Video conferencing
Video conferencing is a technology that has revolutionized the way businesses, educational institutions, and individuals communicate. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, video conferencing has been the go-to option for virtual calls and meetings.
Defining video conferencing
Video conferencing allows individuals or groups to meet and collaborate in real-time, regardless of their geographical locations. It uses audio and video telecommunications to bring people at different sites together for a meeting. This can be a simple one-on-one conversation or a group meeting involving participants from multiple locations.
Video conferencing technology uses device cameras, microphones, speakers, and screens to send and receive audio-visual data. Conferencing software and network infrastructure also make video communication possible.
History of video conferencing
Video conferencing technology first became commercially available in the 1980s. Initially, video conferencing systems were expensive and complex, and their use was limited to large corporations and government agencies.
Over the years, advancements in technology led to the development of affordable and user-friendly video conferencing solutions. Today, video conferencing is widely used in various sectors, including business, education, healthcare, and more.
Benefits of video conferencing
Improved communication
Video conferencing enhances communication with face-to-face interaction, which is more engaging and personal than audio-only calls. It allows participants to see each other's facial expressions and body language, leading to better understanding and collaboration.
Moreover, video conferencing supports real-time sharing of visual aids such as presentations, diagrams, and videos, further improving the communication process.
Cost and time savings
Video conferencing eliminates the need for travel, resulting in significant cost and time savings. Businesses can conduct meetings, interviews, and training sessions without the participants having to leave their locations. This allows for flexible working arrangements, such as remote work and telecommuting, which can lead to increased employee satisfaction and retention.
How video conferencing works
Most video conferencing programs offer many functions for their users. Meeting hosts can start and end calls, control the cameras, and manage the participants. However, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes as well. Understanding how video conferencing technology works can help you make the most of it. Here’s a brief explanation of the process.
Data capture
The first step in the video conferencing process is data capture. This involves using cameras and microphones to record video and audio data from the participants. The data is then converted into a digital format for transmission.
The quality of the captured data depends on various factors, including the quality of the cameras and microphones, the lighting conditions, and the participants' proximity to the devices.
Data transmission
Once the data is captured and digitized, it’s transmitted over a network to the other participants. This can be done over the internet or a private network, depending on the video conferencing setup.
The actual transmission process involves compressing the data to reduce its size and then sending it in packets. The receiving end then decompresses the data and reconstructs it to be displayed.
Data display
The final step in video conferencing is data display. This involves showing the received data on a screen and relaying the received audio so that the meeting participants can see and hear each other. The quality of the sound and picture can depend on the condition of the device’s screen, speakers, and internet connection as well.
Choosing a video conferencing solution
There are many video conferencing solutions available today, each with great features and capabilities. When choosing a video conferencing app, it's important to consider factors such as ease of use, quality of audio and video, compatibility with devices and platforms, scalability, and cost.
Some popular video conferencing platforms include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Cisco Webex. These programs all offer a range of features, including high-definition video and audio, screen sharing, recording, and more.
Pro tip: Get global attendance for your event — live stream a conference to reach a larger audience and engage with them in real-time.