MinistryCentral Europe
1. Purpose of This Document
This document defines how video is embedded and referenced within MinistryCentral Europe documentation and learning materials.
It exists to ensure that:
- Video is used consistently
- Canonical documentation remains clear and authoritative
- Pages remain performant and readable
- Media usage aligns with editorial and platform standards
This document applies to usage, not hosting or intake.
2. Guiding Principle
Video supports documentation — it does not replace it.
Text remains the primary carrier of meaning, authority, and structure.
Video is additive and contextual.
3. Where Video May Be Embedded
Video may be embedded in:
- Course lessons (primary teaching)
- Supporting instructional sections
- Onboarding or orientation guides
- Technical walkthroughs (when visual clarity helps)
Video should not be embedded:
- As a substitute for written instructions
- In governance or policy documents
- Excessively or decoratively
4. Approved Embedding Sources
Only the following sources may be embedded:
- Vimeo (canonical instructional content)
- Loom (short, supplemental guidance)
Embeds from:
- YouTube
- Personal cloud links
- Temporary sources
are not permitted.
5. Embedding Standards
When embedding video:
- Place video after a section header, not mid-paragraph
- Provide a short text introduction explaining:
- What the video covers
- Why it is included
- Avoid autoplay
- Avoid stacking multiple videos back-to-back without explanation
Example:
The following video demonstrates the lesson structure discussed above.
6. Referencing Video Without Embedding
In some cases, it is preferable to reference video rather than embed it.
This is appropriate when:
- Video is optional
- Video is supplementary
- Page performance is a concern
In such cases:
- Provide a clear link
- Indicate expected duration
- Clarify whether viewing is required or optional
7. Canonical Authority Rule
- Embedded video does not create authority
- Canonical text governs meaning
- If video content conflicts with text, text prevails
- Video updates do not override documentation without review
Editors must ensure alignment.
8. Accessibility & Usability
Where feasible:
- Videos should include captions
- Audio should be intelligible
- Key points should be summarized in text
Documentation must remain usable even if video cannot be viewed.
9. Performance Considerations
Avoid:
- Autoplay
- Excessive embeds on a single page
- Large numbers of videos without structure
Performance degradation is grounds for revision.
10. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- ❌ Embedding video without context
- ❌ Replacing instructions with video alone
- ❌ Using video to introduce policy or authority
- ❌ Embedding unapproved sources
- ❌ Ignoring page readability
11. Relationship to Other Documents
This document works with:
- Video Usage Policy
- Media Intake & Naming Standards
- Formatting & Style Guidelines
- Documentation Workflow
It does not define hosting, intake, or governance.
12. Summary
- Embed video deliberately
- Always pair video with explanatory text
- Use approved platforms only
- Preserve canonical authority in writing
- Optimize for clarity, not media density