Since the past few years, more and more people have been working from home. For this, companies often had to buy an online video conferencing system, so its employees can collaborate remotely. Since there is so much choice, it can be difficult to choose the right system for your business! Online video conferencing systems differ in price, but they also have different features. Some programs have a limit on the number of participants, and others offer better customer support. Here are a few important factors you should consider when choosing an online video conferencing system for your business.
Type of meetings
Figure out for what type of conference calls you need an online video conferencing system. Are you going to use it mostly for one-on-one calls or group calls? This is because some online video conferencing systems can only let a maximum of people join your meeting. So, if you’re planning on having large group conferencing calls, you need to look into a video conferencing system that supports this.
Usability of the system
Some conference calling programs are easier to use than others. Take into account that everyone within your business should be able to use the system, but also people from outside the company. Look for a system that is not too hard to use. If sometimes people from outside your company will join your video conference, it can be better to use an online system that doesn’t require any downloads.
Also, if you are going to have multiple video conferences with the same people, it can be useful if the online video conferencing system works with reusable links. This means you can use one link for all these meetings. This saves you time during the set-up.
Another important matter is the customer support of an online conferencing system. In case the program doesn’t work, it can be helpful if the system has a good customer support. But if you have a good IT team within in your company, this might be unnecessary.
Security settings
Conference calls can be about anything, but of course confidential information should stay confidential. The security system of every online video conferencing program is different. Sometimes participants can easily join with only a link, while other systems require an extra security code, or you have to grant access. Especially when people outside your team are able to join your conference calls, it is a good idea to search for a program with a good security system in place. This way, you prevent uninvited guests from joining your video conference.
Extra features
Find out more about the extra features that comes with the video conferencing platform. Maybe it’s important for your business that participants can ask questions in a live chat during your conference call. With a live chat, you can have someone else respond to the questions, so you’re not disrupted while presenting.
If presentations and documents are a big part of your video conferences, you will need an online video conferencing system that has an option for screen sharing. Also, if you want your team to be able to view the conferencing call back later or again, the system should have an option for recording. Check if the different online conferencing systems have these features and how easy they are to use.
Price-quality ratio
After taking all these factors into account, it is important to check the prices. Some systems are free of charge, but you have to pay extra to be able to use special or advanced features. That’s why it is important to look for a good price-quality ratio which suits the needs of your business. Maybe that even means you need to expand your budget a bit. If the online video conferencing system is exactly what you’re looking for, it will be worth it! Even when you’re a little over budget - you will earn back the investment.
Now you’re all set to choose the best online video conferencing system for your business. Figure out what type of conferencing calls you need for the system and what features cannot be missed. Lastly, choose the video conferencing system with the best price-quality ratio that suits your business’ needs. An online video conferencing system will be a good investment if you make an informed decision!
