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Guide to Video Conferencing Solutions
Technology can connect distant co-workers and clients
By Tonya Vinas
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Video conferencing tools have finally become fast enough to be considered efficient. The growing range of video conference equipment and services all radically exceed what was available just a few years ago, whether software, hardware or a mixture of both. Video conferencing can be used as: - A way to include off-site employees in meetings or connect a diverse group of employees.
- Make presentations to clients and customers.
- Educate employees, distributors and others without everyone traveling to one site.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
 Out-of-the-box video conferencing solutions
The latest operating systems tend to come preloaded with some basic video conferencing tools. These are fine for small-group meetings of familiar people.
I recommend: Microsoft Corp.'s NetMeeting is preinstalled with Windows. Apple's latest computers have built-in cameras, iChat and other tools for meeting electronically.
Video conferencing for the masses
For video conferencing that will involve a lot of clients or a larger group, you may want professional help and to use more sophisticated hardware.
I recommend: Some leading vendors in this area include PolyCom and Tandberg.
Web-based video conference offerings
Some companies prefer to buy hosted, or Web-based, solutions for video conferencing that they can start using immediately.
I recommend: One company offering this is Camfrog Web; another is WebEx. Or check out the listings on Business.com video conferencing software page.
Use manners
Video conferencing does require following rules of etiquette, such as making sure your image is received well on the other end.
I recommend: Free tips on video conferencing etiquette are available at the Video Development Initiative and Emily Post Institute.
Consider video conferencing equipment
Another option to consider is the lease or purchase of video conference equipment, especially if a high-definition experience is what you're after.
I recommend: Comparison shop the listings on Business.com video conferencing equipment page.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Be sure to have good lighting and remove distracting items from the background. If the program you are using has a "self-view" function, use it.
- Make use of tools such as chat functions and document-sending to improve communications and keep the meeting going.
- Don't forget to take breaks, just like an in-person meeting.
The official source of Video Conferencing Solutions is
the Video Conferencing page at Business.com
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 Recommended Solution Providers | Back to top |
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Features easy installation, firewall compatibility, and secure conferencing technology that only a customer-premise solution can provide.
Communicate and collaborate with anyone, anywhere, any time.
Offers real-time video conferencing, desktop sharing, internet voice, web conferencing, and collaboration services.
Provides conferencing equipment such as video phones, video conference sets, and video accessories.
Offers a free trial period for online business meetings worldwide.
Offers audio, web and videoconferencing services worldwide.
Global company in video communications.
Advanced voice, video, and data communications.
Supplies software, information and a free demo for conferencing.
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 Best Sites to Learn More | Back to top |
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Collection of articles discussing tips, pricing, and service features.
Offers advice, as well as comments on technology and hardware.
This service provider contains a section on general conferencing tips that includes call organizing, transcriptions, and etiquette.
Reviews of video conferencing technologies.
Analyzes the market trends, technologies/products, vendors, applications, and related services in the rich media conferencing & collaboration marketplace.
Section contains several articles involving communications topics, including a basic understanding for telecom technology.
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 Best Blogs and Forums | Back to top |
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Allows users to ask their toughest product, service, or technical questions.
Conferencing portal for audio, video, web entries.
A blog about messaging and collaboration technologies.
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