Choosing the right internet conference call service
One of the most productive tools to emerge for business users has been the advent of the internet conference call. Conference call services such as those offered by such companies as ConferenceCall.com, 800 conference call, and Webex have become popular additions to existing company conference systems and in many instances have replaced them all together. What makes these systems advantageous is that they allow callers both in and outside of an organization to collaborate via the web and in many cases via streaming video.
There are many things to keep in mind when choosing a web-based conference call service. While price for many is a consideration, choosing the lowest per minute charge may not be the best option if the need for pricey optional features should arise. Besides price other options to consider are the time-window that a particular service offers for conference calls and/or video conference. While most in North America follow a traditional work week, do not forget that in this global marketplace our employees, customers, and vendors may be in an altogether different region.
With a trend toward highly mobile and decentralized work environment an option that allows for Toll-Free conference calling may be beneficial for those seeking to avoid toll charges.
In a web conference, each participant sits at their own computer, and is connected to other participants by means of the internet. Most services feature screen sharing, where conference participants are allowed to see whatever content displayed on the presenter's screen. The audio portion of the conference call is supplied through a traditional telephone conference, or through VoIP. (Voice over IP)
Features
Web Conferencing services typically offer the following features:
• Screen sharing
• Slide presentations (often created through PowerPoint)
• Application sharing: Participants can control an application
on the presenter's computer (Web browsers, spreadsheets, databases,
etc.)
• Annotation (allowing the presenter to highlight or mark items on
the display)
• Text messaging
• File sharing
• Polls and surveys
• Web conferencing software that allows recording of conferences for
later playback
Choosing
Web conferencing is typically sold as a service based on either on a time basis or per seat cost. Many vendors will create custom portals for large organizations or license their software for internal usage. Additionally there are services that operate in a decentralized method utilizing a direct connection between conference participants. (Similar to messaging & chat programs)
With online collaboration being a large draw for many users of web conference systems there is an important need to insure compatibility amongst systems. Tools and software that may work fine on a PC may not have equivalents on Mac-based systems. Search for tools and services that use widely accepted technologies. (Flash, Office LiveMeeting, etc.)
The same is also applicable for video. With a large number of conference call services streaming video/applications it is important to seek one that supports the largest possible audience. In addition to software compatibility, bandwidth considerations are also important if the call is to include video conference call type services. This media-rich type of conference call can tax performance if the connection is not particularly robust.
With the advent of inexpense broadband, VoIP communication, and webcams the lines between web conferencing and video conferencing are rapidly disappearing.
Finally, your timeframe for the conference call can be a big factor in choosing a conference call service as most require account creations. Many services allow instant conferencing capabilities once a credit card or similar method of payment is rendered.
Providers that offer this service typically have reservation less conferencing systems that allow conference calls at a moments notice.
Some of the companies offering this service are:
- att call conference
- 800 conference call
- internet conference call
- Webex
With the convergence of audio, web, and video conferencing on the web
the remote user will continue to enjoy their flexible environment while
maintaining an aura of professionalism.
