Video conferencing has been used commercially since the 1970s and is designed to connect groups, rather than individuals, through a simultaneous audio and video connection. Each participant needs access to the internet as well as a webcam and screen, whether this is a computer, or via a plasma screen, and a microphone and set of speakers.
Video conferencing is being used more and more often in the business world for presentations, training, board meetings etc. In this article, we will be looking at what the real benefits to businesses are.
Video conferencing saves time
When it''s necessary to gather delegates from numerous different locations, video conferencing saves a huge amount of time in travel. Meetings can start promptly without being delayed due to public transport or traffic and employees lose only a minimum amount of time from their working day. This is crucial for many companies, particularly SMEs, where having an employee out of the office for a significant amount of time can have huge implications to work load.
Video conferencing saves money
Using video conferencing removes the need for costs associated with travel and overnight stays, allowing delegates from around the globe to meet for just a fraction of the amount. This can be as low as just the cost of your internet connection thanks to Skype, and other web based services, making the service more cost effective yet.
Video conferencing is better for the environment
Video conferencing offers a far more environmentally friendly alternative to holding a face to face meeting, particularly if there is substantial travel involved such as going overseas. Keeping the corporate carbon footprint down is becoming more and more important to businesses and therefore video conferencing helps avoid unnecessary travel whilst not jeopardising crucial business opportunities.
Video conferencing enhances business relationships
Establishing relationships between colleagues, clients and suppliers is fundamental to running a successful business and face to face meetings are the best way to facilitate this. However, when these are not possible, holding a ''face to face'' video conference can be an effective alternative to meeting in person. Having the opportunity to present, catch up or simply brainstorm in front of others via a video conference is a great way to promote effective working and maintain business relationships already in place.
How to get started?
The best way to hold a video conference is either to use a web based service via your PC, or to use the facilities of a meeting room provider, such as serviced offices. At Avanta, we offer the equipment in our meeting rooms for a small hire fee and do not charge for IP to IP calls. The benefits also include only hiring the equipment as and when you need it as well as having a well trained team on hand to help with the equipment so you can get to business right away.
As you can see, using video conferencing is a cost effective and environmentally friendly way to hold business meetings and is gaining in popularity year on year. Contact Avanta on info@avanta.co.uk or 0870 0493 401 for more information