DVD authoring is the process of creating a DVD video that can be played on a DVD player.

DVD authoring needs to conform to specifications set by the specifications set by the DVD Forum group in 1995. DVD authoring is a separate process from MPEG2 encoding, but most modern DVD authoring software has a built-in encoder to handle this process as well. In addition, most DVD authorizing devices do not support the creation of DVD-Audio discs.

There are plenty of different DVD authoring software's available in the market. A consumer needs to decide on the features that he or she is interested in before choosing DVD authoring software.

DVD authoring software typically performs three functions: encoding video, menu authoring and burning the disc. A consumer needs to ensure that the DVD authorizing software comes with a built in MPEG2 encoder. This is because MPEG2 encoding is a complicated process which is best handled by DVD authoring software.

CD or DVD replicating using a CD or DVD authoring software to make the master is remarkably easy these days. All that an individual has to do is assemble the project, and then click on the "burn" button in the DVD or CD authoring software.

Menu authoring is a process of DVD authoring by which an individual can create attractive and functional menus. Most typical menus have a background image, a title and smaller thumbnail images that represent the various chapters or movies on the disc. Many DVD authoring menus have submenus that can be used for complex DVDs. However, DVD mastering engineers need to be weary of authoring DVDs that are not too complicated. Otherwise, it can lead to confusion among DVD users.

Some DVD authoring software will also allow users to add animations to the DVD. Most DVD authoring software will allow the user to animate the background and the individual menu thumbnails.

Adding background music to DVD menus through DVD authoring software can be tricky. But when done well, the results are very pleasing.