webconferencereports.com What Is Web Conferencing

webconferencereports

Home - News - Articles - Compare - Reviews - Technology - FAQ's - Contact

Web Conferencing Basics

What is Web Conferencing?

Web conferencing is a virtual meeting conducted via the Web between two or more participants in different locations. Text, audio and video may be used to communicate in real time. Features such as whiteboarding and shared applications can make the conference truly collaborative.

When the conference is essentially one-way, for example one person conducting a presentation for a large audience, it is often referred to as "Webcasting." Webcasts can be recorded and streamed over the Internet, or archived for viewing at a later time.

Uses for Web Conferencing

Here is a list of the most common Web conferencing applications.

Product launches
Software demonstrations
Press briefings
Focus groups
Brainstorming sessions
Marketing seminars
Large-scale events
Staff meetings
Human resources broadcasts
Employee orientation and training
New product training
Shareholder meetings
Investor road shows
Distance learning
Sales presentations

Why Use Web Conferencing?

The benefits to using Web conferencing in all these cases are savings in time and travel costs and the ability to meet quickly, or "on-demand.

It has also been shown that when people hear and see new information, they remember more than if they had just seen or just heard it.

What Do I Need to Conduct a Web Conference?

Practically anyone can conduct a basic web conference with a computer, current Web browser, a phone, and an Internet connection of 56kbps or better. Voice over IP (VoIP) can be used instead of a regular phone connection. You will also need to use Web conferencing software, which is available on monthly and annual subscriptions, or on a pay-as-you-go basis.

How Much Does Web Conferencing Cost?

Costs vary quite a bit across the industry. Before comparing costs, it's important to understand what they are based on. First, with hosted solutions, you can pay as you go, or subscribe to a monthly or annual plan. Costs are determined by usage, which is made up of the number of minutes online and the number of users, or "seats." Some plans can costs as little as $.15 per user/per minute. For additional fees you can add-on features such as recording, archiving, registration, event planning, and operator assistance. Software solutions that are licensed and installed on your own servers can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

How Do I Choose a Vendor?

First identify what features you need. Will you be presenting to large groups, or to just a few people at a time? Do you need to share applications, or just present PowerPoint slides? This will help you narrow down the list of vendors that meet your criteria. A list of vendors is available in our reviews section along with many ratings and comments. Most services offer a free trial, which you should take advantage of.

| | | | | |