The hybrid or remote working mode has changed several aspects in companies, among them, the use of video conference device as an essential tool to improve collaboration and communication between work teams. This is why knowing how to choose the best video conferencing device is very important to ensure that the online meetings (whether in the office itself or remotely) are as efficient and effective possible.
Here we tell you the main characteristics of each video conferencing system and the most important thing to take into account to choose the one that best suits your company.
Audio and video quality: Make sure that the device has good audio and video quality so that conversations are clear and without interruptions.
Compatibility: Make sure that the device is compatible with the video conferencing platforms that your company uses frequently, such as Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, among others.
Easy to use: The device should be easy to set up and use, so employees don't spend time learning how to use it.
Additional functions: Some devices have additional features such as screen sharing, meeting recording, and the ability to connect to multiple microphones or cameras.
Cost: Cost is an important consideration, but you don't always need to spend a lot of money to get a high-quality device.
Size and portability: Consider the size of the device and whether it needs to be portable so employees can use it in different locations.
Technical support: Make sure the device comes with technical support, so you can get help if you have problems.
1. What equipment is needed to develop a videoconference?
For the most part, the video conference device It is made up of software, that is, an application, and hardware, made up of speakers, a camera, a control system, etc. In addition, it is extremely important to have a good internet connection, and the following equipment:
Video conferencing device: This can be a computer, a tablet or a mobile phone, which has a webcam, a microphone and speakers or headphones to be able to participate in the meeting.
Internet connection: A high-speed internet connection is required for smooth, uninterrupted video conferencing.
Video conferencing platform: You should choose a video conferencing platform, such as Google Meet, Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams, among others, that it is compatible with the device that will be used for the videoconference.
additional hardware: if better video or audio quality is required, additional equipment can be used, such as external microphones, high-quality webcams, and speakers.
Meeting Management Software: Some video conferencing platforms also have tools to manage meetings, such as screen sharing, digital whiteboarding, meeting recording, among others.
2. Keys to choose the best video conferencing software
In order to have productive meetings, we must take into account several aspects, including choosing good video conferencing software, choosing good hardware, and taking into account what the meeting room will be like and the number of people who will be there.
As for the software, It is important:
- choose one that is Easy to use and has specific functionalities that improve the meeting experience such as screen sharing, meeting recording, chat, emoji reactions, etc.
- have security measures demanding to protect information and users from possible cyber attacks.
- To be compatible with other programs that you use in your company (such as Google Workspace Pricing either microsoft-office).
- Keep in mind the costs and that fit your company's budget. Each provider of these services has specific plans for every need, with more or less functionalities.
2.1. Purposes for which the videoconference will be implemented
As far as possible it is important to know in advance what use we will give to our videoconference system. With this information it will be more feasible to find the best video conferencing device for your company. Among the most common uses may be the integration of work teams, greater communication and collaboration, job interviews, training, etc.
2.2. Technical support
have a authorized and personalized technical support is key to any video conference device. Support for a video conferencing software is crucial as it ensures that the video conferencing experience is as seamless and effective as possible. Video conferencing software providers must offer fast and reliable technical support to help users solve technical problems and maximize productivity.
23. Quality and quantity of participants in each meeting
According to amount of participants who regularly join each meeting, it will be the choice of plan that you consider since the providers of the video conferencing systems They offer packages that vary depending on the number of users who have access to the platform and how many can join the meeting simultaneously.
In addition, it will be necessary to take into account the camera and speaker quality, and that these are appropriate for the type of meeting room and the number of attendees. In this sense there are video conferencing hardware kits of different sizes, small, medium or large, which cover the needs of each room.
2.4. Supplementary tools available
To improve the video conferencing experience, service provider companies offer more and more tools. Among the most used are:
- Share screen: this feature allows a participant to share their screen with others in the meeting. It is useful for presentations and demonstrations.
- Meeting recording: This feature allows you to record the meeting for later review or sharing with those who were unable to attend.
- Virtual meeting rooms: this feature allows participants to break into smaller groups to discuss specific topics during the meeting.
- Surveys and questionnaires: Some video conferencing platforms offer survey and quiz tools to get instant feedback from participants during the meeting.
- Integration with other productivity tools: Some video conferencing platforms integrate with other productivity tools such as calendars, tasks, and cloud storage, making it easy for team collaboration and productivity.
- Video Filters: this feature allows participants to use video effects and filters to enhance the appearance of their video during the meeting.
2.5. Alternatives to Google Meet Hardware
If we talk about one video conferencing solution specific, Google Meet Hardware is he Google video conferencing system, made up of the app of Hangout Meets and Videoconferencing Hardware. It is composed of the Google Chromebox, a small box-shaped computer, very powerful, that can be connected to any monitor becoming a device, the speaker with noise cancellation, the high-definition camera that must be adapted to the size of the meeting room, and the Google Hangouts Meet Hardware control mechanisms.
As an alternative to the Google service this Microsoft Teams another of the most used videoconference systems. It is another application created by Microsoft for hybrid work that allows collaboration between teams, so that they are informed, organized and connected, all in one place. Like its competitor, Google Meet, it offers to use applications such as chat, calendar, etc.
zoom It is another video conferencing software alternative that has become very popular during the pandemic for having virtual meetings or online classes, due to its user-friendly interface. Then the number of users using this platform decreased, although it offers several features and is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. At the moment Zoom and Google Meet integrated to improve accessibility and the experience in video calls on both platforms.
