subject: Teleconferencing: The Communications Tool for Everyone [print this page] Teleconferencing: The Communications Tool for Everyone
If you own a business, or work in an office, the chances are that you'll have at least some knowledge or experience of conference calls, for everyone else, however, conference calling remains somewhat of a mystery, and is seems to be something that only people in business use. The reality is that this is a complete fabrication, and conference calling is something that anyone, regardless of their occupation, location and circumstances can use.
What is it?
If you've never heard of teleconferencing before, then it's a gadget that helps people talk to more than one person at one time. This may sound like something a normal phone call can do, but what makes conference calling so different is that is enables the user to speak to several people at one time, and in more than one location. This is why it has become a must have item for many businesses, as it enables colleagues to communicate at one time, even if their offices are in different cities or even countries. So a company can have a board meeting at their HQ in London, and talk to colleagues or clients all over the world.
How Does it Work?
All the recipients of the conference call, who cannot be there for the meeting or other gathering that has negated the use of a conference call are given a PIN, much like the one you use at the cash machine. However, this PIN isn't for taking out money, it allows users to dial into' the conference call at any time, which means that after entering their PIN, a user is able to hear and be heard during the call.
Why Should I Do it?
That's a very good question, and it is really up the individual if they think that getting a conference call system is a good idea for them, But people with friends and relatives living in another country often find that teleconferencing is a good idea to help them keep in touch with their loved ones, especially at social events and gatherings, such as weddings, parties, Christmas, and other celebrations. While keeping in touch with absent friends and family by email and instant chat online is often the easiest way to keep in touch, at peak times, such as Christmas and New year the internet will slow down to the increased number of users, which is something that won't affect a telephone call.
Who Can Use it?
The simple answer is everyone, and what's more, conference calls are very easy to find and install. There are lots of conference call providers available online, and many of them offer deals and discounts to first time users. These deals are often less expensive than those offered by some of the best known telephone companies, as the conference call companies specialise in this type of service, and can make sure that you get the best system and the best deal for your money.
