subject: Video Conferencing Bridges Gaps In Communication [print this page] Video conferencing is being used in business and corporate settings at an increasing rate. It uses video and audio to bring individuals at separate locations together for a conference or meeting. The capabilities are endless. It can be utilized by as few as two people in different offices to an entire auditorium of individuals linked to another person or group of people. Not only can video conferencing link people, it can also be used to share whiteboards, documents and even surgical procedures.
The majority of all video conferencing is now done by high definition systems. Several components are required for these systems. They include but are not limited to video input, video output, audio input, audio output and data transfer. There are two basic forms of systems. The dedicated system includes all the components in one piece of equipment. This type of system is used for large group conferencing, small group conferencing or individual conferencing. The other type is a desktop system that is used via a computer laptop or PC. Features may include echo cancellation, voice activated switch and continuous presence. Video conferencing screens come in all sizes. They can be as small as your computer screen or as large as an entire wall. The size is generally proportionate to the audience.
Bringing people together via video conferencing is a convenient and cost effective way to cut down on travel expenses and enable meetings to be scheduled in a timely fashion. This type of communication is being utilized more as technology continues to expand. Schools use video conferencing for distance learning programs. Hospitals and surgeons are using this method to perform telemedicine in outlying areas. Corporations and business entities use it to conduct meetings from one continent to another without ever leaving an office. The value of this form of communication increases as the technology is improved.
There are various names used for video conferencing. You may hear terms such as tele-presence system, videophone calls, web-cams and videoconferencing system. They all relate to bringing two or more people together through the use of video streaming. The trend for moving towards this type of communication is due in part to being cost effective, easy to implement, low maintenance, easy to use and the outstanding performance of the product. Video conferencing offers unique solutions for communication needs. It is able to put you in touch with anyone in the world in a timely and budget friendly fashion.