip the tutorials and learn by example by combing through the archive of National Speech & Debate Tournament performances, stretching back to 1983. Sure, members can also access valuable resources  (opens in a new tab) in the form of online textbooks, script databases, and evidence guides, but having an extensive suite of video resources ensures that all of the association’s benefit bases are covered.

Why it works. When it comes to digital content, video reigns supreme. But there’s a big gap between having video and making it digestible for audiences, which is why the National Speech & Debate Association’s efforts are so successful. By combining its archives with ongoing coverage of current events, competitions, and webinars, the association is steadily building out a valuable resource that will endure for members and, most importantly, won’t cause them to turn to other sources of information.

Other benefits. Of course, not everything the National Speech & Debate Association does is based on video. Access to in-person training sessions  (opens in a new tab), networking events, and coaching clinics is a central benefit, as is the chance for competitive members to take part in District Tournaments  (opens in a new tab) that could lead to a qualification for the renowned National Speech & Debate Tournament  (opens in a new tab).

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