What Is Web Conferencing?

What is web conferencing? Let us count the ways…

1. It is a real-time meeting conducted via the Internet between two or more participants over an infinite distance.

2. It is a way people can meet face-to-face, anytime, anywhere, using even basic hardware (online computer, microphone, webcam optional) and minimal software (browser or free software download).

3. It is an increasingly popular means of communication, estimated to grow in market demand by as much as 60%–70% each year.

4. It is a fast evolving business tool, which definition changes with each additional interactive feature.

5. It has evolved from simple audio/video, headset/webcam into real-time presentations, dynamic file transfers, remote document editing/updating, user polls, virtual whiteboards, etc.

6. It extends the Internet’s capability by being a great way for people to meet, exchange information, and collaborate.

7. It is a multi-experience meeting that directly benefits from developments in broadband and wireless Internet technology, gaining more flexibility with every advancement.

8. It enables a cost-effective alternative to long-distance calls and a separate phone line. Both voice and data can now travel via Internet connection because of breakthrough VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology.

9. It is a mode of collaboration that is rapidly becoming a core business application, mostly due to the dynamic evolution of e-commerce as well as e-training.

10. Due to enterprise demand for greater integration of its CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and LMS (Learning Management System) as well as other core capabilities, it is a way of meeting that, in a couple of years, businesses will view on the same level as their phone system or website.

11. It is something that has created a huge impact on business and education, providing a cost-effective yet efficient way to communicate and learn.

12. It is a vital communication tool for business that substantially reduces the need to spend on travel (gas, parking, airfare, car rentals, hotel accommodations, allowances).

13. It is a boon to productivity because it reduces the need for delays and time spent on travel (traffic, waiting, late/cancelled flights, actual travel time, etc.).

14. It promotes coordination in the business environment, leading to greater efficiency and less errors.

15. As a technology, it is relatively inexpensive, scalable, and widely available—and can cost next to nothing via free software downloads.

Web conferencing is for everyone. And it will continue to change the way people view the Internet as it allows them to experience the infinite possibilities online technology has to offer.