Video conferencing is the ability to show live presentations with a speaker or speakers when the speakers and/or the observers are at different locations. Video conferencing often includes other content in additional to the video such as a computer presentation. Video conferencing equipment cost $3000 or more depending on the setup. Hardware is needed in each location that will participate in the conference, either through broadcasting or receiving the video conference.

A major consideration for video conferencing is bandwidth. A fast internet connection is required for quality broadcasting. It is expensive, but yields the best results.

Polycom – Polycom is the leading standard for video and phone conferencing equipment.

The main components of a basic video conferencing system are:

Hardware – A pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) camera. This is the main video hardware. It’s really more than just a camera as it has the built-in codec, interface, and much more. Other equipment includes telephone, speakers, headset, and video display (computer monitor or television).

Bandwidth – Quality video conferencing requires high-speed Internet services. Either fractional or full T1 line services are recommended ($550 – $1200 per month, depending on speed and network traffic).

Web Conferencing with Video

Web conferencing can include a video feed, however, the quality of the video is not nearly as good as hardware video conferencing above. However, the cost is much less. Equipment costs for each location can be less than $50 and DSL or cable Internet connections are sufficient.

WebEx – WebEx offers a low cost solution that is somewhat of a compromise between full video conferencing and web conferencing, or webinars. This service enables you to see and hear everyone with a phone and a webcam. This is strictly web-based, displaying only on computer screens through browsers such as Internet Explorer or Firefox. WebEx provides a pay-as-you-go service that does not require a monthly commitment.

ReadyTalk – ReadyTalk has partnered with TechSoup.org and offers a level of service equal to WebEx.

Again, these options do not perform as well with live video (choppy, grainy image), but the offset of travel expenditures for a face-to-face meeting make this option more attractive.

Web Conferencing/Webinars

For clarity, we define web conferencing and webinars as the ability to show a PowerPoint type presentation or share a desktop with multiple people at different locations. This does not include a video display, so you don’t see the person speaking.

LogMeIn – LogMeIn offers a free web-based service that is not only great for supporting remote computers but can also be used for point-to-point webinars. With some creative setup and good projectors, LogMeIn’s free service can be adequate for certain training style meeting. There is also the option of paying for advanced service capabilities.

by Shane Nurnberg

[PhotoCredit:ScottFeldstein]