Though it may seem rather impersonal at times, the Internet has been bringing people together in online chat rooms for years. Thanks to modern high-speed data connections, businesses now are making good use of Internet Web conferencing, an economical solution to the traditional business trip.
Connecting people and sharing information
The key to Internet conferencing is "Voice over Internet Protocol" (VoIP), which digitally transmits spoken words over the Internet. When combined with streaming video feeds and data transfers, VoIP replaces the traditional telephone conference call with a more versatile alternative.
Each participant needs a high-speed Internet connection, a browser to connect to the conferencing Web site, plus a standard Web camera and headset. As long as everyone is able to connect to the site, you can host business meetings with associates in all 50 states or hold a training seminar for employees in another country.
A cost-saving solution
When used correctly, this technology lets many employees communicate effectively at the same time without extra travel expenses. Internet Web conferencing is especially ideal if you are trying to roll out a new software product to branch offices; a technician can take control of another participant's computer to demonstrate the features of the product on their own terminal.
Secure Internet Web conferencing
Because you will be transmitting sensitive material and discussing company business, it's important to ensure that any Internet Web conferencing takes place in a secure environment. The conference provider should offer 128-bit data encryption during your presentation.
Each participant also should receive a password-protected email containing the access code to the conference on a secure mail server. These emails should only come from the conference host and must not be forwarded or shared with anyone else.
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Pick the right conference provider
Internet conferencing services are quite plentiful, but when shopping around for an online meeting provider, ask the following questions:
How many participants are allowed in one conference?
Does the conference Web site support simultaneous audio, video and slide presentations?
Is private messaging between participants allowed?
Can all participants see each other on a split-screen?
Can the entire conference/presentation be recorded and archived for later use?
What is the per-minute rate for Internet Web conferencing? Is there a flat monthly fee for unlimited conferences?
What kind of documents can be transmitted (Word, Excel Spreadsheets, etc.)?
Are Q&A sessions possible? Can other participants be muted while a question is asked?
Talk to at least 3 or 4 providers to compare their offerings and prices. Start by submitting a free web conferencing quote request – it will put you in touch with multiple providers who will compete for your business.
