Do-It-Yourself Videoconferencing

Do-It-Yourself Videoconferencing - What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

Videoconferencing technology has made its way to the small screen, and you may be tempted to set up a videoconference amongst partners or even clients using low-cost Web-based services. Advertisements tell you that "all you need is a laptop and a webcam" but is that really true? Is videoconferencing really that easy? And if it is, should your firm start hosting do-it-yourself videoconferences?

http://www.edigitalvideo.org/

Services touting low-cost videoconferencing are plentiful. Some of the ones you may have heard about include Skype, Google Talk, Go To Meeting, and WebEx. Each of these services requires special software and a compatible computer, making this one of the first obstacles to a successful videoconference. Not only must you install software on your own system, so must all attendees. After installing the software, you will need to test your video and audio equipment to ensure that it works. If you do not have an integrated webcam and microphone, you will need to invest in the hardware and install that as well. For audio, you could also set up a phone bridge via a telephone conference calling provider, adding yet potential hassle to the videoconference.

Okay, all computers are set up and working - what could possibly go wrong? Plenty! You may discover that your videoconference is limited to fewer participants than expected; the video or sound quality could be poor; or computer noises (such as incoming email chimes and computer keystrokes) could interfere with the conference. Because all attendees must rely on an Internet connection, connectivity is a major concern. If Internet access is unreliable, a do-it-yourself videoconference could be disastrous!

Another concern with using do-it-yourself videoconferencing tools is the lack of control over the environment. For example, if you hired a litigation support company to set up and facilitate the videoconference in your conference room or went to a videoconferencing facility, you and your partners would be more likely to project a professional appearance throughout the session. On the other hand, if all partners signed in individually via their laptops, you have less control over the environment - and thus the image projected. While you may participate from the boardroom, another may participate from her home office and another from the local coffee house. This may be fine for informal chats, but off-putting when clients are involved.

Finally, some participants may opt to share a videoconferencing connection rather than setting up their own individual computers. While two users sitting in front of a laptop may work, this doesn't work for larger groups.

In short, if you're planning a do-it-yourself videoconference using inexpensive online tools, make sure that all participants:

• Download and install the necessary software

• Have software that supports the number of participants you intend on including

• Have working webcams and microphones

• Test their setups

• Have reliable Internet access

• Test their access and use the videoconferencing software

• Know how to join the videoconference

• Access to a quiet, professional environment

• Turn off any computer alerts that chime, chirp, or make noise

If you'd rather ensure a smooth, professional videoconference, dispense with the do-it-yourself tools and team up with a videoconferencing specialist. All you and your participants will need to do is show up and participate.

Sunbelt tailors a wide range of litigation support solutions specializing in a worry-free approach empowering litigators to turn their full attention to winning their case.

Visit us at: http://www.sunbeltreporting.com/