Compare video versions and approve the right cut
Keep feedback attached to the selected aspect ratio and version, compare revisions, and verify which cut received approval.
Updated 16 September 2026
Add revisions as versions, select the intended aspect ratio and cut, then ask the client to approve that selection. Replacing the media behind a film is a different operation. Use versions when the earlier edit and its notes need to remain available.
Record what the comparison decided
Record what the comparison decided
Before comparing, label both exports with their actual version names. Write down which request the comparison is meant to settle: a title correction, a different shot or a revised music mix. A general impression that the newer version is better does not identify which requests were addressed.
After the review, record the selected version and unresolved exceptions. Keep the original request timecode even if the revised edit moved that moment. A project report should explain the decision rather than merely list two filenames.
A concrete two-cut review
- Keep V1 and upload V2 as the next version of the same deliverable. Use clear labels such as “V2 · music revision.”
- Send the review link with the expected aspect and version in your instructions. Check that the link exposes only the versions you intend the recipient to see.
- In the room, choose the aspect and version. Use comparison for the current and previous cuts; slide mode reveals one against the other, and stacked mode shows both.
- Ask the client to leave timestamped comments on the selected cut, resolve the agreed notes, then approve the named version.
- Read back the recorded version and aspect before final delivery. A newer upload is not evidence that the new cut has been approved.
What the comparison actually does
The player synchronizes the selected current and previous versions. Audio comes from the current cut, and comparison ends at the shorter duration. If either file cannot play, resolve that playback issue before relying on the comparison. This is a revision comparison, not a calibrated color reference or an automatic visual-difference test.
For horizontal, vertical and square deliveries, first choose the correct aspect. Keep aspect-specific feedback with that selection; use an apply-to-all option only when the note truly applies to all deliverables.
Keep comments and approval in context
UC stores feedback with an aspect and version number, and records approvals against a specific aspect/version. A reviewer name provides context; a typed name on an anonymous link is not independently verified identity or a legal signature.
When fresh feedback changes an approved cut’s state, inspect the approval again before delivering. Agree who has final sign-off authority outside the tool when multiple stakeholders disagree. A workflow status does not establish contractual acceptance by itself.
Check access as the recipient
Open the share link signed out and confirm playback, visible versions, comment rights and download rights. External reviewers do not require a paid team seat. Passwords, expiry and link roles may still restrict access; possession of any arbitrary UC URL is not a promise of review permission.
See the review room and client instructions. For a closed project, revoke unnecessary links and keep an independent copy of the approved master and agreed delivery record.
Frequently asked
How do I compare two edits and collect approval on the correct version?
Keep both as versions of the same deliverable, select the intended aspect and current version, compare it with the previous cut, and request approval on that selection. Verify the recorded aspect and version before delivery.
How can I keep feedback attached to the right aspect ratio and version?
Choose the aspect and version before commenting. UC records both with the feedback. State the intended selection in the client instructions and avoid applying a note to every aspect unless it really applies to each.
Does comparison play both soundtracks?
No. The comparison uses the current cut’s audio and stops at the shorter version. Check alternate audio mixes separately.
Is an approval a certified signature?
No. The review state and reviewer name are a workflow record, not a claim of verified identity, legal signature or compliance certification.
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