Simple Long Distance Communication With Video Conferencing

Even though it is now possible to travel across hundreds of miles in a few hours, it's so much easier to attend a meeting through online video conferencing using the internet. Simple communication using the internet and web collaboration from the comfort of your office or home is the latest in technology and many businesses are reaping the financial benefits from it.

Face to face, conferences used to be the routine in the past, for carrying out seminars and presentations. Now, web conferencing services have bridged distances. The world of communication underwent a lot of change with the beginning of internet and more so, with the incredible communication technology like video conferencing solutions and programs. Interactive telecommunication technologies which make it possible for two or more locations to connect and host collaborative video and audio meetings at the same time. Video conferencing uses audio and video to connect people who are geographically distant. In fact, this new technology can connect friends and family across the globe.

In addition to the connective technology, video conferencing can be used to send and receive files, instantly chat with other, show presentations, share desktops, and display information on the screens of various computers. In a video conference, the use of high quality technology allows for real time application sharing, text chat, file transfer, desktop sharing, and audio recording unlike anything else out there.

With internet video collaboration and a high speed internet connection, users can easily benefit from a user friendly net conferencing program. Large companies and organizations now have the option of assembling all their employees from across the world in a single virtual meeting. Long, tedious, and expensive business trips can now be a thing of the past, as internet video conferencing replaces these antiquated techniques.

Even though telephone and email can help you stay in touch and communicate over long distances, web conferencing provides a lot more. It enables you to talk, to share files, share your screens, chat, share demos, trainings, presentations, and what's more, it can be done right from your desktop. You do not need to buy any separate hardware for this.

Video collaboration has also proven to be useful and effective teaching and training tools. Students from all over the world can connect to online classrooms to study and learn their subjects. It's becoming the new technology for education. Many schools are doing away with the traditional classrooms and turning schools into satellite programs. It's eliminated the cost of operations in keeping a building open. Children are more focused in their learning without the distraction of other kids around them. And, children can actually work at a pace that best suits them to ensure that they are learning in a way that works for them.

Finally, video conferencing can connect families who are miles and miles apart. This eliminates the cost of buying tickets that are perhaps way out of our personal budgets. It allows families to communicate and connect anytime and actually see each other. All in all, communication has become much simpler with internet video meetings and collaborations.

Web Conferencing Central is a great all in one web conferencing service that allows you to host online meetings, webinars, video chats, and much more.

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Video Conferencing Made Easy With Proper Tools

Originally, web cameras were simple tools you could hook up to your computer and use with your instant messaging program. However, technology has enables our webcams to be a more effective tool in conjunction with video conferencing.

When choosing webcams the first thing to pay attention to compatibility with the computer's operating system, because many models are compatible with only Windows. Web cameras should include the following components: CCD, lens, optical filter, video capture card, video compression unit, the central processor, and built-in web-server, flash memory, network interface, serial ports, alarm inputs, and outputs. Some models of cameras can perform a rotating video surveillance. One of the most important things is deciding how you want your web camera to work with you video conferencing program.

When choosing online camera, pay close attention to how it connects to your computer. Also make sure it's compatible with you video conferencing program. It your web camera provides a microphone technology, it's important to make sure it has exceptional sound quality. There's nothing worse than hosting a video conference with poor sound. Built-in microphones are now in almost all web cameras but the quality in all of them are not equal. Sometimes you might need a dedicated microphone other than the one provided with your web camera. But, having most computer cameras come with audio features is convenient, especially those that do not need to connect additional devices. And, of course, saves you time. But, if you already have a good microphone, it is probably better to use it when hosting a video conference. Cameras with built-in microphone can also transmit audio. Probably one of the most impressive capabilities of some web cameras is their ability to transfer sound files.

Most webcams are equipped with a USB-connector, but, as we know, there are two versions of this interface, and they differ greatly in speed. If a web-camera version supports USB 1.1, then the video quality is not the best. This will affect the quality of the picture and might make your computer a little slow. You also want to ensure that the streaming quality of your video conferencing is optimal and a good webcam can ensure such results.

Expensive models of computer cameras have wireless interfaces. They are usually divided into two parts, a transmitter, and the receiver, which is also connected to the connector USB. It often is used for signal transmission technology Wi-Fi.

In addition to using your webcam for chatting and video collaboration, technology has enhanced many features. We can use the webcam for photographs, screen sharing, broadcasting information, video shoots, and more. There's even software that allows you to edit your photos from your online camera. But, using your computer camera in conjunction with your internet meetings can be perhaps the most rewarding in allowing you to streamline your business and cut costs.

So, when considering the purchase of a webcam to use in conjunction with your video collaboration tools, don't just look at the price, but look at the quality and what you expect your web camera to do.

Web Conferencing Central is a great all in one web conferencing service that allows you to host online meetings, webinars, video chats, and much more.

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Video Conferencing Elements You Need to Know

You will find that no matter what your needs are for video conferencing, there are going to be some essential elements that you are going to need to know. Because of this, you are going to want to take a few minutes to look over these following information to help you understand this process and to get the most out of your video conferencing solution.

To begin this process, you need to understand is video conferencing is a tool that is in place, to help you communication with other people in different locations. The group is then brought together through the video software and you are able to have a conference that combines people from all over the world, without the need for excessive travel.

It is because of this, that many major companies are looking at video conferencing as being the most cost effective solution for them. Since they can save money on travel and ensure that employees are able to spend more time focusing on work, rather than flying across the country, these tools are becoming essential. While you are going to find that there may still need to be some focus on getting people out for particular meetings, a majority of them can be handled at individual offices and people can get back to doing their daily routine.

Along with this, you are also going to find that last minute additions to meetings can be handled as well. When you find that someone needs to attend a meeting that wouldn't normally have time to hope on a plane needs to be added, you can turn to this video conferencing software to ensure that they are in attendance. This makes this process very cost effective and important for companies who can't afford to miss out on having information provided that will be essential for the overall success of the company.

From here, you need to understand that there are going to be a number of choices in place. There will be dedicated systems that are designed to handle the video conferencing solution and there will be the desktop system that is simply attached to you computer that uses the tools that are on your desktop.

Both of these options are obviously going to have their own set of benefits associated with them. What you will need to do is to take the time to research both of these options, then come up with an effective solution that is going to work best for you in the process.

Remember, video conferencing can be an essential tool for your business. You are going to need to determine how this business will be most effective for you. Start this process by looking at the options that you have then proceed to review all the benefits that come with each one. Then proceed to invest in any cost effective solution you find that will continue helping you to grow and expand your business.

To get video conference equipments and LCD projector, visit ESCO Audio Visual now.

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Pros of Video Conferencing

Most people have heard the term video conferencing, but not everyone understands the overall impact that it can have. This is a powerful tool that is being used more in business and educational sectors and it is having a positive impact in each of the forms that it is used.

What you are going to need to understand is that in terms of business, this tool can connect everyone in the world through a video system. That means you can have meetings with people in Japan, while your staff in South Africa present information that will be relevant to the overall meeting. This opens doors of effective communication and can certainly ensure that you reach more people than you ever thought possible.

One of the absolute perks about this process is the fact that people do have a chance to hear what is going on and they are able to visually see the presentation. Unlike the older forms of phone interviews, you are going to find that modern video conferencing tends to have a stronger impact and a people get the full value of the meetings that you are presenting as well.

Another benefit for video conferencing is the fact that you can make a single presentation at one time and everyone in your company can be on the same page. When you are attempting to roll out a new product or make changes to your services, this can be a quick and effective approach that will certainly deliver results as well.

Perhaps more importantly for many companies will be the fact that is does cut down on travel expenses. Since employees will no longer have to travel for certain meetings and presentations, you are going to find that your budget isn't hit as hard. Along with that, the employee remains close to their home and they are going to be more effective in their own office, then a guest office in another part of the world.

Of course, you are also going to find that this is a green form of technology as well. Many companies are looking to impact the environment less and with video conferencing, you are going to find that the reduced travel helps to prompt less waste and damage to the environment. That reduction in the carbon footprint could have some dramatic results that your potential clients will appreciate seeing as well.

If you are interested in this technology, the first thing you will want to do is to sit down and go over the available information that is out there. For many companies, there will be a need to have quality information available that will allow them to compare what they are currently doing and to research how this simple adjustment in their conferences can have an impact on their business structure. In some cases, they might even find that the video conferencing solutions they find prove to be exactly what they have been looking for to grow and expand economically.

To get video conference equipments and LCD projector, visit ESCO Audio Visual now.

Feel free to publish this article on your website, or send it to your friends, as long as you keep the resource box and the content of the article intact.

The content is our own opinion and does not necessarily reflect the views of ESCO Audio Visual.

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What Else Should Free Video Chat Services Do?

In the 17 years since the internet "started", by public common standards (it's actually been around since the '70s), communications has had a major makeover. It didn't all happen at once, either. First, people embraced email, a free, distance-defiant and speedy way to communicate with images and text to anyone in the world who also had an email address. This is the original internet communication form, and it was around long before you knew what it was, more than likely, since it was privately used by the government.

Of course from there, bulletin boards (now called forums) rose to popularity, followed by chat rooms, instant messengers and then the now highly-praised free video chat room systems. But, these systems aren't perfect, and there are things they don't do yet, or things they do but really shouldn't.

Online webcam chat is a young technology. This means that it hasn't really had a chance to completely figure itself out. This is a common problem young technologies have, when first introduced to public use. One of the problems though, is that as it stands, some people are afraid video chatting. This is a natural human response, especially to something like recording technology. People may be reluctant to have their homes or their own personal image recorded for the world to see. This is probably one of the aspects of the technology that stands to gain the most from continued development and innovation. There may be several ways that people can make use of this technology and make avail of clever features that ensure more privacy than the system can currently provide.

Following along these lines, another thing that webcam chat systems don't quite do yet is to use it to track facial expressions, movements and the like to control an avatar. This technology, called motion capture technology, is heavily used in animating CGI effects. It's also become part of some of the more gimmicky gaming concepts of late. Perhaps this could be another breakthrough in webcam chat that could come to fruition in a few years.

Touching on privacy in another light, some sites are already covering one of the other base problems. Especially in the case of random webcam chat sites, there's always been a problem of people behaving in rather unpleasantly naughty ways. This has made use of this video chat technology downright unsafe for underage users or people who are sensitive to seeing certain parts of the anatomy.

As a result, free cam chat site designers are beginning to enforce a required account and profile to use the sites. While the profile information is confidential, whistle-blowing buttons on the chat interfaces could allow people to report to administration any misbehavior that violates the code of conduct for a site. With this in place, perhaps random chat services for younger or more impressionable users could become more widely-spread eventually.

To gain more knowledge about free video chat technologies, you should check out FaceFlow's free cam chat platform.

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Solutions For Businesses Needing More Bandwidth For Web Conferencing

During these days of economic slowdown and uncertainties, every step taken should be watched carefully as you never know what is in store for you. Many companies have to force shutdown, reduce their expenditure by cutting down on staff and salaries which has actually affected the quality of work and the annual returns. In such times, videoconferencing software has come as a savior which has helped many big and small business enterprises to re-establish themselves. The unimaginable power which it has got needs to be explored and fully utilized as it can prove to be the reason behind your success.

Set the ball rolling

Every business carries with itself some amount of risk, so as a businessman you need to have the right commodities in your hands to cover it up. The idea is to give the best and get the best. When the ball is in your court you have got the power to manoeuvre it, as you need to give your best shot to tell the world of your arrival. Your product needs be launched in a proper way to get the maximum clientele without spending much. The videoconferencing tools give you the freedom to launch your product throughout the world in high definition picture quality. It will show you in the limelight without spending a penny on advertisement. Isn, t that great?So don't wait for you competitor to win and set the ball rolling as whole world is your court.

Give your players the best

As a team leader you have to have the best of staff with a clear vision of winning any game in the business world. A lot of money has been spent on recruitment and training as you have to travel across the country to get the best players in the industry and to train them according to your requirements. The videoconferencing software has made it so easy that you don't have to move out of your office to recruit people in your team and you can train them from your room itself. And believe me the results will be outstanding.

Give yourself a break

When is the last time you actually went on a break with a free mind?Running a business is a 24/7 affair. Even when you are sleeping your mind is working. You might as well be having sleepless nights in making a success of your business and travelling around the world to spread your business. In real sense you don't have time for yourself. But now you can spare sometime to actually stand and stare the beauty of the world. With videoconferencing software you can attend conferences right from your office desktop and meet your customers demands without wasting your time and energy. So no more complaints from your wife.

What about a Bentley

Once you are a successful businessman sky is the limit for you. If you lay your cards carefully, there's a lot of money in any business. You spend a lot of money in travelling around the world to make new customers and partners. High airfares, highly priced hotel accommodation, etc can deter the growth of your business as you have to waste your hard earned money away. So its better to go the videoconferencing way and save your money for better things in life. what about gifting yourself a Bentley?wow!

The world is changing for a better tomorrow, see yourself as the pioneers of this changing world with the best available technologies. Its the best investment in the market available today for a businessman and it can prove to be your best pal in the long run. Go for it.

Rupinder is working as Content Writer, and has written many articles on different subjects, specially on Video Conferencing Software. There are many service providers in the market today, whose solutions are excellent, but don't suit the budget of all business types. Some video conferencing solutions are built keeping in mind the budget of small to medium and large business organizations. Better to approach these providers.

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Evolution Of Modern Video Conferencing

Internet video conferencing allows remotely located people to communicate with each other conveniently, effectively and inexpensively. Though highly developed today, this solution faced several hurdles before it reached a stage when it could be deployed in the education, legal, media, medical and corporate sector. The first visual communication system was used in 1940s in German Reich Post Office Network, where two cameras recorded videos and coax cables transferred data.

In the early 70s, AT&T was the first company to develop visual global conferencing services for the masses. However, its efforts were marred by inefficient video compression technologies resulting in blurred videos. An ordinary telephony network was used to transmit slow-scan videos, but the prevalent 6Mbps bit rate and 1Mhz bandwidth rendered it useless for practical implementation. As technology developed in 1980s, compression techniques also improved and the size of the videos reduced considerably. By mid-1990s, video event conferencing was more feasible, though poor picture quality was still a deterrent.

By that time, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) was used to host visual managed conferencing calls. ISDN is a protocol suite that digitises voice, video and data, so that it can be transferred over a telephone line. Though it had low initial and monthly costs and supported high speed video calls, it had many demerits that did not allow visual communication across remote locations to be feasible. This protocol was unreliable, had high cost of usage, and required expensive ISDN switching equipment for enterprise-grade implementation. Further, individual video event conferencing device had to be ISDN-enabled, leading to increasing costs of organising a video call.

Fortunately, the internet also developed rapidly during this time, and video calls could be made over the Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN), allowing companies to avail global conferencing services. These IP-enabled video systems tapped into the bandwidth of the company's internet connection to send data. This way, organisations could conduct videos without the disadvantages brought by ISDN protocol. However, ISDN is still used by many organisations, even though most companies in India prefer IP-enabled video conferencing solutions, since high speed internet connections deliver better video quality.

In due course, organisations that have adopted IP networks as the preferred protocol can carry out India video conferencing on the same Internet connection. As higher bandwidth will be required to deliver best performance, high speed internet connections will be best suited for visual communication over large distances. Internet video conferencing can now deliver high quality video without lag, loss of data and network errors. Even high definition (HD) videos can be broadcasted over the Internet without any latency, allowing interactive communication between an indefinite number of participants (multipoint video India conference call).

Presently, video managed conferencing solutions are available on two systems - dedicated systems and desktop systems. Dedicated system comprises a console that is equipped with a HD level remote controlled video camera, control computer and hardware-based coder-decoder (codec). On the other hand, desktop systems used for internet-based visual communication are hardware boards and other such add-ons, which enable ordinary computers to send data via H.323 standards.

Mark Voucher is an experienced writer having more than 10 years of experience in writing articles on various topics such as Internet video conferencing, global conferencing services and event conferencing etc.

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High Acceptance Rate For Internet Video Conferencing In India

Conferencing solutions have paved the way for integrating video, voice and data over an easy-to-use interface. India is an emerging market for video web conferencing, and is expected to show tremendous growth in the coming years. Almost 70 per cent of Indian professionals expect it to grow exponentially and become more pervasive than ever by 2011 itself, according to a research. Presently, face to face meetings (approximately 82 per cent professionals) are the most popular mode of business communication. It is followed by emails (approximately 60 per cent professionals) and Internet video conferencing (approximately 57 per cent professionals).

The prospects of web video conference are much greater in Asia, especially India, than in Europe according to the research. This is so because firms here believe face to face communication is most effective in coming to a decision than emails or telephone conversations. In India, 98 per cent respondents believed that maintaining visual contact with business associates is essential while conducting important business deals. Therefore, Indian professionals can liaise with each other visually without the hassles and expenses associated with travelling, thus resulting in the exponential growth of video-based net conferencing.

The Indian market is at a nascent stage for web video conference services and vendors need to know the exact demands of the market. This research provides significant insight into the business requirements of Indian corporate firms. Therefore, companies can deliver net conferencing solutions with the requisite features to capture this booming market early.

Small and medium businesses (SMBs) as well as large enterprises based in telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, financial services and government sectors are expected to lead this growth. Apart from these, media and entertainment companies will also be crucial in the success of Internet video conferencing in India.

Users in India predominantly rely on desktop computers and laptops running on broadband Internet connection or Wi-Fi for business communication. However, a paradigm shift is expected in mode of conferencing due to the advent of 3G technology in India. Professionals have the option of participating in a web video conference while commuting by using their tablet computers or Smartphones that run on high speed 3G connections.

Rate of acceptance is crucial in the success of video web conferencing in India, as users would have to be comfortable while using such solutions. Therefore, vendors focus on developing conferencing products that are easy to use and possess the features needed for effective and seamless communication. Companies simplify net conferencing on handheld devices by creating dedicated apps for popular operating systems like iOS, Android and BB OS 6. This way, they can enjoy greater acceptance among new professionals, who may find using technical solutions relatively difficult in the beginning.

Quality of Service (QoS) is also important for increasing the rate of acceptance in India. Service providers continually work towards delivering HD sound and video quality during the conferencing session. High resolution and synchronised audio and video will help in improving the QoS, thus augmenting the rate of adoption among Indian firms. Apart from that, companies use the highest security protocols to safeguard the event from being accessed or recorded illegally. Thus, they maintain confidentiality of the meeting and assure the users of the security of the conference.

Mark Voucher is an experienced writer having more than 10 years of experience in writing articles on various topics such as Internet video conferencing, net conferencing and video web conferencing etc.

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Video Chat Technology - Quickly Gaining Traction

Some may not be fully aware of what webcam chat actually is. People eventually got bored with email, forums, chat rooms and instant messengers, so the next logical step was to integrate telephone and video technologies into the internet communications medium as a whole.

Unsurprisingly, video chat came about rather quickly once the designers of the technology set their minds to develop it. The first programs that gained notoriety back then may not be as notorious nowadays. There's a reason for this, mainly due to bandwidth restrictions at the time limiting people to dial-up connections, which are too narrow for quality video or audio sampling to stream over successfully.

As time went on and bandwidth got better, webcam chat systems got better (and genuinely useful) along with it. First, we got new features on our IM systems which allowed video and voice calling with other users. This was alright, but it still wasn't winning any awards. Next, we got programs designed with the video and voice chat as the central feature. These are still around and popular.

Recently, the most infamous forms of web chat communication involving webcams actually are the browser-powered modern sites. These are the newest implementation of webcam technology. One may wonder why it took so long for this technology to make the leap to web applications. Well, when you think about it, web pages never worked that well for interactivity until Flash and more recently HTML 5 came along. With these new Web technologies, higher level programming is now available to develop high-end applications.

However, it's time to take free webcam chat more seriously, because there are new and upcoming technologies which can stand to benefit from this innovation in the long run. With video chat like this, the stay-at-home work environment will become a much more viable work environment than in the past.

It is documented that the most common problem behind work anxiety is in fact because of the constant daily commute and the grind of a schedule one has to base their life around. People who can't handle traveling or dealing with people in person will stand to benefit from the entire parallel communications medium as a whole.

This makes working a more viable and easy to do thing for people in the future allowing careers and a sense of purpose to be available for more people. This also will have less of a grind on people having to base their choice of residential locations around a place they must be daily as well.

As this technology continues to improve and be experimented with, the world stands to be a more profitable and less depressing place in the foreseeable future. So while free webcam chat was once a source of mainly humor and a toy, modern and future implementations will show this to be a serious achievement in communications. We are not done seeing new achievements and progress in the video communication field.

If you are interested in learning more about video chat, check out FaceFlow's webcam chat technology.

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Video Conferencing Allows Extended Communication

In recent years, video conferencing has proven to be an effective way for people to approach communication in a new manner. This technology allows people from all around the world to meet and to begin have an effective meeting that allows visuals to be used as part of the presentation. For many people, this approach does allow them to get a better understanding of what is actually going on in a meeting ensuring the long distance conferences are more effective.

What you are going to find is that this approach to business does allow you to meet with anyone in the world and hold a true professional conference. During this time, you can show them slides, present on a whiteboard and have a chance to make a significant impact on them. Over the years, this has proven to be more effective than traditional conferencing over the telephone as well as being a cost effective solution as well.

The reason is that you can significantly reduce the amount of travel that your company pays for. Since most people have a small presentation they will need to deliver, you are going to find that video conferencing will allow them to present from their home base, rather than requiring airfare, rental cars and hotel rooms for a presentation that lasts five minutes.

For this process, you do need to understand that when it comes to the equipment, you will get what you pay for. That means that if you are dealing with inexpensive equipment there is a chance that it will end up breaking down as it proves to be ineffective. Instead, you are going to need to ensure that you take your time to explore the various options you will have for open communication and allow yourself the chance to provide your company with a setup that will truly help to enhance the way that they operate through video conferencing.

Keep in mind that there are additional features that you can find through the video conferencing solutions. Some offer user chat where you can send private and public messages through a chat feature that doesn't end up disturbing the presenter. In addition to that, you can be presented with visual files that are shown on a computer system as well. The choices will be up to you and you will just need to spend a little time learning and understanding them for the best overall results.

Remember, video conferencing is going to be the way that future business is handled. To ensure that you do have a successful setup, you will want to be sure that you take the time to explore all the options you have and come up with a system that will work for your company as it saves you a considerable amount of money at the same time. That way, you can guarantee that it is a part of the success that your company ends up having in this process.

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Video Conferencing Versus Audio Conferencing: Which One Is Right for You?

Conference calling in a business atmosphere is no new thing, but the technology to conduct such calls is definitely always changing. Both video conferencing and audio conferencing are great tools for any business, but one may be more suited for your particular business than the other. Both have their merits, but there are many factors that should be weighed before making a final decision as to which one is right for you.

The decision should be based on not only your preferences but should also factor in the other individuals that will be using the conference calling service and those individuals you will be holding conferences with. There are five questions in particular that you should address before deciding on whether you should conduct conferences through video or conduct them through audio.

1. What is the goal you are trying to achieve for the team?

The first question has to do with the goal that you want to reach by conducting conference calls in the first place. If you and your team are just looking for a means by which to all communicate simultaneously, then audio conferencing may be suitable. On the other hand, if your goal has to do with gauging someone's response to a particular matter -- whether it is a customer, an associate, or someone else -- then you may find that video conferencing is more useful.

2. Will members be comfortable being on video?

Another important question to address when choosing a conferencing option is whether those individuals you will be conferencing with will even be comfortable using a video conferencing service. Some individuals find themselves very uncomfortable being on video, and you would not want this to discourage somebody from attending an important conference.

3. What if some are on video and some are not?

Another important thing to address is other individual's capabilities as far as conferencing goes. Some individuals may not have the option of participating in video conferencing, and they may feel left out of the loop if this is the way that you plan to communicate. If some team members do not already use video conferencing, you could also point them in the right direction for downloading a free program so they may begin using this useful tool.

4. What is the cost of each version of conferencing?

Cost should always be an issue as well, especially when it comes to business expenses. The fact is there are free versions of each type of conferencing programs. But you must determine if the free versions are sophisticated enough for your business and if not, how much it would cost for a better program?

5. How is the video quality for video conferencing programs?

Finally, you need to determine if the video quality for the program you choose will be up to your standards. If you plan to conduct or view presentations using your video conferencing program, you want to be sure the quality is good enough to get the most out of your meeting and the materials presented.

Both video and audio conferencing can work for almost any business, but one may work better than the other for you. It really all depends on what kind of business you will be conducting and who you will be conducting it with.

Author Andy Court has been participating in communications forums for about 5 years. He consulted to the free conference call system initiated by Rondee.

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How to Choose a Simultaneous Interpretation System?

The speaker continuously speaks, in a spoken language and the interpreter, sitting in a sound proof booth speaks into a microphone, clearly seeing and hearing the source language speaker via earphones, since there is continuity and flow, it is more effective style of conferencing. In simultaneous interpretation, there is little or no gap between what source language speaker is saying and it is simultaneously interpreted into target language.

For choosing the right type of simultaneous interpretation system, the following factors will play a key role:-

Target audiences- Before buying any equipment, it should be well planned and analyzed for target audiences. The equipment should cater for maximum number of audiences. The figure can vary from 500 to 5,000. It will be better to cater the equipment for 5,000 audiences, as more audiences will require more output. We can always decrease the volume.

Location and type of venues- The locations and type of venues will have direct bearing on the selection of equipment. The size of the halls at the venues and acoustics of the halls are to be kept in mind. The performance of the equipment and success of the conference will largely depend upon the type of the venue.

Quality of equipment- Most suitable and latest equipment meeting all our requirements are to be selected. Before selecting the type of equipment, the present and future technology is to be kept in mind. What may be latest equipment today may become obsolete after 5 years. The equipment purchased should have provision / compatibility to incorporate latest technology after couple of years.

Cost factor- After ensuring that all the requirements are met with, cost of equipment will play a pivotal role. It should be ensured that standards should not be compromised with cost factor.

Market survey- Before purchase of any system, a thorough market survey / research is to be made with regard to various systems available, cost factor, quality of the products and service providers' capability for providing backup service. It will be much better to seek the opinion of other users of the systems.

Demonstration before purchase of system- Before selection of system, it will be advisable to get arranged for demonstration for various systems, so that you get the right feel of the system or other alternate is to visit the other locations where the systems are installed and have a feel of it.

Requirements should be clearly spelt out, so that right system is provided. When you have more than three Languages involved and the venue is huge the best equipment would be Digital systems with IR and FM Receivers up to 10,000 delegates. While selecting the vendor you need to make sure that they have a capability to provide you with the best simultaneous interpreter, equipments and technicians to make sure every single aspect of the event are going smooth. You can check with your interpreter about their experience with the service provider and their capability to meet your requirement.

Article written by Mr. Ram Kesarwani, Director of Translation India - offers simultaneous translation equipment [http://www.simultaneoustranslationequipment.net] and tour guide system for industrial visits from India.

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The Benefits of Video Conferencing

Chances are you have heard of video conferencing. What you might not understand is that this can have a significant impact on your overall business. This tool can help to take your business to the next level and help to expand on the overall reach that you will have as well.

For business, this form of video conferencing is going to allow you to connect to people across the globe with the use of a video stream. That means that no matter where in the world your clients or staff are, they can present an effective presentation, without too much effort at all. With this expansion of communication, you will notice an increase in productivity as there is an overall decrease in travel expenses.

When you use video conferencing, you are going to find that you provide the chance to other to both hear and see what is going on in a meeting. While there was a time when ineffective phone meetings could be done, you are going to find that the video approach is going to let you connect more with people and leave a lasting impression at the same time.

In addition to this, most people will find that having the chance to use video conferencing will allow everyone to ensure that they understand what is going on. When you consider that in phone conferences you cannot provide visual assistance, video conferencing will allow you to watch live streaming video that will give you the chance to follow along and review any physical presentation materials that will allow you to get a better understanding.

Of course, one of the main benefits that companies are focusing on is the fact that this approach does allow you to reduce the expenses that come with travel. Since meetings can effectively be held in the home area of most employees, there will be a reduction in the need for overall travel. These savings in turn help to offset the initial cost that can be associated with the equipment. This can prove to be a true benefit for all those involved.

Keep in mind that there are a variety of approaches that can be used for this process. What you will want to do is take the time to determine which options are the most cost effective and then proceed to take full advantage of these options. Over time, you are going to find that they truly do end up saving you quite a bit of money and they can help to advance your company and continue to push you towards becoming one of the leaders that are listed in your industry.

More importantly, in these tough economic times, more businesses should do what they can to help reduce some of their regular expenses by taking advantage of some of the various choices that are out there for building up your business. This happens to be one of the top options that you are going to have for doing just that.

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Application Of Healthcare Video Conferencing For Rural Areas

As we know, the most challenging task now-a-days is facing healthcare problems, and this is due to a serious shortage of doctors and nurses in rural areas. When there is a situation having only one doctor for 30,000 people, Video Conferencing can best solve this problem. And as many youngsters prefer to migrate abroad because of better opportunities and facilities provided there, It's reflecting in an overall shortage of doctors in India which is becoming a problem in rural areas. Shortage of doctors in villages is not the only issue, but sometimes the doctors who are posted in villages fail to perform up to the standards due to problems like absence among the staff, lack of required resources for treatment (beds, medicine etc.), cases of one doctor for every medical ailment and so on.

Helping over in Research & Training, Video Conferencing can help medical experts and scientists to collaborate on their research without leaving their laboratories. The results of the research can be made available by demonstrating their techniques and methods of medication to the rural people by using Video Conferencing. This technology provides medical education for rural people, that helps in preventing many dreadful diseases.

Video Conferencing enables the patient to see a specialist during a remote consultation plus the related patient records such as x-rays, ECG scan recording, and browser based applications like EMR/ E_HR/PACS & lab records can be shared in real time. This is especially important for patients living in rural areas, or who are too ill to travel great distances to visit a specialist or clinic. The specialist can easily control the distant patient side PAN Tilt Zoom camera, for accurate examination. Not limiting to one single doctor, multiple doctors can consult the patients from multiple locations.

For rural areas, web conferencing can be used to monitor the patients from any remote location without the need of any appointments. For locations with limited access to specialized doctors, campuses can connect to share resources in order to offer healthcare programs to all patients across distant locations and even remote villages. Physicians from large teaching hospitals or medical centers can connect with their remote patients, using video conferencing equipment. Audio, video, and data are shared between a patient and physician for the purpose of rendering a diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan.

Healthcare Video Conferencing Solutions provide improved communications and collaboration for better decision-making, efficiency, cost-savings and productivity. These telemedicine solution offers the public Internet and existing networks at medical facilities to enable secure, remote doctor-patient and doctor-doctor interactions that are as close as possible to face-to-face meetings. Healthcare providers can connect Video conferencing anywhere for an examination, operation, or consultation needs to take place, from within medical facilities and at patient homes, clinics, other hospitals or physician home offices.

The best Video Conferencing Software that is more appealing, affordable and easy to use for all types of businesses is more effective for Indian market. Deeksha works on SEO for PeopleLink Corporate Solutions Pvt.Ltd., providers for top-quality Video Conferencing Solutions and services.

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Is Telephone Conferencing Right For Personal And Professional Use?

Telephone conferencing is a cost-effective medium for communication that allows people to connect and converse in group. Through telephone conference call companies people are now getting necessary support to communicate with their family, friends and business associates. The business meetings and client conversations are also made possible throughout the world with the help of telephone conferencing service.

Positive And Negative Aspects of Teleconferencing Service

People can hardly ignore the effect of telephone conference call companies on their personal and professional life. There are a large number of conferencing call companies who are adapting to advanced communication technologies and offering customers a better alternative to face-to-face business meetings over ordinary phone line or VoIP network connection. Though telephone conferencing is widely used in personal and professional sphere but you need to be well aware of its positive and negative aspects. Let's find out them in brief.

The Positive Features Of Teleconferencing

• Telephone conferencing makes a cheaper communication method for business organizations through which they can save significant amount of money on business travels and conference meetings. They don't have to incur more cost for long distance calls and can simultaneously escape from the difficult task of organizing a business meeting in a physical location.

• Connectivity as well as productivity of business organizations increases as they start to use telephone conference call service regularly. With phone conferencing business professionals will be comfortable attending the business meetings from the office rather than traveling back and forth to the location which takes lots of their time and energy.

• Since most of the telephone conferencing packages are available with call recording facility, users can ask for the digital copies of the missed conference calls anytime so that they can have access to them at the earliest. The recorded teleconference calls can again be played in the training session of employees.

• Telephone conferencing gives users scope for increased participation that is somehow missing in physical meetings. People hardly hesitate to interact over phone no matter how shy or self-conscious they are. In this way, they deeply get involved in the business matters and bring more productivity to the organization.

The Negative Aspects Of Teleconferencing

1. The set up process for telephone conferencing is a bit clumsy as you will have to ensure call coordination among people connecting to it from different time zone or country.

2. Nothing can replace physical meetings where verbal communication, eye contact and body language can make greater impacts. By choosing for telephone conference systems, business owners might not be able to impress their clients to the best always.

3. Due to lack of visual tools, the phone conferencing does not turn out to be as interactive as video conferencing. Moreover, the host in audio call will have to send lots of information to the attendees via mail for follow up which is at times inconvenient and time consuming.

4. The audio video conference might get interrupted frequently due to background noise. You can't overcome these interruptions unless and until the conferencing call companies give you the option to mute the participants.

Hope Neel is a telephone conferencing specialist giving people ideas on better call options available in the market. He compares and analyses the features of telephone conference call to prove its worth in the personal and professional sphere.

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Importance of a Web Video Conference

Advancements in science and technology in the last century have eliminated the need of meeting people in person to conduct official seminars or meetings. Owing to web video conference, it is now possible for professionals to conduct real time meetings in spite of the geographical differences between them. This technology offers potent benefits as an effective and cost effective mode of conducting business communication. There is an urgent need of faster and seamless communication in a country like Hong Kong, which is home to various small, medium and large sized firms.

Online conferencing offers various benefits over conventional conferencing, such as flexibility and scalability. Though such conferences do not serve the purpose when professionals working in the same city meet, these prove beneficial for holding long distance meetings. The selection of appropriate web conferencing software depends upon the scale of the communication infrastructure required by a particular company. The software enables companies to streamline their communication process and lower the associated costs.

Web video conference does not have high set up or operating costs and can be deployed in a firm without any hassles. On the contrary, the solutions used in conferencing are quite easy to install and can even be accessed from a browser window, without any additional downloads. Furthermore, technological advancements have enhanced picture and sound clarity delivered by the conferencing solutions. Therefore, users based in Hong Kong can, now, expect fault free service with zero fluctuation. It is also possible to conduct webinars, host webasts, carry out online presentations and share files over the Internet by including powerful web conferencing software in their communication set-up.

Along with big corporate brands, Hong Kong is home to many medium and small scale enterprises. Until a few years ago, video conferencing used to be an expensive affair, which was only accessible to large firms. However, falling broadband prices and advancements in technology have cut down the costs related to the service significantly. So, low operational costs have made it possible for them to use the services in order to facilitate a smooth and faster business communication. Web video conference is preferred by Hong Kong based firms of all sizes as these pave the way to conduct visual meetings without the hassles involved.

In Hong Kong, arranging an in-person meeting or seminar requires the participants to travel long distances. However, opting for online conferences removes the hassles and costs involved in travelling. An additional advantage offered by web video conference is that lateness and absenteeism of the participants is also substantially reduced. People find it convenient and quicker to go online for a meeting instead of travelling long distances. Effective web conferencing software can also record the whole conversation, which can be later on reviewed gain relevant insight and feedback.

Events like trainings, product launches and seminars can prove to be expensive if held conventionally. Beside the costs, a lot of time and energy on the part of employees, which can be utilised in other productive tasks, is also used in arranging these events. Online conferencing facilitates greater participation by the participants and, consequently, decision-making process is streamlined, thus providing business owners with valuable competitive advantage.

Owing to the comprehensive nature of the service and list of benefits offered, this can be a perfect solution for a seamless business communication. An effective webcasting solution can successfully conduct everything from company announcements to product launches and from brainstorming sessions to seminars online.

Thosino Weven is an experienced writer having more than 10 years of experience in writing articles on various topics such as web conferencing, webcasting & online conferencing etc.

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What Are The Benefits Of Operator Assisted Conferencing?

Communication is the key to any successful business organization and the technologies have changes the face of communication for the good. For the business houses, web and video conferencing services have ushered in shaping the face of communication, enabling the organizations to get in touch with prospective clients, business partners or the team located at distant locations. However, in video conferencing, it is imperative that the entire conference session is perfectly organized and carried out smoothly without any hazard. Thus, the best solution to this is to have a facilitator who shall guide the entire conference session and perform a host of functions to assist the conferees in the best ways. This system of a facilitator assisting a conference call is called operator assisted conferencing.

Today, a number of businesses are using that having operator assisted teleconferencing as they find the process to be simpler and easier way to conduct conference calls. With a facilitator ready to lend assistance in the call and ensuring that the session goes on successfully, operator assisted conferencing service is the choicest option for the business houses.

The first and the foremost advantage of operator assisted conferencing is the fact that the businesses can have the entire session of conference move according to a specific agenda and most importantly, in an organized and professional manner. The facilitator plays distinct role by greeting all the participants and joining them into the conference. The operator, in the process, makes sure that all the participants are present and ensures that no one joins in late.

In operator assisted conferencing the facilitator manages the entire flow of the conference. He moderates the question and answers sessions, conduct polling when required, screen certain number of participants from the conference session, on request from the host for a period of time, record the entire session and later hand over the recording to the host.

In an operator assisted conference call, the facilitator can also play the role of a translator and when a participant speaks in a different language, the moderators can instantly translate that to the language understood by the other conferees. Thus, the facilitator helps in a smooth communication process.

The facilitator in operator assisted conferencing handles the introduction rounds of the conferees and makes sure that each conferee has a fair knowledge about the other participants. This certainly gives a professional touch feel and keeps things on right track and as per the agenda. For instance, it is very common thing in a teleconferencing call, that a speaker might go beyond his stipulated time and voice his opinion on a certain topic. This can stretch the meeting and an operator can help by reminding the speakers about their allotted time.

Another major reason for operator assisted teleconferencing being one of the most preferred options is the availability of the moderator who could provide real time assistance if any technical problems occur in midst of the session or any conferee gets disconnected. If there are any issues with the audio quality it can be immediately dealt by the facilitator.

When a conference requires a large number of participants and there is no one to assist, teleconferencing can be a bit difficult to handle. There are many companies that offer comprehensive conferencing services and it is important to avail the operator assisted conferencing from one such company that offers you the best value for money and meet your requirements in the best ways.

Hope Neel is a web and desktop video conferencing advisor. He aims to guide businesses by giving them useful insights on operator assisted conferencing and provide tips to hire a reliable operator assisted conferencing Call provider.

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Video Conferencing in the World of Business

Most people in the business world have heard of video conferencing. With this process, you are going to be able to meet with people all over the world and be able to effectively handle essential meetings without a need for a considerable amount of travel.

This of course, means that you are going to have the chance to sit down with people who will have an impact on business decisions, without the need to take them away from doing their normal job as well. What you will find is that your presentation can be made in just a few minutes and then you can get back to normal operations, without any effort at all. Along with that, the equipment can handle day long meetings as well, safely and effectively.

What is typically found is that this ability to meet with people face to face has a considerable bearing on the information process. Since you will be able to see facial expressions, you can note when someone is confused on a particular aspect an then you can proceed to bring them up to speed and give them the extra help that they need. Because of this, video conferencing can prove to be an essential tool for your company.

Another thing that companies will often appreciate is the fact that they are able to present information with virtual whiteboards as well. Many of the styles of virtual conferencing will include this as well as silent chat options as well. This will allow individuals to discuss questions they may have about the presentation, without being concerned with the interrupting the speaker at the time. Along with that, the added visual options can enhance the overall value of your meeting as well.

What you need to understand is that video conferencing is going to be a tool that will prove to be essential for your business. It will give you superior results in this process, while cutting down your costs and helping your company become more environmentally sound in the process as well.

With this in mind, you do need to take into consideration that there will be several different options for you. It will be important that you consider either a dedicated setup or one that is handled through the personal computer as options for you. Each of these choices does have their own unique set of benefits and you will want to weigh those benefits against the needs that your company has.

You are going to find that no matter what the approach you take is, video conferencing is almost always going to be sensible solution for you. With continued advancements in technology and cost saving benefits, your company will find that this process is going to be a sensible solution that you are going to have for handling all your business needs. Of course, as with any process, you do need to sit down and go over all the facts involved to fully understand how each solution is going to work out for you.

To get video conference equipments and LCD projector, visit ESCO Audio Visual now.

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Video Conferencing - The Pros and Cons

The possibility of video conferencing has been around since the 1930's and ever since the advent of television video communications between sites has always been possible. However, recent developments in technology have meant that since the turn of the millennium the use of face-to-face video calls has become more commonplace.

Internet protocol and video compression rates, high definition, increased sound qualities have all lead to interpersonal communications becoming the norm, whether within separated households, schools, hospitals or the commercial world.

What are the pros and cons that this increased communication has brought and is it of benefit on a business or personal level?

Pros of the video conferencing system

* Increase in inter-personal communications, it makes doing business much easier and opens up increased markets worldwide.
* Cultural benefits, where certain cultures value face to face business and are more trusting of people they are able to talk with directly.
* Social benefits, especially with families who live apart for whatever reason.
* Educational benefits, its use as a virtual school and learning centre has opened up the area of education and led to marvelous developments in the field of medicine.
* Technological developments have made high definition, video conferencing more accessible to people and it's cheaper with a greater quality and functionality.
* Means that staff are always available and accessible. This can be of great use if you are a mobile or home worker.

Cons for video conferencing

* It can act as a distraction within the workplace and become overly relied upon.
* Disadvantage to people who are afraid of technological advancements or new systems.
* Seen as a toy with little value in the work place.
* Means that staff are always available and accessible. This can be a disadvantage if you have a day off or need some peace and quiet to get work done.
* Requires the development of new presentational or performance skills, which some people may find intimidating.
* Cost of installing new technology and training staff.

Whichever way you look at video conferencing there are a number of pros and cons but at the end of the day, it doesn't have to cost a fortune. Carefully used and responsibly managed it can be a boon both professionally and socially, as well as providing increased opportunities for people to communicate with each other. However much the technology brings people closer together it will still never replace a real life, face to face meeting with someone.

Alex, a qualified engineer, likes to keep up to date with the latest HDVC equipment and video conferencing software.

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What Is ISDN In Relation To Video Conferencing?

Video conferencing is an increasing popular method of holding large group conference and point to point conference meetings. Whether linking meeting members within the same company location or conducting a video conference between continents, the enhancement of live video has become a useful tool in business. A video conference uses video and audio telecommunication technology to link people in different locations together simultaneously in a live format. Video conferencing is also sometimes know as a "visual collaboration" in telecommunication terminology.

Meetings held with video conferencing are transmitted with audio and visual technology from one point to another in real time. Video conferencing technologies can also be used to transmit live information such as visual displays and video segments as if in a live meeting. A video conference meeting can be held between two groups or used for much larger lecture situations. Unlike the concept of a videophone call between two callers or speaking to someone using a "Skype" Internet application, a video conference is usually held between more than two individuals at one time. A meeting or an event video conference can even be from several locations as in a multi-point broadcast.

The technology behind videoconferencing was available as early as the 1970's. The use of "videotelephony" was first displayed by the Bell System (now At&T) and was known as their "Picturephone." Demonstrations of this new form of telephone communication to the public was widespread at the time. It was imagined that every home would someday have a video screen connected to their household telephone. However, the cost of this pioneering video conferencing method was quite expensive even for institutional use. Most businesses could not afford to own and run videoconferencing equipment for most meetings or conferences however important.

Video conferencing as a tool in the business world did not become a frequent occurrence until the invention of ISDN technologies. An ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is a telecommunication method for a combined digital transmission of voice, video, data and other network services over traditional telecommunication phone lines. Prior to the regular use of ISDN, the telephone transmitted voice but not video data. ISDN combined the audio technology of the traditional telephone with video technology. It also provided a way to send video conference signals with lowered costs.

This is accomplished because an ISDN can combine speech and data on the same lines of telecommunication. (Such telecommunication technology was simply not available in prior decades.) Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN) are often defined as a BRI or a Basic Rate Interface, a PRI or Primary Rate Interface or the more commonly known B-ISDN or Broadband Interface.

The transmission of the video conference is carried via this ISDN. ISDN cards are like digital modems, but are up to five time faster. They can make use of telephone line telecommunication technology integrated with a fast Broadband technology. This not only makes for a clearer video conference broadcast, but brings down the cost of such technology for business use. By utilizing an ISDN network for video conferencing, more educational institutions, corporations and government agencies can readily afford the use of videoconferencing on a steady basis.

Click here to find out more about video conferencing.

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Video Telepresence - What Is It and Why Do I Need It?

As businesses become more and more international, Corporations are starting to realize the value of being able to have a Video Telepresence when communicating and training across time zones. Technicians and engineers that can facilitate the data and communication technology will be highly sought after positions.

Cisco has taken the lead in providing Video Telepresence Equipment that allows companies to create an environment where they can have face to face real time communication. The word Telepresence represents a real time communication meeting that is similar to face to face.

A Certified Video Telepresence engineer is in high demand because they can provide the environment for effective business communications. Decisions need to be made about room size, lighting, room design, number of cameras, dress for conferences, and protocol on speaking. An understanding of these issues and others such as what sounds can be detected by conference participants will save personal and corporate embarrassment.

A well run Video conference will have protocols for appearance, preliminary facial hygiene checks and an understanding of Camera angles and voice perception. These simple protocols with enhance a corporate image and avoid costly mistakes to the company.

Cisco Certified Video Telepresence engineers are trained on not only the technology but the standard corporate protocols necessary for a successful meeting.

Implementing Advanced TelePresence Video Solutions Part 1 ILT (PAIATVS1) - TVS1 and Implementing Advanced TelePresence Video Solutions Part 2 ILT (PAIATVS2) - TVS2

Provide engineers with the tools they need to design and execute a successful Video Telepresence environment.TVS1 is a 5 day practical based course concentrating on the operation, installation, configuration maintenance and troubleshooting of the Cisco TelePresence C Series codecs (coder/ Decoder); Cisco TelePresence MCUs (Multipoint Control Unit) Operate the Call Control for the Cisco TelePresence (VCS) Video Communication Server and Cisco TelePresence Management Suite.TVS2 is a five day class focused primarily on the Cisco TelePresence Video Communication Server.

Upon completion of these courses the engineer will be able to provide real value to your corporation that will dramatically affect both corporate communications and the corporate bottom line. The corporation be able to do things internationally that had not been possible in the past. Corporate Training and meeting can be delivered in a more unified and consistent approach because the corporation can use the resources from the entire world to provide the most effective approach.

Engineers and technicians that are best suited for this type of position will have a background in networking protocols and data communication. An understanding of VCS IP, H.323 and SIP configurations are helpful in understanding the data communication setup necessary for Video Telepresence.

Engineers or Administrators who have been certified as a CCENT or CCNA are good candidates for this type of position. This is not a prerequisite to the class. Classes that are prerequisites are two online courses: Cisco TelePresence Basics (Online), Using TelePresence: Setup and Operation (Online).

Teknowlogical provides training and technical support solutions for companies using the latest technologies. As our name suggests, TEKnowLogical Solutions puts technology first by integrating technical knowledge with truly logical processes to make your technical workforce and customer base more effective, knowledgeable, and proficient. Born out of necessity, TEKnowLogical Solutions is a global technology services company whose core business is professional, world-class technical training. We take technology training to the next level. Our trainers aren't just your run of the mill presentation peddlers, we are engineers who speak your language and understand your challenges and expectations.

We are proud to announce our new training schedule for Cisco Tandberg user training and partner certification for the first quarter of 2011 and beyond! Please see the events calendar for details. http://teknowlogical.com/.

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High Definition Web Conferencing - A Definition

What exactly is meant by the terms web conferencing, multi-party video and online video conference calls? This applies to online, computer software that enables individuals or groups to communicate together from different, remote locations. Using standard IP Internet lines, with cloud based software that does not require additional hardware or installation onto a users desktop or device.

Users simply log-on and begin talking, lecturing or presenting, the features of modern systems allow for the use of sharing applications such as PowerPoint, Word documentation or Excel Spreadsheets in real time. This therefore not only includes audio visual information but also allows for interactive, informative presentations to take place.

As there is no need for software installation, complicated computer reconfiguring or the purchase of expensive additional hardware it makes for a cost effective and adaptable method of utilising video conferencing. Business-to-business calls are easily set up and allow for the inclusion of many interesting visual components to a call. All that users require is a standard desktop computer, a web-cam and high-speed internet connection and you are ready to make a conference call.

The person running the conference or lecture should ideally use a VoIP headset for the best quality and entrants or delegates are invited to join the call through an email invitation, with a link directly to the conference site, at the click of a mouse.

The use of document sharing is ideal for designers to collaborate, the systems ability to annotate images makes teaching simple and the high quality images produced give hospitals easy access to professional opinions and diagnosticians from afar.

For many years the cost of setting up purpose built video conference room was prohibitive for many companies but the use of normal computers, VoIP technology and off the shelf peripherals such as web-cams and speakers make it universally available. This has led to an overwhelming increasing in businesses that are linking up across the Internet.

It has led to a democratisation of the business world, as SME's are now able to capitalise on the global economy and no just multi national corporations. Companies are able to conduct weekly sales talks, advertising promotions, and design development directly with customers on the other side of the world without any problem. High definition video calls are now possible from the executive boardroom to the kitchen table with nothing more costly than a computer connected to the Internet with a web-cam.

Alex started using video conferencing as a student and later participated in developing HDVC equipment.

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Video Conferencing - Potential Medical Applications

While most peoples idea of video conferencing is of group executives sitting around the boardroom table talking to the CEO over a video link on his island paradise. However, video conferencing has come a long way from this stylised image and technological revolutions on the architecture delivering online conferences mean that everyone, anywhere can do it.

One really useful application for high definition, video conferencing is in the field of medicine. There are a number of incredibly versatile and in many instances life saving uses to which video conferencing can be put.

The technology is such that even a simple desktop computer logged onto the internet can provide a valuable high definition video link with a medical specialist or surgeon. The software running such programs is so sophisticated that you can achieve television quality images with incredible sound quality every time. The system ensures that there is no delay or latency in the image screening and that breaks in communication do not occur.

When advising on a delicate operation or the emergency administration of treatment the last thing any doctor would wish to happen is for the system to need rebooting or poor picture quality making it impossible to decide what is going on. The HDVC system provides television quality image presentation and offers crystal clear sound; helping surgeons make the correct diagnosis and offer accurate advice.

A simple but high quality system is also a great aid in the remote care and monitoring of patients who are laid up in difficult to reach places or long stay home patients that need the occasional check up, or to monitor post operation recovery when the doctor is unable to attend in person.

The system, which runs of a desktop computer, can also provide an incredibly useful tool for, often cash strapped health authorities at a fraction of the cost that more traditional video conferencing systems cost.

The same system can also be helpful in the sphere of medical training through easy access conferencing either in house or for remote students. The presentations can also include a whole array of multimedia enhancements, document files, sound and audio clips and PowerPoint presentations. All provided in glorious Technicolor.

Whether HDVC is used as a teaching aid, consultative link or patient monitoring system there are many practical uses that hospitals and medical professionals can put high definition video conferencing to and increase the quality of patient care and student education as well.

Alex acquired various programming skills at university. Recently he got involved with working not only on video conferencing software but with HDVC equipment as well.

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Video Conferencing to Save on Travel Costs

Over the last few years many businesses have struggled due to the financial problems business as a whole has encountered. This has made saving money more important than even with many budgets being cut. This has included travel budgets.

As well as the economy leading to less business travel, in some areas transport costs have also risen. The increasing price of oil has been a major factor in making a high amount of travel unaffordable, and this is a trend that is not likely to change.

There are other advantages apart from cost that businesses have for cutting employee travel. It also saves on time, and being more productive makes a business more money in the long run. It is more environmentally friendly too, something that has become more important to many in recent years.

Although there are positives of not travelling, there are also negatives. Travel may be necessary for meetings, so there could be less company get-togethers to discuss business and forward planning. This can mean a lack of planning that eventually leads to a less profitable business. Depending on the geographic location of customers, travelling less can mean not meeting customers as regularly, potentially damaging customer relationships. It can also prevent a business from going out and generating additional work.

So, while there are positives of cutting down on travel, there are also negatives that can impact profitability. There is, however, one way of not travelling but preventing many of these potential problems. The solution could be Video Conferencing.

More businesses are utilising video conferencing as a way of travelling less while still being able to communicate with fellow employees and customers. It can replace holding business meetings in person. For example, if employees need to meet with a customer, they can each use a video conferencing suite for audio/visual communication with each other. They will each be filmed, with their voices recorded, and this can be transmitted across to the video conferencing suite on the other end. There, they will be seen on monitors or large video screens, and heard through microphones. This all takes place instantaneously, meaning no delays. If video conferencing can be utilised there will be many situations where in-person meetings will no longer be required.

Video conferencing is not a cheap option. However, it can save money once travel savings are taken into consideration. Not only that, but due to the travel time saved, it can also lead to better employee productivity. Travelling can take up a lot of time, especially when travelling abroad. If travelling by air there is the time travelling to and from the airport at both ends, the time spent at the airport checking in, boarding and collecting luggage, and the flight time itself. There is also the likelihood of having to stay overnight, possibly the night before and after the meeting. This can be a lot of hassle for one meeting. It can take three days for a three hours meeting. This would only take three hours if using video conferencing instead.

There are always going to be times when face-to-face meetings with clients and staff are necessary. However, with video conferencing technology, this can be reduced while still allowing meetings to take place and seeing facial expressions and body language. This can save businesses money and increase productivity.

Andrew Marshall ©

Original article

The Hidden Advantages of Video Conferencing

Video conferencing is nothing new. The first video conference was held in 1968. And if you remember Neil Armstrong on the moon, we saw "live" video pictures and had a two-way radio conversation with him at the same time. And TV news programmes have been interviewing people "down the line" ever since it was all in black-and-white. So we are pretty much used to the technology.

However, in business the cost of the equipment was prohibitive for many companies, except big blue-chip firms. And even then, they needed to set aside a special meeting room for the purpose. Of course, things have changed in recent years with dramatic reductions in the cost of video technology and the increased portability of it. Indeed, you only need a webcam on a laptop to hold a live video conference these days - and you can even take part while your on a train, for instance...!

But that might not be such a good idea to discuss confidential matters or future plans for your business...! Portable, web-based video conferencing clearly has its place, but for many companies more secure and higher quality solutions are necessary. And these will cost more than web conferencing, so people clearly want to know the advantages they'll get for spending more money.

The advantages of video conferencing are mostly obvious. For instance, you save money on having to travel and you can reduce your carbon footprint as a result. Then there is speed - rather than having to spend a few days travelling around to your offices or to your clients, you can get the discussion done, over the video conference, cutting back on the time it takes, helping you meet deadlines more easily.

However, there are some extra advantages of video conferencing which are not always so obvious.

Firstly, there's the ability to bring in extra information and additional participants. How often have you been in a meeting and wanted to show the other participants some data - only to find it is back in the office? The only way out of that is to say you will email it to them later - and then you forget...! With video conferencing you can load your files live for everyone to see the relevant information. It is this easy access to all your information that means video conferencing has another "edge" over traditional meetings. You can also call in someone with particular expertise - you can't easily do that if you are in a physical meeting at a different location to the person with the knowledge you want to tap into.

Secondly, video conferencing helps boost creativity. That's because with video conferencing true collaboration is possible. In traditional meetings, someone stands at the front, gives their presentation and others comment or discuss. But they cannot "work" on that presentation - add to the data, enhance the information or change things in any way. With video conferences that include screen sharing that is possible - participants truly can work together, often across international boundaries and time zones, collaborating on a project, rather than working asynchronously, which is the norm for most businesses. And when people collaborate, rather than work separately, they tend to be more creative, coming up with more ideas and potential solutions to problems.

So, not only can a business save money with video conferencing, they can also increase their productivity, speed up their work and be more creative at the same time.

Jon Knight is the Managing Director of Smarter Interactive, a leading supplier of video conferencing services. See: http://www.smarterinteractive.co.uk/

Original article