Online video conferencing can only work after setting up your computer with an internet connection and some other items. These include camera, microphone, speakers, and teleconferencing software so they can talk to each other and send data files.
The ability of this technology to share data allows both parties to see the same thing and enter reviews instantly. This is known as document sharing or collaboration, which is a standard feature in most online video conferencing packages today.
For those who want more than peer-to-peer document sharing, there is multipoint document sharing. This means that three or more participants work on the same thing at the same time. The best part about point-to-point or multipoint is the fact that users don’t have to stop what they are doing during file transfers so they can continue with the rest of their work.
Another feature of online video conferencing is real-time chat. You may be familiar with this by now if you’ve ever used IRC or yahoo messenger in the past as it allows you to send short text messages. If you are talking to one party and you have to reply to another, you can use this without interrupting anyone.
Similar to document sharing or collaboration is the whiteboard. Here, you can share documents, edit texts, make graphical diagrams, and much more. You can make corrections by clicking or typing something so that everything is accurate.
Other features of online video conferencing programs include online directories, special dialing options, and address books. Again, this depends on the package you choose to get if your company is willing to invest in such a system.
The most expensive thing to buy when looking for a video conferencing system online is the audio and video system. This is because you want to see and hear the other person clearly. Also, the more expensive versions don’t use as much of your computer’s processor.
When looking for the ideal system, talk to different companies and vendors. This will allow you to compare their prices and what comes with their packages.
The best part about online video conferencing is that it is easy to use once installed. Just make sure your processor exceeds the minimum requirement so that the software can work properly without any glitches.
Regarding your network connection, make sure the company is using a LAN (local area network) or a high-speed cable modem. After all, you want to talk to the other party in real time, as well as send and receive files.
Last but not least, there is the online video conferencing software that you will be using. If you choose a system, make sure it is compatible with those provided by other companies so that there are no limitations on what you are using.
Surprisingly, the compatibility issues extend to the hardware category as well, so keep that in mind when shopping.
Online video conferencing allows you to work from different locations without having to pay for airfare and travel expenses that cost a business thousands of dollars a year. If you are still not sure about getting such a system, you can check out the places that offer this type of service.