How to Select the Ideal Web Conferencing Service

Author: andy

Just as no two businesses are identical,web conferencing providers vary in not just the services they offer, but the features that come with them. If you're searching for the ideal conferencing solution that will meet your business's current and future needs, then you're in luck – as this blog is meant for you! (Of course, you could always give one of our professional account managers a call today to discuss your options as well).
While many providers offer web conferencing services that address the needs of many businesses, there is no "one size fits all" web conferencing solution. The first step to finding the best conferencing solution to meet your business's unique needs is to understand your needs. Consider the following:

• The size of your audience – web conferencing services that are subscription-based limit the number of participants allowed in each meeting. Of course the number of participants will vary depending on the meetings you conduct, so make sure you choose a solution that will support the maximum number of participants you plan on having – whether it be with 2, 200, or 2,000
• Software requirements – what (if any) software is needed to conduct a web conference? While some require simply a web browser and connection to the Internet, others require specific plug-ins or additional installations
• Attendee management – many providers offer ways to help you organize your conferences, including automated reminders and follow-ups, invitation and registration management, and email templates
• Multiple hosts/presenters – do you plan on sharing the hosting or presenting role with a partner or co-worker? Look for a solution that allows you to pass control to and from one or more participant(s) throughout the duration of your conference

Now that we have covered the big topics, it's time to get down to the fun stuff. While they might seem small, the features that come with your web conferencing service play a big part in how effectively you can communicate your message. Here are a few things to take into account when evaluating your next potential web conferencing solution:

• Sharing – this plays a major role in your ability to communicate with your participants. While simple file sharing is standard for most web conferencing services, you may also want to consider solutions that offer whiteboard and desktop sharing for enhanced collaboration
• Recording – whether you'd like to record your meetings for personal improvement, to aid in employee information retention or training, or to simply let anyone who missed it catch up, the ability to record and store your meetings offers many advantages
• Chat and private sub chat – allow your participants to ask you or other attendees a question or send a comment either publicly to the whole group, or privately to one or two participants during the conference
• Surveys and polls – provide instant feedback both during and after your conferences
• Reports ad stats – offer concise yet in-depth look into the results of your meetings