What is video conferencing? A video conference is a meeting or series of meetings held using computer-based video equipment. Multipoint or point-to-point video chat is available. A significant benefit of a video conferencing system is that it only requires one network connection, which means that all sites participating can share information without delay because they do not need to rely on additional network links between them.
Moreover, video conferencing is a tool that enables real-time communication over the internet. Teleconferencing and online conferencing are other terms for it. It can be used for online meetings, lectures, interviews, and other interactions between people in various parts of the world. Cameras and microphones are used in video conferencing systems to send real-time audio and video over the internet, but other communication technologies such as VoIP (Voice over IP) or instant messaging may also be used.
Here are the types of video conferencing:
- Desktop Video Conferencing: This form of video conferencing enables users to conduct virtual meetings from their desktop or laptop computer. Typically, it entails software or a web-based platform that facilitates real-time audio and video communication, screen sharing, and collaborative tools. Desktop Video Conferencing is the initial stage towards a more streamlined conferencing experience. It enables users to initiate a video contact with a single click, allowing them to communicate face-to-face without having to set up a room or a meeting. Your team members can also use desktop video conferencing to share their screens, collaborate on documents and presentations, or simply catch up on life events.
- Room-Based Video Conferencing: A more sophisticated form of video conferencing that is intended for use in conference rooms or other large meeting spaces is room-based. It usually includes specialized hardware such as cameras, microphones, and displays, as well as specialized software for conference management. The majority of online conferences are held in a dedicated conference room. It requires a gathering space outfitted with a camera and a screen so that attendees can see one another. Different technologies are used for these conferences, but Ethernet cables or wireless networks are typically used to link the cams together. Advantages of room-based conferencing include easy set-up and use, the ability to share documents via screen sharing or by printing them out on paper and placing them in front of participants’ faces when they speak, and the ability to record meetings for later review or as training material.
- Mobile video conferencing: Mobile video conferencing enables individuals to participate in virtual meetings using their mobile devices, such as smartphones and laptops. Mobile video conferencing is also known as mobile teleconferencing. It frequently requires the utilization of specialized apps that enable real-time voice and video communication, screen sharing, and other collaborative features to be able to function properly.
- A webinar is a form of video conferencing in which one or more presenters give a presentation to a large audience. Typically, webinars involve one or more presenters presenting the presentation. While participants can engage with the presenters via chat or other communication tools, the primary emphasis is on the presentation itself rather than on collaborative conversation.
- Live streaming is the process of broadcasting a video conference or other form of event in real time over the internet. Live streaming can also be referred to as webcasting. It enables a large audience to participate in the event remotely and generally requires specialized software or hardware for capturing and broadcasting the video and audio. It also makes it possible for the audience to participate in the event.
In conclusion. Video conferencing is no longer limited to office meetings and webinars. With tools such as Skype, Google Hangouts, and Facetime, we can now video conference with individuals from around the globe, regardless of our location. However, not all video conferencing platforms have the same capabilities, nor are they priced similarly. The difficulty lies in determining which option best meets your requirements. If a business intends to hold recurring video conferences, such as a weekly online seminar delivered through an online portal, the cost of entry will likely be higher than if it only intends to conduct one-time meetings with attendees from across the globe.
Need to deploy a new solution for your video conference or simply revamp your video conference systems? Beyontel is a vendor-agnostic IT consulting company specializing in VoIP and cloud-based unified communications. Reach out to us today for proper guidance!