Audio Conferencing System
When audio conferencing first came to the market,
it revolutionized the way individuals and businesses communicated with each
other and quickly became a staple of conference rooms all over the world. When
videoconferencing first came to market, in contrast, it immediately fizzled
out. Since the initial videoconferencing machines were extremely expensive,
difficult to operate, and only capable of connecting to a limited number of
devices, businesses didn’t feel a pressing need to upgrade.
But now that videoconferencing is a lot more
practical than it was in the 1970s, it’s finally threatening to make audio
conferencing obsolete. This raises the question: Is
videoconferencing really such a huge improvement over audio-only conferences?
For decades, people have managed to collaborate remotely without seeing the
faces of the other people on the call. Is having the added element of video
really such a game changer?
Here are 5 reasons why the combination of audio and
video trumps audio only.
Visual
Aids
Firstly, and most obviously, by relying on just
audio, you lack the ability to use visual aids. This could include anything
from slideshow presentations, whiteboards, flip charts, photos, and so on. For
many, this can be quite limiting and if an organization were to use just an
audio platform, you would have to be very precise with what you are saying to
eliminate the risk of misinterpretation or to successfully communicate facts and
figures.
Human
Interaction
By implementing videoconferencing, you are
instantly encouraging real human connections. Very similar to face-to-face
conversations, it’s much easier to gauge people’s reactions and tone of voice
when using a video platform, something that is much more difficult to do when
using just audio. This makes virtual meetings a lot more intimate, adding a
fresh and authentic feel to discussions.
Room
for Misinterpretation
When exchanging ideas in a videoconference, as said
above, it’s much easier to communicate with individuals as you become aware of
body language, unspoken gestures, all alongside the ability to read the other
people in the meeting, making conversation less emotionless and bland whilst
massively decreasing the risk of misinterpretation.
Concentration
Think back a few years ago. Sitting at a desk with
your designated microphone, listening in to what people have to say, making
your inputs here and there, gaining more and more awareness that you are
sitting in room talking to someone who isn’t actually there. By just using an
audio package, you run the risk of capping productivity. Nobody wants to sit in
a room and just listen. Concentration decreases over time, once again risking
misunderstanding or misinformation. With video aids, concentration is brought
back into the meeting rooms, allowing individuals to engage multiple senses and
remain aware.
Cost
One of the most effective and cost-efficient ways
for businesses to communicate is by telephone or audio conferencing. Remaining
affordable, it is still used by businesses of all sizes around the world. By
using a videoconferencing package, depending on the size of your organization,
the solution can be very expensive and if implemented incorrectly or
unnecessarily, it may cost you much more than you anticipated. (Luckily, there
are plenty of options out there like Skype for Business that are much more
affordable than the higher end packages).
For the most part, videoconferencing
can revolutionize the way businesses work and opens opportunities for companies
to act globally. When looking for a conferencing solution that fits your needs,
it’s important to do your research and monitor what your personal situation requires.
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