Video conferencing vs. Audio web conferencing

Organizations are generally confused whether to use audio web conferencing or video conferencing to communicate with their clients, stakeholders, members and all other relevant individuals. Both types of conferences have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to analyze the needs and requirements of an organization before choosing on one of these conferences.

Audio web conferencing uses the latest VoIP technology to transmit voice over the internet. This facilitates a better voice clarity and reception. Further, VoIP technology is very cost effective since it converts the voice into packets and then sends it across. This ensures that only the relevant part of the conversation is sent across and the silence part is left behind, thereby saving on the internet charges. Latest equipments such as Cisco conferencing bridge enable the facilitation of an increasing number of members to the conference without affecting its quality. Further, Cisco conferencing bridge offers additional features such as a scheduler and auto dialer to improve the productivity of a conference.

Video conferencing equipment, on the other hand enables the transmission of video images across the internet. This acts as a close replica to a physical meeting, thereby producing similar results at a much lower cost. Video conferencing equipment working on the revolutionary VoIP technology further facilitate the transfer of data, files and presentations during the course of a conference. This is particularly helpful in corporate meetings and meetings with clients who are located at a far away place.

Now, which type of conferencing to choose would depend on the specific requirements of the organization. Audio web conferencing is more suitable to smaller organizations that don’t have a frequent need to conference and do not require transfer of data, files and presentations during the course of the conference. There have been a lot of technological advancements in the field of audio conference, and a lot of new products such as wireless headsets have come up that allow unconstrained mobility during the conference. If there is a frequent need to have conferences with important members such as clients and members then video conferencing would be the ideal choice since it provides a similar atmosphere as that of a real meeting. Moreover, technologically advanced video conferencing equipment such as a high resolution web camera or a TV screen that can supportmultiple members, can further enhance the effectiveness of a video conference.

Since both the conferences have their own advantages, it is advisable to carefully analyze the needs of your organization and then take a decision regarding which conferencing system to set up.