Web conferencing solutions

Web conferencing solution introduction
Web Conferencing Buyer's Guide

Imagine being able to hold meetings with people around the world at a moment's notice without having to leave your office. A web conferencing solution provides a central online meeting place for people to get together for meetings regardless of location. With a simple click of the mouse, you can present PowerPoint slides, run a software demonstration, or even hold brainstorming sessions using a whiteboard.
Table of Contents

* Introduction
* Web meetings basics
* Web based conferencing features
* Other features
* Software options
* Choosing a solution
* Web conference pricing
* Online conferencing tips
* Find a dealer

Businesses can use a web conferencing solution for a variety of purposes:

* Marketing meetings - product announcements, brainstorming sessions
* Sales presentations - demonstrations, new product releases
* Training and human resources - employee orientation, customer training
* Financial and investor relations - shareholder meetings, briefs
* Creative presentations - weddings, fashion shows, live surgery

Probably the greatest downside to a web conferencing solution is the lack of face-to-face interaction and the relationship building it brings. Collaborative applications like interactive polls and Q&A sessions help bridge the gap, but the fact remains that the interaction is all virtual.

On the other hand, a web conferencing solution helps slash the hefty travel and time costs associated with face-to-face meetings. Microsoft icon Bill Gates recently remarked that web conferencing stands to save his company over $40 million in travel costs alone in 2005. Although they may not be as large, other budget-conscious companies could certainly cut travel expenses using web conferencing.