Benefits of Unified Communications in a globalized economy

Globalization has played an important role in changing the structure of economic activities in a developing country such as Malaysia . It has become the economic growth that has resulted brought about enormous changes in the distribution of wealth and business expansion in the country. With the help of globalization, companies have developed better access to the markets of developed countries . Malaysian companies have customers all over the world and export their goods to all parts of the world . Such firms may Unified Communication (UC ) solutions , to keep a close tab on all of their branches and employees and interacting with customers from overseas.

Unified communication and collaboration suite enable companies to streamline business communication process efficiently and effectively. This collaborative solution combines email , instant messaging, conferencing, web and audio conferencing , voice mail, business phone - , video and fax. It integrates applications, data and voice communication through a common interface , so that users can access the required content work together to send and receive messages and optimally . UC also enables workers to access and manage all messages, voice mail messages generate and send you the same as attachments.

In this globalized economy , traveling has become a necessity for exploring new market opportunities. Face-to- face interactions with colleagues , employees and customers are the most effective way of communicating and negotiating and closing deals . But with the help of audio and video conferencing tools such as integrated communication solutions, users can enjoy the visual communication with the target group , without leaving their desks .

Can customize company based in Hong Kong as unified collaboration and communication suites to make customized collaboration experience for their employees. You can also use these tools to work together to promote a professional image to potential customers, suppliers, investors, etc. Branding welcome news , music on hold are just some of the features that can be adapted by a company in UC solutions .

Unified Communication solutions allow users to interact with other team members or employees using laptops, desktops, smartphones and tablet computers from anywhere in the world . Conferencing Service Provider ( CSP ) to understand that the corporate audience migration to mobile gadgets quickly and develops applications , set up the user or an event at a moments notice with their handheld device to enable .

Integrated Communication suite helps in increasing customer service and improving employee productivity. This in turn increases the customer satisfaction levels and helps in keeping them , making the customer loyalty and goodwill in the market, a valuable commodity in the international market. Therefore, one can say that the implementation of UC solutions in their communications infrastructures Malaysian companies to help in streamlining operations , reducing costs and earn goodwill.

Introduction of Tax Incentives for Using Video Conferencing Equipment

A recent report published by the WWF has highlighted the growing popularity of video conferencing in some of the UK's biggest companies. The "Moving On" report is part of the WWF's 'One in Five Challenge', a programme designed to help businesses as well as the government to reduce business travel, which in turn will reduce costs and cut carbon emissions. Over 150 companies took part in the survey for the 'Moving on' report, all of which are among the UK's top 500; the overall aim being to establish whether business travel and meeting practices among the UK's leading companies had changed in the last two years.

Survey Findings

Nearly 50% of respondents said that their company had cut the total number of business flights it had taken in the past two years. Surprisingly, from those companies which had cut their flying, 85% do not intend to return to 'business as usual' levels. In fact, 63% of companies that responded now have a policy in place to reduce business flights, or are intending to implement one.

What's evident is that the UK's top companies are changing the way they meet and collaborate. The use of video conferencing has increased by 75% and is expected to keep growing. The adoption of video conferencing would be further enhanced if the government take on board the recommendations from the study. The most popular government initiative to encourage alternatives to business flying would be the 'nationwide provision of high-speed broadband' which was favoured by nearly 85% of respondents. Also, a key recommendation of the report would be the introduction of tax incentives for video conferencing equipment and its use.

The report also highlighted that the UK's leading businesses are now looking beyond the associated cost savings from reduced travel that conferencing technology provides and are actually increasing productivity.

Other than the reduction of costs from cutting travel, some other key findings from the study were:

Reductions in companies' carbon footprintMore flexibility for staff and improved work-life balanceThe ability of staff to continue working during disruption to travel networksThe new culture of working and collaborating - where staff question the need to travel

Ultimately, the research shows that in the last few years, whilst the UK has been in a recession, the majority of those companies who took part in this survey have reduced their business travel and increased their use of different conferencing technologies - such as audio, web and video conferencing.

Conferencing technology is becoming even more sophisticated and it's expected that there will be yet more changes to the way businesses communicate and collaborate. The growing popularity of unified communications and desktop video solutions will make video conferencing more accessible to a broader range of businesses - particularly small to medium sized enterprises (SME's), who still account for 99.9% of the UK's private business sector!

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Video Conferencing Phone

I just got off a video conferencing phone call with my daughter, Katie, in Sweden and my friend, Gilbert, in Arizona. We were able to do this because each of us has one of these amazing phones.

I venture to say that most of us still think that video conferencing is complicated and expensive. The popular misconception is that this requires sophisticated know how. Those days are gone. It's a piece of cake and it's available to all of us ordinary people at a ridiculously low price.

It's called a video phone.

There are various models available on the market right now, but only one home video phone that offers true conferencing capabilities. You can have this for less than you are paying right now for your home telephone line. About $33 per month will get you unlimited local and long distance calling to over 60 countries. The hardware cost is about $180, it's a breeze to hook it up and a child can operate it.

This new phone replaces your existing home phone. Your cordless phone handsets will continue to work exactly as they always have.

This is possible because of a complete paradigm shift. A shift in technology. A new discovery of what is possible with digital video communication using the internet as a digital video backbone network.

You might be thinking like I did when the cell phone first arrived or the fax machine or the personal computer. Well, the same thing is happening with video communications. We will all be talking to and seeing each other via digital video technology, within the next few years. It's predicted this will happen by 2014 (66% of us worldwide, believe it or not). It sounds crazy, doesn't it?

My favourite video conferencing phone is the result of collaboration between Texas Instruments, Ojo Labs and Worldgate Communications. This phone is now in its fifth generation of development and represents, by far, the best quality and best value.

Look for these benefits and features that should come standard with your phone:
7 inch, live streaming video picture that runs at over 30 frames per second. (That's high definition).Stereo sound, hands free sound and high quality sound pick up microphonesNo "lag time". No more jumpy, pixelated video picturesReliable digital video network provider500 name and number speed dial memoryOne touch button for conferencingActs as rotating photo frame while not in use as a phoneShould have USB port to download favouritesWi Fi should be built in (where there is no hard internet connection)Interfaces with new generation video mobile cell phonesPortable, works anywhere in the world where there is a high speed internet connectionInterfaces with your Cordless home handsetsAuto adjusts to appropriate band width for optimum video and audio receptionHooks to your wide screen TV, see the person(s) you're talking to on your TV in high defSave money. Your local and long distance calling plan should be unlimited to at least 60 countries and should be much less cost than your existing home phone calling plan.Software updates should be automatic via the internet

When you travel, take your phone with you. It doesn't matter where you are in the world. Plug it in to high speed internet and you are ready make calls to almost any kind of phone almost anywhere in the world. It operates just like your regular home phone. Your video phone number resides "inside" the phone. This means that anyone "back home" with the same area code can call you toll free. It's a local call for them and you can talk as long as you want. It's unlimited.

Your correct choice of video phone will make the difference in terms of the quality and enjoyment of connecting with family and friends.

For more specific recommendations and/or advice, see this free report

Happy video calling,

John Wannop

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5 Ways Video Conferencing Makes Employee Training Simple

One of the most pressing issues a business executive faces is finding creative and innovative ways to keep employees trained and motivated. Ongoing training and development sessions not only provide a means for employees to grow on a personal and professional level, but it also assures team members will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for a profitable business.

Maintaining an ongoing training program is not always easy, especially when teams operate on an international level. In this situation, employees are either asked to travel to one general location for participation in a training session or the trainer must travel to the remote office and conduct the training there. With the high cost of travel, neither one of these options is a viable solution.

Businesses today are transforming the way company-wide training is conducted. Company personnel are no longer required to leave the comfort of their homes and offices. By introducing online training through web-based video conferencing, not only are businesses able to drastically reduce the cost of travel but they also see an increase in employee productivity and job satisfaction. Here's how:
Conduct new employee training: The first few weeks of a new job can be extremely stressful. Often times large organizations either have to fly a trainer in from their headquarters or send the new employee to a remote location, which adds to that stress. Using video conferencing for employee on-boarding helps to reduce the stress caused by starting a new job. New hires can participate in live job training from the comfort of their home office.Increase amount of learning and knowledge: On the job training should not be limited to new employees. The business world is constantly evolving. Having current employees up-to-date on industry trends and statistics allows them to adapt at a much quicker pace. This is even more important when multiple business locations are involved. Changes in an industry can take place over night. Online training through video conferencing allows businesses to face these changes immediately by giving them a unified platform to reach out to all their employees.Lower industry compliance risks: Keeping employees informed on workplace compliance laws is extremely important. Online compliance training keeps employees informed, reducing the risk of complaints, which helps to create an effective work environmentEducate, motivate and engage: There is nothing more damaging to a business than low employee moral and lack of motivation. Often times this happens in a poor economy. Keeping employees motivated during these times will help organizations stay successful and on task. With video conferencing, companies can instantly communicate with their staff and provide them with education that inspires.Build a training database and library: The great thing about video conferencing is you can record your training sessions and use them at a later time. This is useful when employees need to be retrained on a specific topic or company trainers are not available to meet face-to-face.

In order to run a fluent business, keeping new and current employees trained and updated on company policy is a must. Online training through video conferencing is a cost efficient and flexible method that every business should look into implementing.

This article has been viewed 58 time(s).
Article Submitted On: January 19, 2011

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Use Hosted Video Conferencing for Your Small Business to Beat the Competition

Small businesses have the advantage of being able to make decisions and take action more quickly than big businesses in order to seize a market advantage. One of the most rapidly evolving areas of competitive advantages is in communications. Advanced cellphones and VoIP phone systems have enabled businesses to communicate better internally, with customers, and with suppliers. The next big communications advantage, High Definition business video conferencing, is now available to small businesses thanks to hosted video conferencing cloud services.

As recently as 2009, high definition video conferencing was only available to big companies that were able to afford the investment in equipment, dedicated circuits, and IT staff that were necessary to operate the system. HD video was a large improvement over previous video conferencing, and allowed both sides to actually see facial expression so true communication could happen. Even as lower cost systems became available, it was still complex to set up high def video communications over the Internet that would work reliably.

Most small businesses were relegated to using services like Skype or Webex, both of which incorporated video, but at lower resolution and capability. Furthermore, these were running on workstations, and the video quality was not near the size and clarity of dedicated equipment with large LCD screens. As big companies were able to start making HD video calls over the Internet, small businesses fell behind.

Now small businesses have the opportunity to not only get to the same level as big businesses with regards to HD video conferencing, but have the opportunity to go one step further. Just like there are hosted VoIP services available, there are now hosted high definition video services available. Just like hosted VoIP, small businesses have an advantage because the system works best when every site has broadband Internet access. Furthermore, no expensive back end conferencing equipment or firewall maintenance is needed.

Small businesses now have the opportunity to gain better communications capabilities. They can just sign up for the service and start having HD video calls and conferences over the Internet to customers, suppliers, and other branches of their company. Advanced video conferencing can be initiated by a call that is as simple as dialing a cellphone, providing the face to face discussion capability everyone wants to have.

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Voice Conferencing - Change the Way Business Works

Centuries are changing as well the global economy is evolving and with that changing is the way the people used to run their business. The perception of the business houses has changed from the one not restricted within a premise boundaries and the geographical distances has become virtual.

Organizations sell and serve their products and services across the globe now, which demand frequent travel, meetings with the customer. All this incur a huge expenditure amount on the company. To reduce this cost telephone conferencing is the most effective way for businesses to keep in touch with their branch offices, employees, shareholders and even customers. This lead to the increasing popularity of voice conferencing, also known as teleconferencing among all size of organizations.

Voice conferencing is an easy way to conduct meeting with business counterparts or communicate with subordinates or colleagues located in the offshore locations. The conferencing provider arranges the call routing across the globe among the various participants. All this is done by providing a user friendly interface which makes teleconferencing possible in real time at affordable price.

There are many packages available in the market for full, reserved or flat rates. Business can select the best option available depending upon their requirements and budget. Voice conferencing offers many features like echo cancellation, voice recording, line muting and attendee dial out along with the flexibility to make calls virtually anywhere in the world at any time.

Benefit your organization or an individual by availing the services of a conferencing: which make use of a cost effective voice conferencing solutions that reduces the expenses of having meeting in person. These advancements in technology help to increase the profitability ratio of any business and also provide highly consistent mode of communication. Theses solutions will help in boosting employees productivity, streamlining the business communications and most important reduce the expenses spend on business travel.

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Why Paid Conferencing Services Are Better Than Skype

Over the last few years, Skype has become one of the most popular platforms for a lot of users when it comes to making calls over the Internet.

It allows free (or cheap) audio or video conference calls for users, and lets you connect to people or friends both nationally and internationally. It's also easy to set up, with a simple downloading of the software all that's required (and, obviously, an account).

Because of Skype's growth in popularity, a lot of people have said that conferencing is no longer needed, or will begin to decline as Skype takes over (especially from a cost angle). But how correct is that?

The Cost Factor

Perhaps one of the biggest factors that's helped Skype become so popular is the cost. Because it's using the Internet to connect callers, it's free to use - all you need is an Internet account from a service provider.

There are some premium services on Skype - calling landline phones via your Skype account, for example - where there is a cost involved, yet it's still fairly minimal.

But is the cost factor such a benefit? It depends on your needs, and how you're using a connection platform, whether it's Skype or a conferencing service.

With Skype, you're relying on your Internet connection being sturdy enough to keep the call live. This isn't always the case - if you're using a router, for example, your signal can often be lost. If you're on a Skype call, and your router fails, your call fails.

With a conference call, you're only relying on your phone service provider, and they're generally more reliable than the Internet (especially when people are dealing with different download speeds).

The Quality Factor

As mentioned above, the cost factor is one of Skype's advantages. However, it's also one of its disadvantages.

With any free platform, there's usually a drop-off in quality because of the low or zero cost of entry. Skype isn't any different.

While the video quality of Skype isn't the worst - especially when thinking back to the days of dial-up and early video encoding - it's still not the best quality. You can have a choppy feed, as well as have different video quality depending on browser.

With a video conference, the software is optimized specifically for that type of call. This increased the quality and the tools available for that method. Additionally, many video conferencing options allow for multi-point video feeds (something that Skype struggles with).

These are just a couple of examples why, as good as Skype is, it's more of a consumer product than a business one. There's nothing wrong with being that - but if you're looking at hosting any kind of quality conference services then, as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for.

AccuConference is one of the leading conferencing service provider companies in North America. Choose from any conference call packages and get the tools you need to keep your participants engaged. If you're not 100% satisfied with your conference call, then you won't pay - guaranteed!

http://accuconference.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Clogg

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Benefits of Video Conferencing With Expert Witnesses

Expert witnesses can make or break a case, and the best ones could be located hundreds or thousands of miles away! Even if your firm has the resources to fly the expert witness to your location, many experts are simply too busy to travel or unwilling to do so because of the time commitment and hassles involved. Video conferencing solves this problem, and a few others, too.

Video Conferences Connect Expert Witnesses with Attorneys

When an expert witness balks at the idea of traveling in order to provide expertise in your case, you have several choices: provide additional incentives, look for another expert, or book a video conference. Additional incentives cost money and it's doubtful the expert will bite. After all, the main objection usually centers on time and inconvenience. The expert's schedule may be such that taking a trip simply isn't feasible. Looking for another expert isn't always an option for your firm, leaving booking a video conference a compromise with real promise.

Video Conferencing Benefit #1

Offering a video conference option could persuade an otherwise reluctant expert witness to agree to a meeting. From the expert's perspective, all he needs to do is sit in front of a camera for a short amount of time and answer a few questions. When compared to booking a flight, traveling across country, staying in a hotel overnight, spending time in an unfamiliar city, speaking in front of other people, and then returning home where work has piled up in his absence, a video conference is appealing.

Video Conferencing Benefit #2

In addition to offering the expert witness the convenience of video conferencing, you can also include your partners and colleagues involved in the case. They too can participate remotely. For example, live video conferencing streaming video, instant messaging features, and even live transcript text can be incorporated into the video conferencing service that you use.

Video Conferencing Benefit #3

Another compelling benefit involves the video nature of the conference - you can record the meeting! This is a terrific way to ensure that the witness demonstrates "camera appeal" and exudes credibility while on camera. Let's face it, some people, no matter how accomplished they may be, simply freeze in front of the camera or when required to speak in public. Wouldn't you rather find out that an expert witness performs poorly at this stage of the case?

Other benefits include the cost advantage over travel and the ability to communicate with the expert witness throughout the case as needed without requiring additional travel. With so many benefits, many attorneys have embraced video conferencing with expert witnesses located locally and beyond. Have you?

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5 Ways Web-Based Video Conferencing Boosts Company Productivity

Time is of the essence, especially for businesses of today that are faced with mounting economic pressure and intense global competition. Minimizing company downtime and increasing company productivity consistently seem to be top of mind subjects for executives and business owners around the world. In order to grow and reach far above and beyond any set of goals, a business must make the most out of each passing minute throughout the day.

A major pitfall in business is caused by employees being absent from work and feeling unmotivated. Modern technology such as web-based video conferencing helps employees stay productive, no matter what the underlying issue may be. Here's how:

Too many business meetings - Well, not really too many business meetings, but business meetings which require employees and company executives to travel. Sitting in traffic, waiting at the airport and even spending the night in a hotel away from home causes unneeded stress on employees. It also takes away from valuable time employees could be in the office working. Conducting business meetings through a web-based video conferencing platform reduces the burden of travel on employees and allows them to participate in meetings without having to travel.Adverse weather conditions - Rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures lead to reduced productivity. This is especially true for employees who commute to work. A harsh rain or snow storm can force road closures or shut down other means of transportation, making it extremely dangerous and often impossible for employees to make it into the office. Video conferencing provides organizations with a backup plan. From the safety of their homes, employees can communicate with team members as if they were all together in the same office.Cold and Flu Season- One of the worst things an employee can do is come into work sick. Not only are they not at their full working capacity, but they are putting other employees at risk of getting sick as well. Many times employees will come into work sick because they can't afford to take time off. Allowing employees to telecommute on days when they are feeling under the weather will help assure a strong and productive workforce.Lack of communication and motivation - Having unmotivated employees is bad for business. Businesses can use web-based video conferencing to boost employee communication. This tool can also be used to broadcast a motivational speaker, or broadcast a motivational message from an executive, throughout many different office locations.Family issues - Having a sick family member can weigh heavily on the mind of employees. Rather than requiring employees to come into the office, where their mind will be on everything but work, through the use of web-based video conferencing, employees can be allowed to communicate from home. This will help keep their productivity level up and give them the freedom to help out their ill family member.

Online communication, such as email and chat allow employees to communicate remotely, but video conferencing makes these connections more powerful. Video conferencing is a direct way to communicate with employees as if they were sitting in the same room. It provides businesses with the power of increasing employee productivity, while maintaining the flexibility to get work done from anywhere, at anytime.

This article has been viewed 67 time(s).
Article Submitted On: January 28, 2011

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Use Web Conferencing To Enhance Your Business Or Create A New Business

Online (web) conferencing software is finding wider and wider acceptance for both business and personal use. Several companies offer web conferencing services. Which is best for you depends on what you intend to use it for now and in the future.

Web conferencing software is different to the Internet messaging and calling software that is also available from many sources. Web conferencing is designed to allow many people to participate in a conference or for a presentation to be made to many viewers, whereas the messaging / calling software is designed for conversations between two or three people.

The better conference software packages can offer much more than just meetings online, although just by having some of your companies meeting online your company could save a small fortune in traveling expenses and be much greener.

Some businesses use their web conferencing software to do sales presentations to prospective customers and to provide after sales support and training to customers, so it is enhancing their existing business.

Online conferencing software can also open up whole new business opportunities, how about online live teaching courses, maybe teaching languages, or computer programming or how to use particular software packages. You could take this even further, how about online live cookery classes, with a decent web cam so people can see what you are doing all sorts of ideas become possible.

As mentioned earlier some web conferencing software offers extra features, such as a white board where participants in a conference can collaborate by drawing and writing on an online white board, to brainstorm or illustrate points.

With some online conferencing you can present a prepared power point or slide presentation, or show a video, some allow you to share the desktop of your PC so you could show how to use a piece of software, or show the output from a piece of software say a graph, or offer support to someone else sharing their desktop to show an issue they are having.

Another nice feature in some of these packages is the ability to record your sessions. These recorded sessions can then be kept as record of some decisions made, or put online as training sessions, or maybe even sold as a product depending on the content.

Web conferencing has become a sophisticated powerful flexible tool, the only limit now is your imagination.

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Why To Opt For Operator Assisted Conferencing

With much advancement in the field of technology, Video Conferencing has been a real blessing. Now, small and large scale organizations restore to the process of Video Conferencing to ensure cheap and faster communication. With the help of Video Conferencing, a host of activities can be completed without much hassle. From Live Video Chats to Slide Show presentations, from holding seminars and meetings to data sharing, Video conference has certainly added to the utmost convenience of every business type.

Video Conferencing Systems can be of four different types - Integrated Conference Room, Desktop Video Conferencing, Set Top Video Conferencing system and Telepresence Conferencing. Desktop Video Conferencing system is much more economical option to opt for but the most commonly used system is the Integrated Room Conferencing system.

Since the time Video Conferencing system evolved, the operators facilitating the conference used to manually dial all the parties each time. They also used to answer the incoming calls and then put the members into a conference call. Although, with more technical advancements, operator assisted conferencing has being replaced by automated techniques, still there are quite a few firms who adhere to the conventional technique of operator assisted conferencing.

Many public companies still use the operator assisted conferencing and Investor Relation companies are one of them. Here, selected group of people are only invited to a live call and there is a requirement to screen the other incoming participants and operators needed herein. These aspiring participants invited by the operator or facilitator to participate online through streaming process. The operator accumulates the necessary information from them, for example, their name, Company's name, e-mail address and more. The operator can also run a question and answer or polling session, if required on behalf of the company.

Operator assisted conferencing is also used in the legal domain by law firms for tort litigation. There are companies that seek to help the consumers who are harmed by the products or services of a particular company. Such type of cases requires co-ordination through large conference calls with multiple parties. And here, operators need to identify a particular party and screen the others during a call. Here also, the operators may conduct a polling or question-answer session.

Video Conference is also used in many Court cases and Operators play a dominant role herein. The operator is required to take all the concerned parties to a call. The calls are recorded and stored for future vigilance, reference and investigation purpose. Many Educational institutions also use Video conferencing calls to hold their training sessions. The same fundamentals are used by the private firms as well. These private firms can hold meetings and interact with associates and clients.

The expert involved in Operator assisted conferencing leads to its growing usages. With this type of video conferencing, a professional is involved with the service provider who co-ordinates the entire conferencing process. Not only the operator helps co-ordinate the entire conference session, but also provides you required assistance in several ways.

In recent years, many more hi-tech amenities have flooded in, but still, adherence to something very conventional pays off. In this regard, we may cite the example of Operator assisted conferencing. Operator Assisted Video conferencing helps you in avoiding the trouble of contacting the Customer Support in case you experience any troubles such as poor audio quality or interrupted service. An operator involved at such a crux will help you by resolving the issue then and there, hence allow you to enjoy the interminable and continuous service.

Video Conference assisted by Operators may be a matter of expense and may cost more, but it's worth every money spent. With this specialized technique, many a valuable business insights can be derived and an impressive business stature can be created as well.

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5 Great Android Apps for Amazing Video Conferencing

Video conferencing makes our lives easier. Connecting with people from school and business has also been made possible because of video conferencing. In line with this, Android also allows its devices to do just that. In no particular order, here are 5 Great Android apps for Amazing Video conferencing:

1. Qik Video Connect

The Android Qik's interface is different with that of its iOs counterpart. The Android version has four blocks on its screen each representing a certain function with its description. Its functions include Video Chat, Record and Share, Video Mail and Video Gallery. Although the Android version differs with the iOs version in its appearance, both have the same functionality.

Aside from its Video Chat function, another thing which you may find interesting is the Video mail. It's just like the Voice Mail but this time, it uses video. An advantage of the Video Mail is that the quality of the video is better than that of the live video chat since it is pre-recorded. The bad news is that you may not be able to use this service for free after June 1 since they will be charging an annual fee for this service.

With Qik, you can also upload your videos to the web and share them via email and SMS. Although Qik has good features, it may not have the best video chat experience. Right now, however, Qik is one of the best options among Video Conferencing Android apps.

2. Tango

The good thing about Tango is that it allows it users to have a cross-platform video chat. That means you can have a video chat with a friend using an iOs even if you're on Android-very cool indeed! Although Fring has this capability, Tango scores more points when it comes to video quality and ease of use. With Tango, one can also make calls over 3G and 4G networks as well.

Finding your friends using Tango is also made convenient by this app. Tango can search through your Android or iPhone Address book for friends who are on Tango and adds them into the app's contact list. Also, setup of this app is quite easy.

3. Fring

Fring is user-friendly. Its interface is neat and not cluttered. Even a first-time user wouldn't have a problem getting to know the app. Video Quality is good although not as good as FaceTime (iPhone). Its audio still has more room for improvement. The good thing, though, is that it can be downloaded from the Android website for free.

4. Knocking Live Video

Knocking Live Video lets its user share live video from his phone to another one's. This Video-sharing app used to be available only in the iPhone. Now, it's in Android-good news for Android enthusiasts! This is a cross-platform app which means that an Android user can share live videos to a family or friend who's using the iPhone. It's one of the most popular social network apps today and you can download this app for free.

5. Skype

Skype is undeniably one of the best in VoIP apps around. Unfortunately, Android Skype doesn't have video conferencing with the exception of 4G phones. A lot are hopeful though that this service would extend to non-4G phones in the near future.

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What Are The Reasons For Increased Use Of Voice Conferencing Service?

Global economy is slowly reviving and bringing a change in the mindset of business owners. As a result, business organizations are not limited to their premises only and have crossed over geographical barriers. They are using latest communication technologies like voice conferencing and enabling their employees to attend business meetings, seminars and other business related training at different branches across the world. They are also using phone conference solutions to keep in touch with their company employees, business partners and investors regularly and take unanimous decisions whenever required. In this way, they are able to reduce their travel expenditure, increase productivity and save their employees from wasting time in traveling distant places. This is one of the most important reasons why voice conferencing otherwise known as audio conferencing is becoming popular among every small to large scale business organization.

What is Voice Conferencing?

Voice conferencing is an advance communication method which uses telecommunication system to facilitate online exchange of information among multiple persons through machines situated in far-flung areas. To be precise, phone conference or teleconference is the process of making a conference call over phone that could connect two or persons and help them to share message, file and documents.

Possible Reasons For Growing Use of Teleconferencing

Teleconferencing is the easiest and cheapest way to carry out online meeting with business partners, investors or interact with colleagues or juniors working in the distant places. Several web conferencing solution providers are there in market that play crucial in providing video conferencing service and making the call routing possible among multiple participants. They allow participants to use an easy to install and operate interface and get real-time voice conferencing service at competitive price.

The audio conference solutions are available in different packages for full or discount price that can be decided as per customer's individual communication needs. In addition to this, the phone conference call participants can have access to advance communication features like call recording, line muting, echo cancellation and dial out the attendee together with the facility to make immediate calls to any remote places without any restriction.

Basically, popularity of video conferencing service depends on its reliability, convenience and usefulness. It reduces communication expenditure and permits business owners to conduct key business meetings while having the luxury to sit at office. For this, they neither have to check out flight details nor wait in line to book the tickets. What they have to do is to dial up connection and make audio conference calls to start interacting with partners and clients over phone.

Voice conferencing service turns out to be the cost-effective as compared to other forms of conference. It not only minimizes the operation cost of business organizations and individuals but also give them high return on investment. The audio conference companies use latest communication gadgets and technology to give businesses greater profit along with a reliable option for communication. You can ask for service details from voice conferencing service providers and choose the package that suits your business requirement. So, be ready to use audio conference solutions in restructuring your business interaction and take your business to advance level.

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Start Utilizing Video Conferencing Today

Have you recently moved to another city or state, or possibly even country, and desire to communicate with those closest to you? Or perhaps you are the owner of a business that makes many different offers or has many meetings via video conference? If so, you should know that there are a large variety of different companies out there right now that offer the best in video conferencing technology, and could be absolutely perfect for your personal use or business.

Many people already use video conference personally, as it allows them to communicate with different people all across the world. Students in college often use certain Video Conference programs that can allow them to speak with their friends and family, and feel a little bit less homesick. Video conference is a fairly new invention, but only in the domestic sense. Video conferencing is readily available in many different platforms, and can different programs can even be downloaded from the Internet for free today to allow anyone and everyone to be able to hold a video conference.

Many people utilize these programs in order to hold meetings, interviews, and just to chat casually with many different people all over the world! Video conferencing is incredibly valuable to all of those that utilize it, If you are someone that wants to remain in contact with a large number of different friends, family, and loved ones, or have a business that needs to start utilizing conferencing services in order to reach a larger client base, then don't hesitate a minute longer in getting your video conferencing software today.

There are many different programs out there that will allow you to hold video conferences. All you need to do to find the perfect one for you is research online the different platforms and programs, and the features that they offer. Video conferencing is beneficial for anyone and everyone, and is an incredibly valuable tool and technology that should be utilized by anyone that is interested! You can remain in contact with friends, family, and loved ones, or enjoy video conferencing for business related reasons! Get your software today!

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Article Submitted On: January 27, 2011

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Free Audio Conferencing - Four Core Benefits

Conference calling is probably the easiest and most effective mode of communication of all web based interactive channels. Web conferencing is available in both audio and video modes which directly enhance business and individual interactions significantly. Moreover, incorporation of advanced technology has further facilitated the entire process in the past few years. Apart from the high end conferencing facilities, you can avail free audio conferencing from various resources on the web.

Here are some of the core benefits of the free audio conferencing facilities:

? You are able to choose to conduct the conferencing session at your convenience. Once you sign up with a particular provider, it is solely your discretion if you want to hold the conference at midnight! But when you require operator assistance, you might have to schedule the conference call in advance. Generally the additional features are not available with free web conferencing. To get them, you might require paying a nominal fee.

? You are the one who takes control over the audio conference. No third party intervention is necessary for this matter. You will be given an access code using which you can make conference calls to individuals or groups based at any geographical location. Time and distance has no restrictions on web conferencing.

? Free audio conferencing allows you to communicate with others as per your convenience. For example, you can put them on hold whenever you need following the proper call etiquettes. Apart from that you can browse through reference materials, check for data or even finish some chores while talking to your clients!

? Call recording is another useful feature of free audio conferencing. You can start recording the call for future reference with a single click and stop recording as per need. The calls are recorded and automatically saved in MP3 or other specified formats.

Apart from these special benefits, free audio conferencing also has the general advantages. It is much cost effective than holding conferences physically at different venues. You can reach out a global clientele using this service. It saves time, resources and money. Also you are able to win the confidence of your clients by communicating with them in a more elaborate and interactive manner.

Now that you are aware of the advantages and features of free audio conferencing, you might like to exploit them to grow your business bigger. If you would like more information on free audio conferencing, then please visit our corporate web site at http://www.conferencecallnow.com/

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Video Conferencing And Its Basic Components

In a faster processing world where methods for easy contacts rule, video conferencing can help you get connected to more than one people at different locations in the same time. Not only you can interact with other call participants located in far distant places but also can listen, watch, send and receive files from them. This is the reason why many business houses prefer to use video conference system to keep in touch with their customers, employees and associates in the remote places of world.

Videoconferencing really facilitates easy communication and you can use it to save cost on business trips. Here is given a brief coverage of this easier communication mean so as to help you explore its basic components and use them to their fullest capacities.

How Effective Is Video Conferencing?

Video conference is a faster communication mechanism that lets you to speak, listen, see as well as share files, documents and important information with your colleagues, suppliers and investors over a LAN or WAN connection. The contact process is usually fast and effective as it takes place in a collaborative environment.

Who Can Use Video Conference?

Videoconferencing is recognized as a cost saving communication measure these days. So, it can help all those who use flights and other expensive communication modes to attend business meetings, seminars and events etc. They can save a considerable amount of money, time and chaos by interacting and meeting with clients and colleagues through video conferencing. Some of the globally recognized business organizations depend on web conference companies for making reliable and professional contacts with their counterparts. Small to medium sized business organizations are also coming to realize the powerful effects of teleconferencing. In addition to this, federal and state agencies, non-profit organizations, trade organizations, accountants, attorneys, educators, physicians, consultant agencies, executive law firms and human resource executives can use video conferencing services to communicate in real time.

What Are The Types Of TeleConferencing?

Video conferencing are of two types and you can choose the one depending on your communication requirement.

1. Point to point teleconferencing - In this kind of video conferencing, real time communication can take place among an unlimited number of users present in two separate locations. This type of teleconferencing works best for small businesses not having more than a single branch office. It does not require any major technical set up and you can start with simple dial-up, compatible codec equipment and switched network services.

2. Multi point teleconferencing - This communication method is adored by every business organization as it makes interaction possible among an unlimited number of users present in three or multiple locations. It can save both money and time of multinational companies having multiple branch offices throughout the world. However, different digital transmission signals, vendor codec equipment and network services will be required to start with multi point teleconferencing.

What Are The Basic Components of Video Conference?

The basic components of videoconferencing used to vary from one place to another, often transmitting signals at variable speeds and using different IP protocols. However the minimum components required for every kind of videoconference remain more or less the same. They include a camera, a monitor, a speaker, a codec and a microphone. When the microphone and camera capture sound and image, the codec converts the audio and video signals into digital signals and encodes them to send out properly. Again, the codec helps in decoding the signal at the other end and delivers the audio and video signal at the receiving end.

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Audio Conferencing For Cost-Effective Communication

The advanced technology of conferencing has decremented the hassles of the modern day business houses. Since, conferencing has eased the mode of communication, interactive sessions between more than one parties can be initiated easily, sans much hassles. Modern technology is accredited with inception of three major conference calling system, namely, web or internet conferencing, audio conferencing and video conferencing. While phone conference system is much more preferred owing to its easy features and availability, web conferencing is deemed to be more users friendly. Web Conferencing enables easy access and sharing of files and real time data can be hence exchanged. Video conference call involves advanced technologies and facilitates outstanding communication.

Audio conferencing can be conducted through regular telephones or via computer. Teleconference can be initiated by dialing an access or security code provided by the service providers. In the second type of audio conference call, communication is facilitated through special Voice over Internet Protocol software. Today, there are number of conference call facilitators to serve the communication needs of business houses properly. Each audio conferencing company attributes its service with unique features and the most common being recording, translation, presenting data list and many more.

Audio Conferencing company has access to the most sought after techniques that can make customers enjoy interruption free conference calls. Since the process of teleconferencing is much easier as compared to other conference calling techniques, even the first time users can implement the same with all ease.

For initiating audio conferencing, the invitees are sent request to join the conference and if they assure of their availability, then time and place is also decided. If the participants are located at different time zones then timing of the conference is needed to be set accordingly. For an undisturbed conference session, it should be ensured that the proper phone equipments are utilized. Sometimes, the assistance of the operator is also required to ensure that the audio quality of the conference call is maintained and the entire conference session is evenly monitored.

Audio Conferencing finds wide scale application in many a business houses. In legal realms, audio conference is employed to conduct deposition and affirmation meetings with lawyers and judges. In pharmaceutical realms, audio conference calls are considered best for training purposes as well as for providing advices to patients. In top corporate realms, audio conference is used in recruitments, seminars and other important meetings. Conference calls, especially audio conference are also used in educational institutions. Specially, in rural education programme, educational resources are spread through audio conferencing.

Conferencing is a beneficial medium for the organizations whereby they can connect to multiple clients and convey the relevant information in single real time. An audio conferencing company offers multiple benefits. It not only saves time by expanding network reach but also cuts down the costs, doing real good to the fiscal aspects of the organization.

With inception of newer and latest technologies, the realms of communication are in constant flux. So, it is quite obvious that whatever technologies reign today's domain, are susceptible to change. However, till the time these advanced breakthroughs are made, it can be rightly said that today's audio conferencing systems will continue to facilitate business communication in the most easy and effective manner, with all efficiencies.

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Take Your Business Beyond The Limits With Web Conferencing

We are living incredible times. The speed of communication these days is truly amazing. With web conferencing you can communicate with anyone around the world in an easy and very productive way. Your business can gain global importance immediately. Several years ago you needed to travel all around the world to participate at trainings or business meetings. Today with video conferencing you can see and hear everything from the comfort of your office or home. For example if you communicate with a client the other side of the globe you can lay comfortably in your bed, ready to sleep when in his country it's morning.

There are lots of benefits for web conferencing starting with saving travel and hotel money, up to using your time more wisely. You can fill your agenda with more meetings thanks to video conferencing. Along with benefits you will find several bad parts for video conferencing. However, they are rather based on human misunderstandings such as incompatibility between systems or incapability of using them.

On the other hand, hardware video conferencing has several demands. First of all you will need a video camera, a microphone and a computer. Web conferencing demands specialized software for you to be able to connect with others. You can use some paid services or free sites depending on your needs. A paid program has more performance regarding the quality and you will gain specialized help also. This is why for businesses you have to make a small investment in buying video conferencing software. If you want to speak with your friends a free video conferencing is all what you need. Create an account add contacts from your friends and you are ready to start.

Lots of businesses are based only on video conferencing. Everyone will see and hear you. These days the quality is so high that it will be as being there. Having better and better internet connections the quality of the signal had risen. This is the power of web conferencing. You can become a trainer in many domains. This is the best option for you if you don't have enough money to rent a physical place. Furthermore, you can gather people willing to pay for your services from all over the world. With video conferencing everything is so simple.

Although the phone is more used, web conferencing offers some new features such as faster communication, lower prices and the possibility to send files in a real time. Being able to see the face of the other, you can tell if your client is satisfied and happy. People can lie on the phone but is harder to hide their emotions on camera. With web conferencing people get connected in a more interpersonal manner. It looks so natural that lots of people are choosing web conferencing instead of old fashion meetings.

Use your time at maximum. Wherever you are you can speak with others through video conferencing. For example if you work on construction sites you can show your clients different stages of the work in the same time giving them useful information by using web conferencing. Give it a try and become a master in communication.

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Things to Do Before Signing a Contract With a Conferencing Provider

If you are currently considering web conferencing to boost your company's functions, then sooner or later, you will be making some research for a worthy conferencing provider. Sure, there are a great number of conferencing providers who can get you first class products and services, but it is imperative that you find the right one with the best package deal. Sometimes, expensive service does not necessarily follow that it is a good one.

Before you pick your choice of a conferencing provider, remember that they will convey your company's image from the very start that you acquire their services. In this case, first impression counts. A lot of options are scattered around the market and a huge number of conferencing providers are battling over potential customers.

These service providers promote that they have the most easy-to-use, best quality, superior services among the rest. While most of them do say so, your challenge relies on finding out who's really telling the truth. Remember that your selection process is not a very easy task so try to make a list to sort things out initially --- it will eventually become clearer and simpler for you to decide who's the most worthy. Take a moment to review company profiles and reread their capabilities if you have to. The process can be agonizing but it will pay off in the end, for sure.

Schedule a meeting with your potential conferencing provider first. This is one great way to plan ahead, making things more convenient to everyone involved. Also, you must take note important things such as if there is a training needed, the cost, hidden expenses, billing, how to utilize the conferencing services and how to set things up.

A lot of options on the web can be chosen but do make sure that you are able to compare your top choices about the services and the prices from one another. Inform yourself with the benefits and the pricing of these companies and understand the comparisons before giving out your decision on whom to choose.

Making conferences is a revolutionary way of communication and it is very important doing business transactions. It is changing things around us. With the latest technology, your company can get the best benefits as well as rake in profits all together.

With a growing business like yours, quality is a priority. That's why hiring a top caliber conferencing provider is a must.

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Integrating Technology With Business - Video Conferencing

Many businesses operate separate offices in several states across the country and even abroad to keep their customer base wide and satisfied with their services. This is a great opportunity for a business to reach customers of all regions. While this is a great benefit to the customers, it can prove difficult to manage to the company itself.

When you have multiple employees spread out over a large span of the nation it can be challenging to ensure that each facility is operating based on the core values of the company and that they are not straying from the practices that have been put in place to ensure excellent service to the customers. This is when it is beneficial to incorporate some of the technologies that are available. By incorporating video conferencing you can keep all sites connected and working in the same direction.

Many people confuse a video call or video chat on the intranet with video conferencing. With the online video chat options, you are simply connecting with images to one person. You can hold individual conversations in a private setting and see what the other person is doing while you are talking. Video conferencing is intended more for the business world. It has much more capabilities than the normal video chat options.

With video conferencing, a business can connect each of their sites to one another to hold a meeting. The cost savings of flying employees to one specified location for a meeting is removed and the attendees may come to the meeting right from their own office space. Without this technology, someone may find that their travel time (time away from their families) is extreme. When video conferencing is introduced, this can lead to happier employees as they do not have to travel far from home to get the updates that are needed.

When a business is able to introduce video conferencing to their operations they are setting the business up for success. By allowing the sites to dial into a video conference right from their location, you are opening the conference up to many more associates. When you have more attendees, you are likely to get some new and original ideas presented, which could lead to amazing growth. It is possible that someone that is typically not able to travel to on site training sessions is able to attend and present their ideas and input.

You can ensure that each location, no matter how far spread they are in the country, is performing to the same standards by holding video teleconferences frequently. You can provide up training and updates on the business so that everyone knows the areas that need work and the way that is proposed to solve any issues that have come to light. Also, if one region is having troubles in a certain area, another group may be able to offer them suggestions on how to resolve the issue.

Video conferencing has opened doors to communication that are benefiting companies worldwide. Changing to a video conferencing system can be a challenge for those that are sometimes resistant to change but the benefits outweigh any uncomfortable feelings and pretty soon each participant will realize the benefits and will wonder why they have not been using this system in the past.

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