Video Conferencing How It Works How to Use It Top Platforms
Video Conferencing: How It Works, How to Use It, Top Platforms
What Is Video Conferencing?
Video conferencing is an online technology that allows users in different locations to hold face-to-face meetings without having to move to a single location together. This technology is convenient for business users in different cities or countries because it saves time, expenses, and hassles associated with business travel. Uses for video conferencing include routine meetings, business deal negotiations, and job candidate interviews.
When a video conference is held for informal purposes, it is called a video call or video chat.
Key Takeaways
– Video conferencing allows users in different locations to hold real-time face-to-face meetings at little to no cost.
– Video conferencing can be utilized in various ways, such as company meetings, job training sessions, or addressing board members.
– Video conferencing saw a huge boost during the global COVID-19 pandemic.
– The stability and quality of a video conference may fluctuate based on the data connection speed and reliability.
– Video conferencing can be conducted using smartphones, tablets, or desktop computers.
How Video Conferencing Works
Video conferencing’s main advantage over telephone conference calls is the ability to see each other, which allows for stronger relationships.
Video conferencing can be conducted in various ways. Individuals may use web cameras connected to or built into laptops, tablets, or desktop computers. Smartphones and other connected mobile devices with cameras can also be used. In these instances, a software-based platform is typically used to transmit communication over internet protocols.
Some businesses use dedicated video conferencing rooms equipped with high-grade cameras and screens to ensure clear conversations with limited technical faults. Third-party providers often install and assemble the necessary hardware for video conferences.
The stability and quality of a video conference may fluctuate based on one’s internet data connection speed and reliability.
Uses of Video Conferencing
Companies with multiple offices might establish direct video communications between their locations to enable collaborative work.
Video conferencing can also be used for training purposes, with instructors teaching remote classes from almost anywhere. This is especially useful in a corporate context, where workers can acquire the knowledge they need to perform their jobs better. Video conferencing can also connect traditional classrooms with students located far from the school, benefiting the academic world.
A video conference can be used to conduct regular meetings with company staff or to confer with shareholders about the latest business activities. It can also be used to announce significant changes at a company, such as introducing a new CEO, or to present information in an interactive way that allows all participants to engage in on-screen discussion.
Hotels and conference centers sometimes provide video conferencing services for guests who require them. These services may be available in suites or conference rooms specifically equipped for video conferencing.
Video Conferencing During the 2020-21 COVID-19 Pandemic
Video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype, and Microsoft Teams experienced a surge in interest and use during the 2020-21 COVID-19 pandemic, as lockdowns forced individuals worldwide to work from home and attend online classes.
Video conferencing allowed professionals to meet with clients and conduct one-on-one consultations, including financial advisors, therapists, tutors, and lawyers. Some legal proceedings and court cases even transitioned entirely to video conferencing during parts of the pandemic. Doctors and other medical professionals significantly increased their adoption of telehealth compared to before the pandemic.
Video conferencing allowed professionals to meet with clients and conduct one-on-one consultations, including financial advisors, therapists, tutors, and lawyers. Some legal proceedings and court cases even transitioned entirely to video conferencing during parts of the pandemic. Doctors and other medical professionals significantly increased their adoption of telehealth compared to before the pandemic.
