When researching videoconferencing for your enterprise there are three big things you should consider. First, how do you intend to use this technology? What is your main application? Second, who do you intend to conference with? — Internal to other offices; external to the supply chain or key accounts? Third, how do I videoconference with those who don’t have the technology? Is there a browser based video conferencing solution available?
The first consideration is critical and potentially has a major impact on your enterprise. Some companies use this internally too simply to eliminate travel between offices, even offices across town. It’s amazing to see the internal use of videoconferencing within a city or a State. Others are compelled to implement videoconferencing because a key account does not want to travel to review progress on a project. Look at your main use with the idea that secondary uses could evolve quickly. For example one structural engineering firm uses videoconferencing to link their 5 offices. This was internal only for project management and administration. Now they are looking at connecting outside of their network to meet with key accounts and key vendors in the supply chain. Distribution companies often use videoconferencing for product training. This application saves a tremendous amount of time and money as reps don’t need to travel for the training. Especially when they use browser based video conferencing.
The second consideration who to you need to videoconference with? Do they have videoconferencing in place already? Is it standards based allowing you to seamlessly connect? Are you connecting to a conference room, executive office, field engineer or rep? The answers to these questions will guide you in the right direction on the best hardware or service solution.
The third consideration – How do you videoconference with those who don’t have the technology? The good news here is that there are seamless solutions. You can easily connect from your conference room system to any PC; Mac; iPad; iPhone; or Driod. The participant at the other end only needs good internet access and a computer or the for mentioned devices. There is no software subscription or software license required. They only need audio and a webcam. In fact if they don’t have a webcam they can still be part of a videoconference. They will certainly see and hear everybody; others will hear them but not see them. This is a good example of browser based video conferencing.
J.W. Hornyak Videoconferencing & Telecommunications
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