The advancement of the Internet has brought a drastic change in the communication world. Free web conference calling facility is another boon of the revolution. No matter whether you want to make conference calling for the sake of your business or for personal purposes, free web conference calling will let you contact anyone across the globe.
Briefly, it can be said that web conference calling is the means of arranging a group meeting or presentation over the internet. With such a facility, individuals from various locations can involve in a meeting or discussion at the same time. These days, various companies, families and educational institutions are opting for this mode of communication.
A free web conference calling facility is depended on a few types of software. Yes, installing such software is necessary for making a free web conference call. With the software, users can get various facilities including PowerPoint, slide presentation, spreadsheet and file share, text message, voice conference, polls, survey etc.
Now let’s highlight how it works. Usually, VoIP or voice over Internet protocol system operates web conference calling. Such a telecom system enables computer cables to convey sound in data packets forms. Since, these forms follow other routes; hence, they minimize long distance fees.
How can you avail free web conference calling facility? Very easy it is. First opt for the subscription of a VOIP service. Many service providers offer their service over the internet. So, by clicking the mouse, one can get information about that. Do a bit comparison; it will enable you to choose the best conference calling service. Once you will avail the service, you will get web conference calling software that you need to install in order to access VOIP service.
So, opt for free web conference calling service and enjoy conference calling at a minimal rate.
resourcr:www.articledashboard.com
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Conference Call Services - Video Teleconferencing
Conference calling works like a telephone call, which allows the calling-party to have more than one called-party to listen or to communicate. Conference calling can be customized as per requirements: the called-party can be allowed to speak or just make to listen to the audio portion of the calling-party. Conference calling has been a great asset to the business world, and it is also known as Audio Teleconferencing among the corporate professionals. Though conference calling has been used for quite a long-time, but some latest additions to its technology and infrastructure have rendered a new image to it, and have boosted its use in many other sectors apart from the business.
A conference call service certainly has advantages over conventional systems and methods for any business. The competition among the conference call service providers is increasing, and more and more features are emerging to assist the business. Some companies offer global dial-out, record and playback, security pass-codes, conference lock, group mute/un-mute, and roll call, etc., as specialized features of conference call services. It is clear that you can manage your budget better through these services, though the outcomes of these conferences are as effective as it had been with the conventional systems.
Well, with the advancement in technology and also the competition in the market, there are many services offered by companies. However if your conference includes some old managers, corporate professionals, and people who are not too used to the system of audio conference calls, it may not be a smooth process as you would have imagined! So, make sure that all participants for the conference are aware about the system that you are going to use.
Video teleconferencing, as clear from the name itself, is a technology that allows two or more locations or parties to interact through two-way video and audio transmissions, simultaneously. Video teleconferencing is one of the most advanced forms of conference calls, and has a tremendous effect on almost all aspects of business. Video teleconferencing is a relatively new technique and requires a lot of infrastructural setup, software, and network. However, with the advent of Internet, it has been made quite easy and economic, as more efficient video compression technologies were developed that permit desktop-based video teleconferencing
Resource: www.articledashboard.com
Monday, March 3, 2008
Audio Conference Calling: Makes For Better Efficiency And Lower Costs
Great many businesses are taking advantage of greater efficiency and lower costs through the use of audio conference calling. With technology making it possible to share different media methods it is also possible to have a computer’s web browser have software that allows it to interact through audio conference and, make it possible for people to share files, comments on presentations as well as send drawings, movies, documents, graphics etc. and thus improve productivity.
Anywhere In The World, At Any Time
Audio conference calling services can be used anywhere in the world and at any time and, are most popular for everyday, weekly as well as formal meetings and other uses. There are different plans available that provide value for money and suit individual budgets. Audio conference calling is easy to use and with discounted pricing, provides a solution for every conferencing needs. Using audio conference calling services, one can save on costly equipment, travel expenses, as well as get reliable service with crystal clear audio.
With a host of audio conference calling sources, one can conduct business with colleagues that are thousands of miles away. Latest audio conference calling technology allows for more reliable service and with features such as noise cancellation, it gives the user a better quality conferencing experience. When searching for an audio conference calling service provider, one should look for features such as echo cancellation as well as other advanced audio equipment to be sure of getting the best solution for the business conferencing needs.
The audio conference calling process requires the very best in audio conference calling packages that may differ according to the number of participants. Audio conferencing is a means of connecting whereby more than two people can be participating on the same phone call and, choosing the correct method of placing the conference call requires choosing a plan that accommodates the required number of participants.
There are some companies that provide on-demand audio conferencing in which the user gets pre-established calling accounts for each user and, is able to create or participate in conferences without needing to give advance notice. Some of the salient features of a good audio conferencing system should include dial out to new participants, lock conference to future participants as well as attendance/roll call to hear who is on the call, one-touch operator assistance as well as many more individual features that assist in making the calling experience more user-friendly.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Business Solutions – Affordable Conference Calling
In a day and age where expenses are going up everyday it is the responsibility of the individual to try and save money wherever they can. In business this means finding solutions that are not only cost-effective, but also make sure that the reputation of the business is not compromised. That is why affordable conference calling is the way forward for conducting meetings professionally and on time with various clients who need the same information.
Solutions For The Small Business
Small businesses will be looking out for affordable conference calling as they will need to minimise their expenses as much as possible. By having clients or employees spread far and wide travel expenses can needlessly take a lot out of the budget. With technological advances there is no reason for meetings not to be conducted professionally and in a timely manner.
Hotels and Conference Centres can provide affordable conference calling facilities should you not be able to afford the outlay of this type of equipment. These places will offer great comfort and privacy for all of your needs on the day as well as friendly staff to assist to take the added stress out of other problems, such as catering, that you do not need to worry about.
Some conference calling companies have also introduced the ‘Pay as you Go’ system which is perfect for the smaller business. In this way you can conduct your meetings when you need to and are not locked into any contracts that may be unnecessary for your needs. These more affordable conference calling rates are available on request or should be easy to locate on most companies websites.
Solutions For The Big Businesses
Big businesses will normally have more people they need to communicate with at the same time, depending on the project at hand. This can be expensive for them and the time taken to relay the same information to several different groups of people is costly and unnecessary. The much more affordable conference calling facilities that are now on offer mean that in most cases you will not have to leave the office. Information can be conveyed quickly and effectively with the simple use of the telephone or Internet.
Affordable conference calling means that large volumes of information can be quickly and easily shared with large groups of people and take the hassle of travelling from client to client out of the equation.
Source : http://www.refresharticles.com/
Solutions For The Small Business
Small businesses will be looking out for affordable conference calling as they will need to minimise their expenses as much as possible. By having clients or employees spread far and wide travel expenses can needlessly take a lot out of the budget. With technological advances there is no reason for meetings not to be conducted professionally and in a timely manner.
Hotels and Conference Centres can provide affordable conference calling facilities should you not be able to afford the outlay of this type of equipment. These places will offer great comfort and privacy for all of your needs on the day as well as friendly staff to assist to take the added stress out of other problems, such as catering, that you do not need to worry about.
Some conference calling companies have also introduced the ‘Pay as you Go’ system which is perfect for the smaller business. In this way you can conduct your meetings when you need to and are not locked into any contracts that may be unnecessary for your needs. These more affordable conference calling rates are available on request or should be easy to locate on most companies websites.
Solutions For The Big Businesses
Big businesses will normally have more people they need to communicate with at the same time, depending on the project at hand. This can be expensive for them and the time taken to relay the same information to several different groups of people is costly and unnecessary. The much more affordable conference calling facilities that are now on offer mean that in most cases you will not have to leave the office. Information can be conveyed quickly and effectively with the simple use of the telephone or Internet.
Affordable conference calling means that large volumes of information can be quickly and easily shared with large groups of people and take the hassle of travelling from client to client out of the equation.
Source : http://www.refresharticles.com/
MS/Yahoo deal: conference call, Yahoo responds
Microsoft has been discussing the possibility of buying out Yahoo for a year and a half, the company has confirmed during a conference call discussing its proposed $44.6 billion deal. Confirming longstanding rumors, company PSD president Kevin Johnson says that Microsoft has been in an "off and on" discussion with Yahoo for 18 months. The search engine giant simply said roughly a year ago that it was not a good time to discuss an acquisition, Microsoft claims. The latter says it continues to believe a deal would be important to boosting the importance of search and expanding social platforms. Search is not just about "ten blue links" anymore, Johnson explains. Notably, Microsoft has recently invested in Facebook as part of these efforts.
However, the call also made apparent Microsoft's predominant concern in the deal, which is to undermine Google's perceived control of the web ad market. Johnson stressed that advertising was "key" to commercializing web services and warned that the industry was "dominated by one player," deliberately withholding Google's name from the discussion. Acquiring Yahoo is said to provide both it and Microsoft an opportunity to scale upwards at the rate necessary for the business, particularly in server software and other areas which Microsoft has historically been successful.
Microsoft also believes there to be incidental benefits for Yahoo outside of search and advertising, such as advanced research and development for Yahoo's mobile platform as well as its video services.
Despite the Microsoft claims, Yahoo has responded with caution to the deal, according to a brief company statement. The Bay Area company appears to contradict Microsoft's assertion of long-running talks and describes the deal as "unsolicited." Yahoo has not rejected the deal out of hand but says it will determine its answer "carefully and promptly" to ensure that a takeover by Microsoft is in its best interests.
Source : http://www.electronista.com/
However, the call also made apparent Microsoft's predominant concern in the deal, which is to undermine Google's perceived control of the web ad market. Johnson stressed that advertising was "key" to commercializing web services and warned that the industry was "dominated by one player," deliberately withholding Google's name from the discussion. Acquiring Yahoo is said to provide both it and Microsoft an opportunity to scale upwards at the rate necessary for the business, particularly in server software and other areas which Microsoft has historically been successful.
Microsoft also believes there to be incidental benefits for Yahoo outside of search and advertising, such as advanced research and development for Yahoo's mobile platform as well as its video services.
Despite the Microsoft claims, Yahoo has responded with caution to the deal, according to a brief company statement. The Bay Area company appears to contradict Microsoft's assertion of long-running talks and describes the deal as "unsolicited." Yahoo has not rejected the deal out of hand but says it will determine its answer "carefully and promptly" to ensure that a takeover by Microsoft is in its best interests.
Source : http://www.electronista.com/
Monday, February 4, 2008
multi channel video conferencing over internet
A leading IP based managed video services provider, and The Whitlock Group, a systems integration firm, announced that they will be providing managed multi point conferencing services and
Glowpoint’s IP subs services to one of the largest, real estate development firms, with nearly 30,000 acres of land currently under development in Florida, South Carolina, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“The Glowpoint services add a new dimension to the solutions we provide to our customers,” said Kévin Thompson, President of The Whitlock Group. “We are looking to increase our services revenue, making the video equipment a smaller component of the solution. Most of our sales offices migrated to Glowpoint earlier this year which was the catalyst that helped educate our sales force regarding the added value Glowpoint brings to the overall video solution.”
Initially, the real estate company piloted the combined offering, which included Glowpoint’s managed video services at five locations. The successful pilot led to a formalized deal to expand to approximately 20 office locations. In addition to utilizing Glowpoint’s quality IP video services, the customer will use Glowpoint to host a multipoint conference unit as well as providing fully managed call launching services.
“The Whitlock Group represents a new breed of integration partners who understand the value of services and the residual revenue model it represents,” said Michael Brandofino, Glowpoint’s president and CEO. “In 2006, we have been focusing on trying to improve the productivity of our channel. Deals like this show we have been making some good progress. In fact, since May, approximately 40 percent of our closed deals have come through the channel, compared to less than 10 percent prior to May.”
Glowpoint offers a full range of managed video services including, IP connectivity, multi-point video conferencing services, video hosting services and endpoint management to customers around the globe by leveraging the Glowpoint network and bridges that are deployed in the U.S. and Europe. Glowpoint offers a variety of multi-point conferencing services - from fully-managed to unassisted “bridging on demand” - using Glowpoint’s own internally developed web-based scheduling tool called “Quickbridge”.
About Glowpoint
Glowpoint, Inc. (OTC: GLOW.PK) is a world-leading broadcast-quality, IP-based video managed services provider. Glowpoint offers videoconferencing, bridging, technology hosting, and IP broadcasting services to enterprises, SOHOs, broadcasters, and consumers worldwide. The Glowpoint network carries an average of more than 60,000 video calls per month worldwide. Glowpoint is headquartered in Hillside, New Jersey. To learn more about Glowpoint, visit www.glowpoint.com.
About The Whitlock Group
The Whitlock Group is a systems integration firm focused on the design, procurement, engineering, installation, and service of audiovisual, videoconferencing, video-streaming, digital signage, video-production, and broadcast solutions. As a systems integration firm, The Whitlock Group delivers complete solutions that seamlessly integrate the audio, video, display and system controls to create unique and compelling multimedia solutions.
Source : http://www.newsaboutav.com/
Glowpoint’s IP subs services to one of the largest, real estate development firms, with nearly 30,000 acres of land currently under development in Florida, South Carolina, and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“The Glowpoint services add a new dimension to the solutions we provide to our customers,” said Kévin Thompson, President of The Whitlock Group. “We are looking to increase our services revenue, making the video equipment a smaller component of the solution. Most of our sales offices migrated to Glowpoint earlier this year which was the catalyst that helped educate our sales force regarding the added value Glowpoint brings to the overall video solution.”
Initially, the real estate company piloted the combined offering, which included Glowpoint’s managed video services at five locations. The successful pilot led to a formalized deal to expand to approximately 20 office locations. In addition to utilizing Glowpoint’s quality IP video services, the customer will use Glowpoint to host a multipoint conference unit as well as providing fully managed call launching services.
“The Whitlock Group represents a new breed of integration partners who understand the value of services and the residual revenue model it represents,” said Michael Brandofino, Glowpoint’s president and CEO. “In 2006, we have been focusing on trying to improve the productivity of our channel. Deals like this show we have been making some good progress. In fact, since May, approximately 40 percent of our closed deals have come through the channel, compared to less than 10 percent prior to May.”
Glowpoint offers a full range of managed video services including, IP connectivity, multi-point video conferencing services, video hosting services and endpoint management to customers around the globe by leveraging the Glowpoint network and bridges that are deployed in the U.S. and Europe. Glowpoint offers a variety of multi-point conferencing services - from fully-managed to unassisted “bridging on demand” - using Glowpoint’s own internally developed web-based scheduling tool called “Quickbridge”.
About Glowpoint
Glowpoint, Inc. (OTC: GLOW.PK) is a world-leading broadcast-quality, IP-based video managed services provider. Glowpoint offers videoconferencing, bridging, technology hosting, and IP broadcasting services to enterprises, SOHOs, broadcasters, and consumers worldwide. The Glowpoint network carries an average of more than 60,000 video calls per month worldwide. Glowpoint is headquartered in Hillside, New Jersey. To learn more about Glowpoint, visit www.glowpoint.com.
About The Whitlock Group
The Whitlock Group is a systems integration firm focused on the design, procurement, engineering, installation, and service of audiovisual, videoconferencing, video-streaming, digital signage, video-production, and broadcast solutions. As a systems integration firm, The Whitlock Group delivers complete solutions that seamlessly integrate the audio, video, display and system controls to create unique and compelling multimedia solutions.
Source : http://www.newsaboutav.com/
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
How To Select An Ideal Web Conferencing Service
Web conferencing is here to stay. There are so many options and choices. The internet has many websites devoted to video conferencing. And companies in the conferencing business have a variety of options for customers. Web conferencing facilitates conducting live meetings over the internet.
Choosing a web conferencing service is not easy. What you need to do is first read about web conferencing and determine your individual need. Then weigh the pros and cons of different offers. Experts recommend that you undertake a comparison shopping exercise. Compare the packages on offer from leaders in the field like WebEx, PlaceWare, Microsoft Office Live Meeting, and more.
Learn about the standards set for web conferencing by XCON: Centralized Conferencing Working Group. And choose a web conference provider with care.
Tips:
• Experts recommend avoiding the “price/use” formula. Choose a flat rate for a specified number of users. The ideal choice is one that allows you to meet as often as you need over the internet without paying for time used.
• Make an informed choice and insist on VoIP. Only this allows real-time meetings with presentations and so on. Telephone based web conferences are cumbersome.
• Choose a service that has IM, file sharing, and secure storage. Think future requirements not just the present. Choose a web conferencing provider who keeps abreast with the latest innovations in technology.
• Determine the actual global reach of the web conferencing vendor. Check facts for yourself and never depend on hearsay or brochures. Does the vendor have localized operations in far away countries like India, Japan, China, and Korea and so on or is he just US based.
• Choose a web conferencing vendor who is established in the business and has great user-friendly documentations. A web conferencing vendor must have 24/7 world wide customer service as well as trouble shooting facilities.
Never sign a contract before a trial. Ask for a free trial and determine how user friendly and efficient the service is. Be sure to check the features offered: VoIP, file sharing, instant messaging, dedicated technical and customer support, online FAQs, blogs, and forum for sharing problems and finding out solutions. Experts and the Macromedia whitepaper recommend that a web conferencing solution should: fit your budget, be compatible with your office computer and internet systems, and the conferencing tools must be user friendly. An ideal web conferencing company will not just push their product but make honest efforts to determine your needs before suggesting solutions. The bottom line should be not just a sale but a long term commitment to sustained service.
Make a market survey, take recommendations and quotes from at least three providers. Check for yourself the references they give. Make a list of questions and seek answers to them. Do in depth background checks on the web conferencing online services before you sign any contracts. Before you sign or make payments ensure that the web conferencing service is truly suitable to your company’s needs.
Source : http://www.free-articles-zone.com/
Choosing a web conferencing service is not easy. What you need to do is first read about web conferencing and determine your individual need. Then weigh the pros and cons of different offers. Experts recommend that you undertake a comparison shopping exercise. Compare the packages on offer from leaders in the field like WebEx, PlaceWare, Microsoft Office Live Meeting, and more.
Learn about the standards set for web conferencing by XCON: Centralized Conferencing Working Group. And choose a web conference provider with care.
Tips:
• Experts recommend avoiding the “price/use” formula. Choose a flat rate for a specified number of users. The ideal choice is one that allows you to meet as often as you need over the internet without paying for time used.
• Make an informed choice and insist on VoIP. Only this allows real-time meetings with presentations and so on. Telephone based web conferences are cumbersome.
• Choose a service that has IM, file sharing, and secure storage. Think future requirements not just the present. Choose a web conferencing provider who keeps abreast with the latest innovations in technology.
• Determine the actual global reach of the web conferencing vendor. Check facts for yourself and never depend on hearsay or brochures. Does the vendor have localized operations in far away countries like India, Japan, China, and Korea and so on or is he just US based.
• Choose a web conferencing vendor who is established in the business and has great user-friendly documentations. A web conferencing vendor must have 24/7 world wide customer service as well as trouble shooting facilities.
Never sign a contract before a trial. Ask for a free trial and determine how user friendly and efficient the service is. Be sure to check the features offered: VoIP, file sharing, instant messaging, dedicated technical and customer support, online FAQs, blogs, and forum for sharing problems and finding out solutions. Experts and the Macromedia whitepaper recommend that a web conferencing solution should: fit your budget, be compatible with your office computer and internet systems, and the conferencing tools must be user friendly. An ideal web conferencing company will not just push their product but make honest efforts to determine your needs before suggesting solutions. The bottom line should be not just a sale but a long term commitment to sustained service.
Make a market survey, take recommendations and quotes from at least three providers. Check for yourself the references they give. Make a list of questions and seek answers to them. Do in depth background checks on the web conferencing online services before you sign any contracts. Before you sign or make payments ensure that the web conferencing service is truly suitable to your company’s needs.
Source : http://www.free-articles-zone.com/
Save Money With Web Conference Calling
We live in a consumer based economy, and big businesses are on the rise. With all of the expansions in the business world, there is money to be made. But it takes money to make money. In order to have unimaginable success in your company, you need to bring in more money than you are spending. Fortunately, other companies are over flowing with new and innovative ways to save you money within your company.
One of the largest costs a company will incur is communication and travel expense. These are unavoidable during company expansion and even during routine business for most companies. But fortunately, these types of charges can be bypassed or minimalized by using a web conference calling service.
Web conference calling makes meetings more convenient and a lot less expensive. It offers an opportunity to talk to clients in a different state or country, and show them your slideshows and other business material while having a virtual meeting online. Web conference calling is a quick and easy way to bridge communication gaps between your sister companies or even long distance clients. Let’s not forget there is no better way to convey your confidence in yourself and your business than face to face. It is the long distance hand-shake of the future. For a small company to impress a larger client, what better way than with cutting edge technology that shows you are not only serious about your business, but on the leading edge of technology.
Where To Find It
Web conference calling can be set up completely online, at your convenience. Places like SBC, ATT, and Verizon offer conference calling to companies at competitive rates. . These types of services are offered for as low as a quarter a minute! It requires no travel, virtually no prep time, and can usually be set up in minutes and is ready to go in about an hour. Web conference calling is a useful alternative to flying all over the country to meet clients in airport conference rooms, or even a clever way to have meetings between colleagues while staying in the comfort of your own home. Ultimately, Web conference calling can save your company thousands of dollars by allowing you to virtually meet, and show slideshows, calendars, and other important information without ever having to leave your computer. This is an unparalleled commodity to any company.
Source : http://www.refresharticles.com/
One of the largest costs a company will incur is communication and travel expense. These are unavoidable during company expansion and even during routine business for most companies. But fortunately, these types of charges can be bypassed or minimalized by using a web conference calling service.
Web conference calling makes meetings more convenient and a lot less expensive. It offers an opportunity to talk to clients in a different state or country, and show them your slideshows and other business material while having a virtual meeting online. Web conference calling is a quick and easy way to bridge communication gaps between your sister companies or even long distance clients. Let’s not forget there is no better way to convey your confidence in yourself and your business than face to face. It is the long distance hand-shake of the future. For a small company to impress a larger client, what better way than with cutting edge technology that shows you are not only serious about your business, but on the leading edge of technology.
Where To Find It
Web conference calling can be set up completely online, at your convenience. Places like SBC, ATT, and Verizon offer conference calling to companies at competitive rates. . These types of services are offered for as low as a quarter a minute! It requires no travel, virtually no prep time, and can usually be set up in minutes and is ready to go in about an hour. Web conference calling is a useful alternative to flying all over the country to meet clients in airport conference rooms, or even a clever way to have meetings between colleagues while staying in the comfort of your own home. Ultimately, Web conference calling can save your company thousands of dollars by allowing you to virtually meet, and show slideshows, calendars, and other important information without ever having to leave your computer. This is an unparalleled commodity to any company.
Source : http://www.refresharticles.com/
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
What Makes a Good Audio Conference Call?
When making conference calls, it's important to make sure first of all that everyone is seeing eye to eye on the technology that's going to be used.Sometimes, more traditional investors and older corporate managers may have a problem with appreciating new technology, so when using high-tech conferencing software, you may find yourself using the audio conference call features most frequently.
Remember back when teleconferencing was still new and corporate entities were still adjusting to it? You may come across that sort of psychological resistance when trying out new Web conferencing software. At any rate, your job is to make sure your audio conference call proceeds without a hitch!
A good audio conference relies foremost on the integrity of your connection. Are you and the other members of the conference all using fast connections to hook up to the Internet? Fortunately, a lot of audio conferencing software can adjust to the speed of the linkup of each individual user, so that even if the connection is relatively slow, he or she can still avoid missing out on key parts of the exchange.
The integrity of the software itself is also important. Do you have reliable, flexible software that doesn't crash or conflict with certain business-central programs? Does your software operate across a variety of platforms, and are there any restrictions on usage? In certain cases, enterprise-level conferencing software is paid for via subscription, which means you can't use your software anymore once the license you have purchased has expired. You have to renew the license, or seek another provider.
Audio conferencing isn't exactly outdated, given today's advancements in messaging technology; it still has its distinct advantages. For one thing, it's lightweight, so that a large number of people can connect to the central server via their software, without putting a strain on either the server or their computers. For another, software made purely for audio conferencing is inexpensive!
In some cases, it can actually be free! Modern chat messengers such as AIM, MSN and Yahoo allow free VoIP calls via headsets, and all you and the other person need to have is the same version of the free downloadable software. This works especially well for small groups, or one-on-one discussions. However, there are some security concerns. Free audio chat clients are generally insecure and if any important information is to be transferred online, they might get lost or hijacked along the way. For high-profile conferencing needs, purchasing professionally made enterprise-level Web-based audio conference call software is still the best option.
Source : http://www.webpronews.com/
A Professional Conference Call sold to N.Y. company
Conference calling services firm AT Conference Inc. has bought privately held A Professional Conference Call of Duluth, Ga., for an undisclosed amount.
"The acquisition of A Professional Conference Call represents AT Conference's commitment to diversifying and expanding our service offering," said David Jannetti, founder and CEO of Southampton, N.Y.-based AT Conference. "A Professional Conference Call customers will inherit access to an expanded customer support group capable of handling larger operator-assisted conference calls. In return, AT Conference customers gain access to WebTalk, a web-based portal that enables customers to directly control their own conferences using a dashboard interface."
AT Conference said the deal will help it maintain its position as one of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. It expects its revenue to jump 250 percent in 2008 compared with 2006.
Source : http://www.bizjournals.com/
"The acquisition of A Professional Conference Call represents AT Conference's commitment to diversifying and expanding our service offering," said David Jannetti, founder and CEO of Southampton, N.Y.-based AT Conference. "A Professional Conference Call customers will inherit access to an expanded customer support group capable of handling larger operator-assisted conference calls. In return, AT Conference customers gain access to WebTalk, a web-based portal that enables customers to directly control their own conferences using a dashboard interface."
AT Conference said the deal will help it maintain its position as one of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. It expects its revenue to jump 250 percent in 2008 compared with 2006.
Source : http://www.bizjournals.com/
Friday, January 11, 2008
Secured Web Conferencing - The Cost Effective Way
In due course, web conferencing has proved its worth over traditional audio or video conferencing. In those situations, where the basic meeting format is that of back and forth information flows, web conferencing is just second to face to face meeting.
However, security has always been a major concern with web conferencing. Mere SSL or AES encryption protocol cannot guarantee you complete access security though they are well known as industry standards. Corporate houses cannot ignore this viable communication media and at the same time cannot entirely depend on it for this very reason.
There are so many other problems in traditional web conferencing. The attendees who needed to deal with 3D CAD design, flash graphic design, and other similar collaborations of image based applications, had to fight hard to make the meeting effective up to the minimum level.
Another big problem with traditional web conferencing had been that the attendees had to download and install meeting client software. That is not all. The attendees needed to download Java, flash installations and others to support the client software. The whole process was tedious, time consuming and expensive (in some cases you need to pay monthly usage charges for your meeting client software).
Even after ignoring all these problems, you can not be sure that your meeting is held in a 100% secured atmosphere.
What next?
Here comes "on premise web conferencing appliances", a secured and easy to use conferencing tool for corporate communication. Just install the appliance and you are ready to start the conference - round the clock.
With these appliances you do not need to pay any monthly fee or you do not need constant IT support. To add to this there is no way that a firewall, proxy server or anti virus can block it. And thus you get a hustle free and smooth conference.
This appliance is supported by all the platforms like Mac, UNIX, Linux or Windows. To add to this, you can attend the conference using your iPhone too - thus you can stay connected even while you are on the move.
The best thing about "on premise web conferencing appliances" is that you can use your firewall to protect access security of web conferencing attendees. Alongside, with some of these appliances, you get the facility to Remotely Access your computer.
To sum up, "on premise web conferencing appliance for web meeting" provides you a simple, easy to use, cost effective and secured conferencing tool for internal and external meetings.
Source : http://ezinearticles.com/?
However, security has always been a major concern with web conferencing. Mere SSL or AES encryption protocol cannot guarantee you complete access security though they are well known as industry standards. Corporate houses cannot ignore this viable communication media and at the same time cannot entirely depend on it for this very reason.
There are so many other problems in traditional web conferencing. The attendees who needed to deal with 3D CAD design, flash graphic design, and other similar collaborations of image based applications, had to fight hard to make the meeting effective up to the minimum level.
Another big problem with traditional web conferencing had been that the attendees had to download and install meeting client software. That is not all. The attendees needed to download Java, flash installations and others to support the client software. The whole process was tedious, time consuming and expensive (in some cases you need to pay monthly usage charges for your meeting client software).
Even after ignoring all these problems, you can not be sure that your meeting is held in a 100% secured atmosphere.
What next?
Here comes "on premise web conferencing appliances", a secured and easy to use conferencing tool for corporate communication. Just install the appliance and you are ready to start the conference - round the clock.
With these appliances you do not need to pay any monthly fee or you do not need constant IT support. To add to this there is no way that a firewall, proxy server or anti virus can block it. And thus you get a hustle free and smooth conference.
This appliance is supported by all the platforms like Mac, UNIX, Linux or Windows. To add to this, you can attend the conference using your iPhone too - thus you can stay connected even while you are on the move.
The best thing about "on premise web conferencing appliances" is that you can use your firewall to protect access security of web conferencing attendees. Alongside, with some of these appliances, you get the facility to Remotely Access your computer.
To sum up, "on premise web conferencing appliance for web meeting" provides you a simple, easy to use, cost effective and secured conferencing tool for internal and external meetings.
Source : http://ezinearticles.com/?
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Conference calls: Cutting the cord
While most of us here on planet small business have been sweating fancy productivity tools such as remote e-mail and the broadband Internet, old-school conference calling has quietly undergone a revolution. New online conferencing tools are cheaper and more powerful than ever. And they can add real value to your business.
Conference calling was strictly a high-end option until the mid-1990s, when digital telephony made the mandatory human operator obsolete. Today the Internet has spawned a veritable tidal wave of new multi-user communications tools. Audio-, Web-, and video-conferencing has grown to a $3.5-billion-a-year global industry. So-called reservationless conferencing accounts for roughly 95 percent of that market, according to research by Vapps (vapps.com), a Hoboken, N.J., provider of IP-based conferencing solutions.
Traditional carriers offer reliable automated conferencing, but they face rising competition from cheaper Web-based services such as WebEx (webex.com) - which will soon be acquired by Cisco Systems (Charts, Fortune 500) - and GoToMeeting (gotomeeting.com).
Skype, the IP-based free and low-cost phone service, is offering a new Skype for Business product that builds conferencing into a full suite of communications tools. Voice-over-Internet Protocol companies such as Vonage (Charts) (vonage.com) offer multiline conferencing as part of their service. One company, Accutalk (accutalk.net), even kicks in American Airlines reward miles with its conferencing packages. (But wasn't the idea of conference calling to skip the trip in the first place?)
Do these free or low-cost conference-calling products really work? Some discount services, such as WebEx and GoTo Meeting, are easy to set up and use - assuming call participants are at least a little bit Web savvy. Others, such as Skype, demand a fairly high degree of technological literacy.
The best bet for the weekly conference call in advance of my radio show, Strange New World (snwradio.com), turned out to be Skype for Business. Once you get it set up, the calling is easy, and integration of Internet and traditional phones is smooth. That's not to say that getting there was easy. While setting up Skype, we shared a number of exchanges such as "No, the pink wire goes in the other small hole." And more than once we had to make toll calls on real phones to get our "free" Skype conference call to work.
"This is turning into a major pain in my #%$," said "Ninja" Bob Fitzgerald, "head engineer guy" (his real title) at Hothead Studios, the New York City facility that produces the program. We also had occasional sound-quality issues. But in the end, Skype works. And there's no beating the price: Calls among Skype users are free, and calls outside the Skype network cost fractions of a cent per minute.
Mogistic (mogistic.com), a six-person custom-software developer based in Allentown, Pa., uses WebEx, which has emerged as a leading supplier of online teleconference, videoconference and meeting services. Mogistic's main product, Teamtivity, is a collaborative project-management tool that companies can use to organize and track their assets on the Web. After surveying the online conferencing landscape, Mogistic chose WebEx because it integrated well with Teamtivity, which the company uses to manage its own operations.
Each session, which includes voice and graphics, costs $1 a minute with no per-person charges. Mogistic spent about $2,000 last year for roughly 2,000 minutes spread over about 30 conference calls. Managing director Lawrence Wolfe says that he saves about $7,000 in travel costs for each client he can serve by teleconference. "We have 30 clients," says Wolfe. "That's roughly $200,000 per year in savings" - about 20 percent of Mogistic's total sales. Concludes Wolfe: "We simply could not be in business without the service."
So how to find the right option for your business? Comparison-shop and bargain. "Bundle up all your usage, find out exactly what it is you use, and then you have the ammunition to go shopping," says Ira Weinstein of Wainhouse Research, a Boston-based teleconferencing advisory firm. "Then you can save yourself a ton of money."
Source : http://www.openforum.com/
Conference calling was strictly a high-end option until the mid-1990s, when digital telephony made the mandatory human operator obsolete. Today the Internet has spawned a veritable tidal wave of new multi-user communications tools. Audio-, Web-, and video-conferencing has grown to a $3.5-billion-a-year global industry. So-called reservationless conferencing accounts for roughly 95 percent of that market, according to research by Vapps (vapps.com), a Hoboken, N.J., provider of IP-based conferencing solutions.
Traditional carriers offer reliable automated conferencing, but they face rising competition from cheaper Web-based services such as WebEx (webex.com) - which will soon be acquired by Cisco Systems (Charts, Fortune 500) - and GoToMeeting (gotomeeting.com).
Skype, the IP-based free and low-cost phone service, is offering a new Skype for Business product that builds conferencing into a full suite of communications tools. Voice-over-Internet Protocol companies such as Vonage (Charts) (vonage.com) offer multiline conferencing as part of their service. One company, Accutalk (accutalk.net), even kicks in American Airlines reward miles with its conferencing packages. (But wasn't the idea of conference calling to skip the trip in the first place?)
Do these free or low-cost conference-calling products really work? Some discount services, such as WebEx and GoTo Meeting, are easy to set up and use - assuming call participants are at least a little bit Web savvy. Others, such as Skype, demand a fairly high degree of technological literacy.
The best bet for the weekly conference call in advance of my radio show, Strange New World (snwradio.com), turned out to be Skype for Business. Once you get it set up, the calling is easy, and integration of Internet and traditional phones is smooth. That's not to say that getting there was easy. While setting up Skype, we shared a number of exchanges such as "No, the pink wire goes in the other small hole." And more than once we had to make toll calls on real phones to get our "free" Skype conference call to work.
"This is turning into a major pain in my #%$," said "Ninja" Bob Fitzgerald, "head engineer guy" (his real title) at Hothead Studios, the New York City facility that produces the program. We also had occasional sound-quality issues. But in the end, Skype works. And there's no beating the price: Calls among Skype users are free, and calls outside the Skype network cost fractions of a cent per minute.
Mogistic (mogistic.com), a six-person custom-software developer based in Allentown, Pa., uses WebEx, which has emerged as a leading supplier of online teleconference, videoconference and meeting services. Mogistic's main product, Teamtivity, is a collaborative project-management tool that companies can use to organize and track their assets on the Web. After surveying the online conferencing landscape, Mogistic chose WebEx because it integrated well with Teamtivity, which the company uses to manage its own operations.
Each session, which includes voice and graphics, costs $1 a minute with no per-person charges. Mogistic spent about $2,000 last year for roughly 2,000 minutes spread over about 30 conference calls. Managing director Lawrence Wolfe says that he saves about $7,000 in travel costs for each client he can serve by teleconference. "We have 30 clients," says Wolfe. "That's roughly $200,000 per year in savings" - about 20 percent of Mogistic's total sales. Concludes Wolfe: "We simply could not be in business without the service."
So how to find the right option for your business? Comparison-shop and bargain. "Bundle up all your usage, find out exactly what it is you use, and then you have the ammunition to go shopping," says Ira Weinstein of Wainhouse Research, a Boston-based teleconferencing advisory firm. "Then you can save yourself a ton of money."
Source : http://www.openforum.com/
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Verizon To Open Nework to Outside Devices
ADAPTING TO A SHIFTING MOBILE landscape, Verizon Wireless said Tuesday that it will allow customers to connect to its network with any device or application that meets minimal technical standards starting next year.
The move comes only weeks after Google announced an alliance with a group of wireless carriers and handset manufacturers, including Sprint and T-Mobile, to create a new mobile platform that will be open to third-party developers.
During a conference call, Verizon Wireless CEO and President Lowell McAdam said the decision to open up its network was driven by a rapidly expanding universe of options for mobile consumers. "We're constantly monitoring market forces, and have seen the accelerated pace of innovation and expanding degree of customer demand for multiple business models," McAdam says.
McAdam and other Verizon executives emphasized that its "Any Apps, Any Device" initiative would not change its existing "walled garden" business model. "We believe most customers still want the full-service model that exists today," McAdam says. "This will complement, not replace, our successful full-service model."
But he acknowledged that subscribers increasingly want more choices as cell phones turn into mini-multimedia players. "What this separate and distinct model does is really tap into those customers looking for complete control of their device," McAdam says.
Through its V Cast data service, Verizon already offers subscribers a variety of content from music to video clips to mobile TV at an additional charge. But the major carriers' own media offerings compete with a growing selection of "off deck" applications provided by outside companies and developers.
The largest U.S. wireless carrier plans to unveil open access nationwide by the end of 2008. Early next year, it will publish technical standards that allow outside developers to create mobile products that will run on Verizon's CDMA-based network. Any device meeting the criteria will be approved for use, and will allow consumers to run any application they choose.
Customers will be able to activate devices either online or by calling an 800 number set up by Verizon. Otherwise, responsibility for troubleshooting problems with devices or applications will rest with device makers themselves.
Verizon intends to host a conference early next year to explain standards and receive input from the development community on how best to meet consumer needs. In seeking to attract developers to create new devices and applications for its network, Verizon will be competing with Google's planned Android platform.
Google has already begun offering cash prizes to developers who come up with applications that are included its own mobile platform. The first Android-powered phone is scheduled to come out in the latter half of 2008 from T-Mobile.
During the conference call, John Stratton, chief marketing officer for Verizon Communications, said the company's move toward open access has no bearing on whether it will join Google's Open Handset Alliance of more than 30 carriers and device makers. But he added that any devices or applications created for the Android platform would not necessarily be precluded from using them on Verizon's network.
Some mobile analysts speculated yesterday that Verizon's initiative was prompted--at least in part--by the open access rules built into the upcoming auction of 700MHz wireless spectrum. The rules are intended to increase consumer choice on devices and applications used on the new spectrum. Google and various activist groups pushed for adoption of open access rules by the Federal Communications Commission.
But McAdam denies that regulatory pressure had any influence over its decision to open up its network. "What goes on Capitol Hill or what's being discussed about potential 700MHz rules really doesn't play into this," he says. "It's really focused on meeting customers' needs."
Analysts said the move could position Verizon well to expand its offerings while maintaining its traditional closed network. "Verizon Wireless' upside is that it will sell services to users that it wouldn't have had access to in its more traditional development and distribution model," said William Ho, a wireless analyst for technology research firm Current Analysis.
But they say questions still remain about how Verizon will monetize its open access business model and what impact it will have on quality of network service. "More devices mean more network usage, which means degradation of quality," wrote Om Malik, founder of the popular GigaOm technology blog. "Will Verizon keep investing ginormous amounts of money to keep the moniker, "America's most reliable network"?
Source:http://publications.mediapost.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=Articles.showArticleHomePage&art_aid=71669
The move comes only weeks after Google announced an alliance with a group of wireless carriers and handset manufacturers, including Sprint and T-Mobile, to create a new mobile platform that will be open to third-party developers.
During a conference call, Verizon Wireless CEO and President Lowell McAdam said the decision to open up its network was driven by a rapidly expanding universe of options for mobile consumers. "We're constantly monitoring market forces, and have seen the accelerated pace of innovation and expanding degree of customer demand for multiple business models," McAdam says.
McAdam and other Verizon executives emphasized that its "Any Apps, Any Device" initiative would not change its existing "walled garden" business model. "We believe most customers still want the full-service model that exists today," McAdam says. "This will complement, not replace, our successful full-service model."
But he acknowledged that subscribers increasingly want more choices as cell phones turn into mini-multimedia players. "What this separate and distinct model does is really tap into those customers looking for complete control of their device," McAdam says.
Through its V Cast data service, Verizon already offers subscribers a variety of content from music to video clips to mobile TV at an additional charge. But the major carriers' own media offerings compete with a growing selection of "off deck" applications provided by outside companies and developers.
The largest U.S. wireless carrier plans to unveil open access nationwide by the end of 2008. Early next year, it will publish technical standards that allow outside developers to create mobile products that will run on Verizon's CDMA-based network. Any device meeting the criteria will be approved for use, and will allow consumers to run any application they choose.
Customers will be able to activate devices either online or by calling an 800 number set up by Verizon. Otherwise, responsibility for troubleshooting problems with devices or applications will rest with device makers themselves.
Verizon intends to host a conference early next year to explain standards and receive input from the development community on how best to meet consumer needs. In seeking to attract developers to create new devices and applications for its network, Verizon will be competing with Google's planned Android platform.
Google has already begun offering cash prizes to developers who come up with applications that are included its own mobile platform. The first Android-powered phone is scheduled to come out in the latter half of 2008 from T-Mobile.
During the conference call, John Stratton, chief marketing officer for Verizon Communications, said the company's move toward open access has no bearing on whether it will join Google's Open Handset Alliance of more than 30 carriers and device makers. But he added that any devices or applications created for the Android platform would not necessarily be precluded from using them on Verizon's network.
Some mobile analysts speculated yesterday that Verizon's initiative was prompted--at least in part--by the open access rules built into the upcoming auction of 700MHz wireless spectrum. The rules are intended to increase consumer choice on devices and applications used on the new spectrum. Google and various activist groups pushed for adoption of open access rules by the Federal Communications Commission.
But McAdam denies that regulatory pressure had any influence over its decision to open up its network. "What goes on Capitol Hill or what's being discussed about potential 700MHz rules really doesn't play into this," he says. "It's really focused on meeting customers' needs."
Analysts said the move could position Verizon well to expand its offerings while maintaining its traditional closed network. "Verizon Wireless' upside is that it will sell services to users that it wouldn't have had access to in its more traditional development and distribution model," said William Ho, a wireless analyst for technology research firm Current Analysis.
But they say questions still remain about how Verizon will monetize its open access business model and what impact it will have on quality of network service. "More devices mean more network usage, which means degradation of quality," wrote Om Malik, founder of the popular GigaOm technology blog. "Will Verizon keep investing ginormous amounts of money to keep the moniker, "America's most reliable network"?
Source:http://publications.mediapost.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=Articles.showArticleHomePage&art_aid=71669
Monday, December 17, 2007
Conference Call Tips: A Common Sense Guide
No matter how often you speak on conference calls, a simple reminder or look at do's and don'ts can assist you with your next conference call. These conference call tips have been proven to eliminate annoyances and help you to convey the professionalism you desire. We will take a look at some conference call mistakes and how to avoid them. 1.Never use a cell phone to join a conference call. The only exception being if you are inside a car and everyone on the call knows you will be joining from the road. 2.Make sure the phone you are using has no static or other interference. There's nothing more distracting than someone's phone emitting strange noises, detracting from the year end review. 3.If you are a work from home employee, plan on immobilizing yourself for the duration of the call. Don't wash the dishes while the boss is detailing the fiscal year finances. It can really dry up your career potential if they hear that water splashing. 4.Know your devices. If you're using a speakerphone, know what buttons to push to mute the speaker. In fact, use the mute button to eliminate the chance of your coffee spilling onto your laptop and the explicative flying from your mouth. If you're using a headset, become accustomed to it before doing your first conference call. Know how the mute button works and test it out. It's better to be prepared then telling everyone how miserable you are on the call, when you thought only your coworker would hear. 5.Know the times and agenda for each meeting before calling in to the call. This conference call tips will help you to stay focused throughout the call and not talk about something unrelated, when you believed you were involved on a different call. 6.Take notes, but try to do it on paper, not with the clacking of the laptop keys resounding in the speakerphone. If you must use your laptop, mute the microphone until you need to be heard. After all, you can't take notes while you're speaking. 7.If there are a lot of people on the conference call, introduce yourself when you speak. It can be done without much formality, but its better they know who is sharing the golden idea, before someone else slips in to take credit. There are many conference call tips that can assist you in dealing with behaviors and appearances. It is important to remember to use common sense. The best conference call tips come from knowing yourself and your own limitations. By being professional, courteous, and insightful on the conference call, the rest will just fall into place.
Source:http://mesotheliomakiller.com/articles-directory/writing/article-writing/conference-call-tips-a-common-sense-guide.html
Source:http://mesotheliomakiller.com/articles-directory/writing/article-writing/conference-call-tips-a-common-sense-guide.html
Conference Call Tips: A Common Sense Guide
No matter how often you speak on conference calls, a simple reminder or look at do's and don'ts can assist you with your next conference call. These conference call tips have been proven to eliminate annoyances and help you to convey the professionalism you desire. We will take a look at some conference call mistakes and how to avoid them. 1.Never use a cell phone to join a conference call. The only exception being if you are inside a car and everyone on the call knows you will be joining from the road. 2.Make sure the phone you are using has no static or other interference. There's nothing more distracting than someone's phone emitting strange noises, detracting from the year end review. 3.If you are a work from home employee, plan on immobilizing yourself for the duration of the call. Don't wash the dishes while the boss is detailing the fiscal year finances. It can really dry up your career potential if they hear that water splashing. 4.Know your devices. If you're using a speakerphone, know what buttons to push to mute the speaker. In fact, use the mute button to eliminate the chance of your coffee spilling onto your laptop and the explicative flying from your mouth. If you're using a headset, become accustomed to it before doing your first conference call. Know how the mute button works and test it out. It's better to be prepared then telling everyone how miserable you are on the call, when you thought only your coworker would hear. 5.Know the times and agenda for each meeting before calling in to the call. This conference call tips will help you to stay focused throughout the call and not talk about something unrelated, when you believed you were involved on a different call. 6.Take notes, but try to do it on paper, not with the clacking of the laptop keys resounding in the speakerphone. If you must use your laptop, mute the microphone until you need to be heard. After all, you can't take notes while you're speaking. 7.If there are a lot of people on the conference call, introduce yourself when you speak. It can be done without much formality, but its better they know who is sharing the golden idea, before someone else slips in to take credit. There are many conference call tips that can assist you in dealing with behaviors and appearances. It is important to remember to use common sense. The best conference call tips come from knowing yourself and your own limitations. By being professional, courteous, and insightful on the conference call, the rest will just fall into place.
Source:http://mesotheliomakiller.com/articles-directory/writing/article-writing/conference-call-tips-a-common-sense-guide.html
Source:http://mesotheliomakiller.com/articles-directory/writing/article-writing/conference-call-tips-a-common-sense-guide.html
Advantages and Disadvantages of Conference Calling
As businesses evaluate the type of conference calling that is right for them they will need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each. In this article we will evaluate and compare the three major types of conference calls including audio, web, and video conferencing.
The biggest advantage, for many companies, in choosing audio or web conferencing over video conferencing is the cost. Audio conferencing tends to be the cheapest. Virtually the only costs involved when choosing audio conferencing is the cost of a telephone and then the charge of a long distance call. Many companies already have phones with a built-in speakerphone and if not they can be purchased for as little as $100.
However there are disadvantages in choosing audio conferencing as well. The first distinct disadvantage is that businesses lose personal relations when all they hear is a colleague's voice. Jokes and remarks can be taken the wrong way or be offending when those involved can not see a caller's smile of facial expression. Another disadvantage to audio conferencing is that the quality of the call declines as additional locations are added. When several parties are involved the chance of two of them talking at the same time are great and neither of them will have their thoughts heard.
Web conferencing offers its rewards and shortcomings as well. While web conferencing can be free, it is usually in the companies best interest to choose to pay a little more to avoid annoying ads and pop ups. Web conferencing is especially useful for business calls that involve viewing digital files because these files can be sent in an instant via email to all parties involved. Documents can be viewed, analyzed and returned so they can be discussed all at once rather than waiting and communicating through mail or several phone calls. Web conferencing also allows more than one person to talk or type at once without going unheard.
Like any type of conference calling though, web conferencing also has its disadvantages. One of these down sides is that, again, it is difficult to gauge a person's seriousness or humor in a comment. There is no personality in a typed sentence. It is also difficult for those who are uncomfortable with technology to use web conferencing efficiently.
Finally the biggest advantage to video conferencing is that it offers a visual connection with the other attendees. When using video conferencing callers are able to view each other on a TV screen and hear each other through the speaker system. Associates are able to hear each other's voices, put a voice to a face, and understand each other's joke and comments. Financially, the cost of video conferencing is quite a bit higher due to the equipment that is involved. If equipment is not high quality it can also be limiting because the video feed can be jerky or delayed. Whatever type a business chooses, every type of conference call has it ups and downs.
Source:http://www.articlecircle.com/technology/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-conference-calling.html
The biggest advantage, for many companies, in choosing audio or web conferencing over video conferencing is the cost. Audio conferencing tends to be the cheapest. Virtually the only costs involved when choosing audio conferencing is the cost of a telephone and then the charge of a long distance call. Many companies already have phones with a built-in speakerphone and if not they can be purchased for as little as $100.
However there are disadvantages in choosing audio conferencing as well. The first distinct disadvantage is that businesses lose personal relations when all they hear is a colleague's voice. Jokes and remarks can be taken the wrong way or be offending when those involved can not see a caller's smile of facial expression. Another disadvantage to audio conferencing is that the quality of the call declines as additional locations are added. When several parties are involved the chance of two of them talking at the same time are great and neither of them will have their thoughts heard.
Web conferencing offers its rewards and shortcomings as well. While web conferencing can be free, it is usually in the companies best interest to choose to pay a little more to avoid annoying ads and pop ups. Web conferencing is especially useful for business calls that involve viewing digital files because these files can be sent in an instant via email to all parties involved. Documents can be viewed, analyzed and returned so they can be discussed all at once rather than waiting and communicating through mail or several phone calls. Web conferencing also allows more than one person to talk or type at once without going unheard.
Like any type of conference calling though, web conferencing also has its disadvantages. One of these down sides is that, again, it is difficult to gauge a person's seriousness or humor in a comment. There is no personality in a typed sentence. It is also difficult for those who are uncomfortable with technology to use web conferencing efficiently.
Finally the biggest advantage to video conferencing is that it offers a visual connection with the other attendees. When using video conferencing callers are able to view each other on a TV screen and hear each other through the speaker system. Associates are able to hear each other's voices, put a voice to a face, and understand each other's joke and comments. Financially, the cost of video conferencing is quite a bit higher due to the equipment that is involved. If equipment is not high quality it can also be limiting because the video feed can be jerky or delayed. Whatever type a business chooses, every type of conference call has it ups and downs.
Source:http://www.articlecircle.com/technology/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-conference-calling.html
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Multiple Conference Call Options Can Best Serve the Organization
It should be a given that communication within the enterprise is an important element. After all, one of the first things installed when opening a new office is the telephone. In the enterprise of today, planners must look at more than just this traditional communication channel to allow for a conference call to be made.
Organizations throughout the world operate as global corporations with offices, employees and customers located anywhere and everywhere. Often, the telephone can serve as a great means of communication, but in business processes today it is not necessarily the first. Instead, the corporation must be structured such that the communication channel, like a conference call can be selected to fit the communication need.
A Conference Call is especially handy when trying to conduct meetings or training sessions with dispersed employees. Organizations have found that significant costs can be cut in travel budgets by bringing together key employees on a conference call using teleconferencing platforms to conduct meetings or training sessions. With a conference call, the platform helps to facilitate team work and increased participation, without incurring travel costs.
As beneficial as a conference call can be, organizations must also rely on a video conference call to realize advanced benefits. With a video conference call, each member of the meeting can interact visually as well as audibly, and capture non-verbal communication, in addition to verbal communication while allowing participants to feel more valuable as a part of the team. In addition, a video conference call can play a key role in communicating with distant or overseas clients who desire a more hands-on relationship.
The enterprise can also take advantage of web conferencing options for their conference calls. Such a platform can deliver all of the benefits of teleconferencing, while also facilitating web interactions for live, interactive presentations. For those meeting or training participants who want a chance to review the content, it can be available online for reference or to be used again.
With so many options in communications, it can be challenging for the organization to select just one. The good news is that only selecting one will limit the organization’s ability to communicate in the method that best suits the meeting and its audience and the best method is to offer more than one option.
Take for instance the CEO who must sit it on the year-end meeting to appease board members and ensure the company is ready to release its quarterly reports. The CEO is actually vacationing in Mexico and the meeting is scheduled in the middle of his beach time. He can still adequately participate in the conference call via teleconferencing, but is likely to dislike the video conferencing option as he is sporting his latest beach wear.
While this example may be a little less likely, communicating with a client who prefers not to be on video is quite possible. Having the ability to offer this client their preferred method of communication is essential to making him or her feel comfortable – a key element to winning and maintaining his or her business.
For the most complete selection of conferencing tools available, organizations must turn to a vendor who can provide what they need and when they need it. A proven solutions provider can help to best identify those needs and the solutions to have in place to promote positive and productive communications. It is the necessary evil of the business world – and a great way to get things done.
Source:http://www.tmcnet.com/channels/conference-call/articles/15767-multiple-conference-call-options-best-serve-organization.htm
Organizations throughout the world operate as global corporations with offices, employees and customers located anywhere and everywhere. Often, the telephone can serve as a great means of communication, but in business processes today it is not necessarily the first. Instead, the corporation must be structured such that the communication channel, like a conference call can be selected to fit the communication need.
A Conference Call is especially handy when trying to conduct meetings or training sessions with dispersed employees. Organizations have found that significant costs can be cut in travel budgets by bringing together key employees on a conference call using teleconferencing platforms to conduct meetings or training sessions. With a conference call, the platform helps to facilitate team work and increased participation, without incurring travel costs.
As beneficial as a conference call can be, organizations must also rely on a video conference call to realize advanced benefits. With a video conference call, each member of the meeting can interact visually as well as audibly, and capture non-verbal communication, in addition to verbal communication while allowing participants to feel more valuable as a part of the team. In addition, a video conference call can play a key role in communicating with distant or overseas clients who desire a more hands-on relationship.
The enterprise can also take advantage of web conferencing options for their conference calls. Such a platform can deliver all of the benefits of teleconferencing, while also facilitating web interactions for live, interactive presentations. For those meeting or training participants who want a chance to review the content, it can be available online for reference or to be used again.
With so many options in communications, it can be challenging for the organization to select just one. The good news is that only selecting one will limit the organization’s ability to communicate in the method that best suits the meeting and its audience and the best method is to offer more than one option.
Take for instance the CEO who must sit it on the year-end meeting to appease board members and ensure the company is ready to release its quarterly reports. The CEO is actually vacationing in Mexico and the meeting is scheduled in the middle of his beach time. He can still adequately participate in the conference call via teleconferencing, but is likely to dislike the video conferencing option as he is sporting his latest beach wear.
While this example may be a little less likely, communicating with a client who prefers not to be on video is quite possible. Having the ability to offer this client their preferred method of communication is essential to making him or her feel comfortable – a key element to winning and maintaining his or her business.
For the most complete selection of conferencing tools available, organizations must turn to a vendor who can provide what they need and when they need it. A proven solutions provider can help to best identify those needs and the solutions to have in place to promote positive and productive communications. It is the necessary evil of the business world – and a great way to get things done.
Source:http://www.tmcnet.com/channels/conference-call/articles/15767-multiple-conference-call-options-best-serve-organization.htm
Friday, December 14, 2007
Conference Calling Services Extra Features
Choosing a conference calling service is not always simple as there are many types and options available. The type conference calling service a business chooses will need to fit their requirements and help their business to run more efficiently. The number and form of added options will also have to fit their needs bus also fit into their budget. A company should always remember that when choosing a service it should be what they need not what they desire. Conference calling features can add up and businesses don't need to break the bank when choosing them.
First, a company will need to choose which type of conference calling service is best for them. Un-moderated, pre-arrange conference is a popular option for smaller companies who do not use conferencing very often. When conferencing calling needs are low this type of service is extremely economical because it charges by the minute per participant. There is also the option of instant access conference calling which allows companies that use conferencing calling services frequently to not have to arrange the meeting in advance. When using this type of conference calling service a moderator is issued call-in numbers and room-access numbers that can be handed out and dialed in at a moment's notice. However, there are some limitations to instant access conference calling including limits set on the number of attendees. Also, there are not many add-on options available with instant access conferencing.
After choosing a type of conference calling service, businesses also have the option of adding extra features that can help enhance their conference calling needs. One of the most common add-on features is a meeting entry announcement function. When using this function, anyone who dials into the call will need to record their name prior to being admitted into the conferencing room. Once they are admitted their recorded name will play so all participant will know who is present.
Another popular add-on feature is combining voice conferencing with web conferencing, which includes not just hosting the conference call through the internet but adding a visual component. This visual component allows participants to follow along with a slide show presentation, discussion of a document or other graphic representation. This feature is especially beneficial to companies who have employees that travel often or companies that need to share data with associates across the globe.
A third add-on feature for conference calling services is the ability to record conference calls. Some services offer playback over the web which is available almost instantly after the meeting. Other services send recordings as a data file that need to be downloaded in order to play it back on a computer. Depending on your businesses needs some services can also provide a tape or CD of the recording. When choosing these extra add-on features make sure you keep in mind the budget and needs of your company. There is no need to spend money on a feature that will not be utilized regularly.
Source:http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Conference-Calling-Services-Extra-Features/92612
First, a company will need to choose which type of conference calling service is best for them. Un-moderated, pre-arrange conference is a popular option for smaller companies who do not use conferencing very often. When conferencing calling needs are low this type of service is extremely economical because it charges by the minute per participant. There is also the option of instant access conference calling which allows companies that use conferencing calling services frequently to not have to arrange the meeting in advance. When using this type of conference calling service a moderator is issued call-in numbers and room-access numbers that can be handed out and dialed in at a moment's notice. However, there are some limitations to instant access conference calling including limits set on the number of attendees. Also, there are not many add-on options available with instant access conferencing.
After choosing a type of conference calling service, businesses also have the option of adding extra features that can help enhance their conference calling needs. One of the most common add-on features is a meeting entry announcement function. When using this function, anyone who dials into the call will need to record their name prior to being admitted into the conferencing room. Once they are admitted their recorded name will play so all participant will know who is present.
Another popular add-on feature is combining voice conferencing with web conferencing, which includes not just hosting the conference call through the internet but adding a visual component. This visual component allows participants to follow along with a slide show presentation, discussion of a document or other graphic representation. This feature is especially beneficial to companies who have employees that travel often or companies that need to share data with associates across the globe.
A third add-on feature for conference calling services is the ability to record conference calls. Some services offer playback over the web which is available almost instantly after the meeting. Other services send recordings as a data file that need to be downloaded in order to play it back on a computer. Depending on your businesses needs some services can also provide a tape or CD of the recording. When choosing these extra add-on features make sure you keep in mind the budget and needs of your company. There is no need to spend money on a feature that will not be utilized regularly.
Source:http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Conference-Calling-Services-Extra-Features/92612
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Conference Call Tips: A Common Sense Guide
No matter how often you speak on conference calls, a simple reminder or look at do's and don'ts can assist you with your next conference call. These conference call tips have been proven to eliminate annoyances and help you to convey the professionalism you desire. We will take a look at some conference call mistakes and how to avoid them.
1.Never use a cell phone to join a conference call. The only exception being if you are inside a car and everyone on the call knows you will be joining from the road.
2.Make sure the phone you are using has no static or other interference. There's nothing more distracting than someone's phone emitting strange noises, detracting from the year end review.
3.If you are a work from home employee, plan on immobilizing yourself for the duration of the call. Don't wash the dishes while the boss is detailing the fiscal year finances. It can really dry up your career potential if they hear that water splashing.
4.Know your devices. If you're using a speakerphone, know what buttons to push to mute the speaker. In fact, use the mute button to eliminate the chance of your coffee spilling onto your laptop and the explicative flying from your mouth. If you're using a headset, become accustomed to it before doing your first conference call. Know how the mute button works and test it out. It's better to be prepared then telling everyone how miserable you are on the call, when you thought only your coworker would hear.
5.Know the times and agenda for each meeting before calling in to the call. This conference call tips will help you to stay focused throughout the call and not talk about something unrelated, when you believed you were involved on a different call.
6.Take notes, but try to do it on paper, not with the clacking of the laptop keys resounding in the speakerphone. If you must use your laptop, mute the microphone until you need to be heard. After all, you can't take notes while you're speaking.
7.If there are a lot of people on the conference call, introduce yourself when you speak. It can be done without much formality, but its better they know who is sharing the golden idea, before someone else slips in to take credit.
There are many conference call tips that can assist you in dealing with behaviors and appearances. It is important to remember to use common sense. The best conference call tips come from knowing yourself and your own limitations. By being professional, courteous, and insightful on the conference call, the rest will just fall into place.
Source:http://www.affordableconferencing.com/conference_call_tips.htm
1.Never use a cell phone to join a conference call. The only exception being if you are inside a car and everyone on the call knows you will be joining from the road.
2.Make sure the phone you are using has no static or other interference. There's nothing more distracting than someone's phone emitting strange noises, detracting from the year end review.
3.If you are a work from home employee, plan on immobilizing yourself for the duration of the call. Don't wash the dishes while the boss is detailing the fiscal year finances. It can really dry up your career potential if they hear that water splashing.
4.Know your devices. If you're using a speakerphone, know what buttons to push to mute the speaker. In fact, use the mute button to eliminate the chance of your coffee spilling onto your laptop and the explicative flying from your mouth. If you're using a headset, become accustomed to it before doing your first conference call. Know how the mute button works and test it out. It's better to be prepared then telling everyone how miserable you are on the call, when you thought only your coworker would hear.
5.Know the times and agenda for each meeting before calling in to the call. This conference call tips will help you to stay focused throughout the call and not talk about something unrelated, when you believed you were involved on a different call.
6.Take notes, but try to do it on paper, not with the clacking of the laptop keys resounding in the speakerphone. If you must use your laptop, mute the microphone until you need to be heard. After all, you can't take notes while you're speaking.
7.If there are a lot of people on the conference call, introduce yourself when you speak. It can be done without much formality, but its better they know who is sharing the golden idea, before someone else slips in to take credit.
There are many conference call tips that can assist you in dealing with behaviors and appearances. It is important to remember to use common sense. The best conference call tips come from knowing yourself and your own limitations. By being professional, courteous, and insightful on the conference call, the rest will just fall into place.
Source:http://www.affordableconferencing.com/conference_call_tips.htm
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
NoiseFree VoIP Enterprise Package Provides Significant Cost Discounts for Volume IT and Mobile Professional Teams
Noise Free, a leading provider of next generation software to enhance voice communications, announced today that it has created a new corporate pricing plan for its newly released noise free VoIP (call quality management software). The new noise free VoIP Enterprise plan gives large volume users a cost effective means to provide mobile personnel with call quality assurance solutions regardless of employee location and is offered in response to ever-growing requests from corporate customers.
"NoiseFree VoIP has proven to be a very effective tool for our company," said Bob Scarborough, President of Tensoft, (a multi-national software company serving semiconductor, software, and technology companies all over the world). "We make a lot of VoIP calls to a large division in India as well as customers and suppliers throughout Asia. Telecommunications is a critical component of customer satisfaction so we are using VoIP extensively. NoiseFree VoIP installed in our PCs and laptops has improved our call quality by removing background noise at both ends of our two party calls and our conference calls and we are very pleased with the results."
NoiseFree VoIP Enterprise is and easy-to-implement way to improve the quality of service for VoIP personal calls and VoIP conference calls. NoiseFree VoIP was launched as a beta version in October and the GA version was released in November and is available for individual download and purchase at the Noise Free Already more than three thousand users have downloaded the software application and Enterprise IT management is beginning to recognize the benefit of providing noise cancellation and the ability to boost voice signals for all VoIP based call services.
Since VoIP has no native noise cancellation or noise cancellation standard, NoiseFree VoIP provides a significant reduction in background noise which often hinders a VoIP call. Customers have marveled at the way in which the software reduces or eliminates such disturbances as PC/server fan noise, traffic and automobile noise, and many other types of noise that were prevalent in their VoIP calls from both home and office.
NoiseFree VoIP utilizes patented technology to deliver unrivaled transmit signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) enhancement in excess of 15dB, ensuring that callers can be heard clearly regardless of background noise environments including airport traffic, street noise and sirens, loud crowds, and even espresso machines. Noise in excess of 80dB is reduced or eliminated with the software. 80-85dB noise levels are prevalent in very loud restaurants where even a face to face conversation is difficult and around operating machinery such as tractors, airplanes, among others. For best results, both callers should install NoiseFree VoIP in their computers.
Noise Free VoIP Features-- Patent pending noise cancellation technology that detects and suppresses background noise to enhance user speech clarity -- Speech intelligibility enhancement -- Advanced Voice Activity Detection -- User-friendly installation -- Readily available through download -- Low power consumption -- Wide band codec
NoiseFree VoIP supports a wide variety of VoIP Software and Services Yahoo Messenger(TM), Google Talk(TM) and Soft Phones. It has been tested and is compatible with Windows(TM) XP and Vista (32 bit).
Source:http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,239914.shtml
"NoiseFree VoIP has proven to be a very effective tool for our company," said Bob Scarborough, President of Tensoft, (a multi-national software company serving semiconductor, software, and technology companies all over the world). "We make a lot of VoIP calls to a large division in India as well as customers and suppliers throughout Asia. Telecommunications is a critical component of customer satisfaction so we are using VoIP extensively. NoiseFree VoIP installed in our PCs and laptops has improved our call quality by removing background noise at both ends of our two party calls and our conference calls and we are very pleased with the results."
NoiseFree VoIP Enterprise is and easy-to-implement way to improve the quality of service for VoIP personal calls and VoIP conference calls. NoiseFree VoIP was launched as a beta version in October and the GA version was released in November and is available for individual download and purchase at the Noise Free Already more than three thousand users have downloaded the software application and Enterprise IT management is beginning to recognize the benefit of providing noise cancellation and the ability to boost voice signals for all VoIP based call services.
Since VoIP has no native noise cancellation or noise cancellation standard, NoiseFree VoIP provides a significant reduction in background noise which often hinders a VoIP call. Customers have marveled at the way in which the software reduces or eliminates such disturbances as PC/server fan noise, traffic and automobile noise, and many other types of noise that were prevalent in their VoIP calls from both home and office.
NoiseFree VoIP utilizes patented technology to deliver unrivaled transmit signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) enhancement in excess of 15dB, ensuring that callers can be heard clearly regardless of background noise environments including airport traffic, street noise and sirens, loud crowds, and even espresso machines. Noise in excess of 80dB is reduced or eliminated with the software. 80-85dB noise levels are prevalent in very loud restaurants where even a face to face conversation is difficult and around operating machinery such as tractors, airplanes, among others. For best results, both callers should install NoiseFree VoIP in their computers.
Noise Free VoIP Features-- Patent pending noise cancellation technology that detects and suppresses background noise to enhance user speech clarity -- Speech intelligibility enhancement -- Advanced Voice Activity Detection -- User-friendly installation -- Readily available through download -- Low power consumption -- Wide band codec
NoiseFree VoIP supports a wide variety of VoIP Software and Services Yahoo Messenger(TM), Google Talk(TM) and Soft Phones. It has been tested and is compatible with Windows(TM) XP and Vista (32 bit).
Source:http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,239914.shtml
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
