Types Of Video Conferencing
Video conferencing is a way to connect people via live video and audio meetings. Video conferencing software is used in many industries including education, government, medical and business. There are different types of video conferencing systems that can be used for different purposes. The most common way that businesses make use of video conferencing is to be able to conduct meetings with team members or clients on a regular basis and not have the need for them to travel long distances, which can save time and money. It’s also a great way for businesses to stay in touch with their clients, as well as have the ability to communicate quickly and effectively.
There is a common mistake people make when it comes to video conferencing, especially when using it in business. They simply assume that all video conferencing is all the same. The assumption of this principle is partly correct but not entirely, they are correct in a way by understanding that video conferencing is a means of virtual communication. It’s crucial that customers understand what video conferencing is all about, as there is a variety of types in this “field”. Before businesses make a decision to purchase video conferencing equipment (software and hardware), it’s important that they understand what type of equipment will benefit their company and their industry the most.
What is video conferencing
In an attempt to better understand what type of video conferencing should be used by your business, the concept of video conferencing should be explained.
The short answer to the question ‘what is video conferencing?’ is this: a video conference is a meeting that takes place via live video. This can take place between several people in an office or it can be used by businesses and individuals to connect with customers, clients, partners, etc. Video conferencing is a great way to connect people across the globe by having real-time meetings and conferences without the need for all participants to be in the same location.
Today, video conferencing is used all over the world by a wide range of businesses and individuals across industries. Video conferencing can be done in a number of ways, and there are several different types of video conferencing software available to choose from. It is important to choose the correct type of vide conferencing software and hardware to ensure that video conferencing in your company is working efficiently.
Types of video conferencing
Video conferencing is a comprehensive term that encompasses all technologies used to bring remote people together in a virtual meeting. The most common type of video conferencing is desktop sharing, which allows two or more participants to see and hear each other using webcams, microphones and speakers. Video conferencing can be used for any type of meeting or event that requires participants to be in different locations at the same time.
To help you gain a deeper understanding what video conferencing is all about, let’s take a closer look at 3 of the most common types of video conferencing:
1: Desktop and Mobile Video Conferencing
The most common use of desktop video conferencing is seen on desktop computers or laptops. Desktop video conferencing is also known as desktop sharing as it allows users to share their screen, share documents, present slides and videos and so much more. It is a convenient and effective way of communicating with colleagues, clients and customers.
Video conferencing is also available on mobile devices. Mobile video conferencing allows users to conduct business from anywhere in the world by connecting with colleagues, clients and customers through a smartphone or tablet. This type of video conferencing is usually used for meetings, presentations or training sessions and it allows participants to see each other on their computer screens, no matter where they are located.
Desktop and mobile video conferencing is simple to use, any user can install the software and get instant access to communicate. All which is required is a webcam and microphone, which generally these days is included on laptops.
Benefits of Desktop and Mobile Video Conferencing
The benefits of desktop and mobile video conferencing are endless! Users are generally very satisfied with the experience and the ability to see their colleagues, customers and partners in a more personal way. In fact, desktop video conferencing is used by over 50% of organizations today!
Benefits of desktop and mobile video conferencing include:
- Improved communication and collaboration between remote teams.
- Enhanced customer experience through one-to-one video calls with sales reps or support agents.
- Increased employee engagement from the ability to work remotely more often.
- Improved employee satisfaction through the ability to work from home more often.
- Increased productivity and efficiency by reducing travel costs, commuting time and office space requirements.
2: Telepresence Video Conferencing
You commonly see this type of communication in the movies, a life-size video conferencing simulation of all the participants in one room on various screens/monitors at once. It’s the closest representation of a lifelike meeting, where all participants are literally making eye contact with each other. Either the monitors/screens are placed around a desk in a circular shape, or displayed on a screen mounted on the wall. Telepresence is a great way of conducting video conferences as the participants can feel as if they are in the same room.
Telepresence systems are typically used in boardrooms, classrooms, training facilities and medical applications. They are also being used for remote surgeries, where the doctor is able to use a robotic system that enables him/her to be in two places at once.
The technology used to create this lifelike environment is known as telepresence, and it has been around for quite a while.
Benefits of telepresence
Telepresence is the most expensive video conferencing technology. It is also the most immersive, with a 180-degree field of view and panoramic sound. Telepresence systems are used in applications where it is important to have a high degree of visual and audio fidelity.
Benefits of telepresence as method of video conferencing include:
- Immersive video conferencing with a 180-degree field of view and panoramic sound.
- Can be used for applications that require a high degree of visual and audio fidelity, such as education, healthcare and government.
- Telepresence creates an extremely lifelike environment.
- Telepresence allows companies to conduct otherwise impossible remote tasks, such as surgery and client meetings
- Telepresence systems provide a high degree of visual and audio fidelity.
3: Room-Based Video Conferencing
Room-based video conferencing, will commonly always take place from one room only for all meetings, either face to face or video meetings. Screens and projectors are installed into these rooms permanently, this enables easy access for meetings to occur. The rooms are designed to be fairly large in size, so that they can accommodate many people.
Room-based video conferencing is the most common type of video conferencing used today. However, it is not the most flexible, as you are limited to one room and cannot move your meeting. Room-based video conferencing is, however still very popular as it is very easy to use and most organizations have the required infrastructure already in place.
Room-based video conferencing has been around for many years now, and is still in widespread use today.
There are many other types of video conferencing that businesses can use as an advantage to their business.
Benefits of Room-Based Video Conferencing
The main advantage of room-based video conferencing is that it’s very simple to set up, and doesn’t require much technical knowledge or equipment.
Benefits of room-based video conferencing include:
- The video conferencing system is installed in a dedicated room, so it’s not necessary to move around the office.
- The video conferencing system can be used for meetings and presentations.
- The video conferencing system can be used for a variety of applications, such as webinars and online training.
How has video conferencing evolved?
Over the years, video conferencing has evolved from the use of a dedicated room with a video camera and screen to using laptops, smartphones and tablets. The first video conferencing systems were used in rooms equipped with cameras, screens and microphones. Today, video conferencing systems are available as software that can be installed on a computer or mobile device.
Video conferencing were only used by large corporate companies who had the need to meet with companies in a different country. A group of employees would sit around a boardroom table in each location and virtually connect with the use of cameras, screens and microphones. Today, video conferencing is used in thousands of companies to enable things like remote work, client meetings and online training. Video conferencing has completely been revolutionised over the past decade.
What are the basic components of a video conferencing system?
Different video conferencing systems require different components in order to word effectively. The most important components of a video conferencing systems are a camera, microphone and monitor/display device for each participant. A server to manage the audio and video signals from all participants is also an integral component. Network connections for each participant should secure and stable to avoid any interruptions.
What Type Of Video Conferencing Is Best For Your Business?
Video Conferencing has grown to a point where each type can benefit your business differently. It is important to understand the differences between each type of video conferencing, and know the benefits to your business, before making a decision on which is best for your business. It is advised that you consult with a specialist if you are not 100% sure what types of video conferencing you need.
Before you decide to pick one video conferencing type, ensure that it suits your businesses needs.
