| |
|
Before we go deeper into IP conferencing, let's see how internet technology works...
In techno-lingo, pieces of messages that are transmitted over the internet are called packets. The pieces are often sent via a variety of routes before they reach their destination where they are reassembled into their original format; these information packets are often referred to as datagrams.
Internet protocol (IP) specifies the format of these packets and their addressing scheme. By itself, Internet protocol is analogous to a postal system – it gives you a drop off point for a particular package but does not provide a direct link between you and the receiver.
When combined with Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), a connection between two hosts is formed and then messages can be sent back and forth between parties.
IP conferencing is real time multimedia audio, video and data communication conducted over IP networks. There are several different types such as:
- IP Point to Point Conferencing: this is basically real time communication between one point and another
- IP Multipoint Conferencing: This is when three or more endpoints communicate with each other simultaneously over an IP connection
- IP Voice Conferencing: This is a method of interactive voice-only communication between two parties
- IP Video Conferencing: Is when two or more users communicate in real time with audio and visual enhancement
- IP Data Collaboration: Allows conference participants to mutually view files and/or applications from different locations
- IP Data Sharing: The ability for multiple users to share open applications on programs that run on another participant’s computer
There are hundreds of companies dedicated to providing one or more of the above noted services at various prices. Technology is ever expanding in the IP telephony conference business, thus, depending on the particular provider’s media server architecture, varying levels of quality and quantities of conferencing services can be obtained for a fixed price.
Bandwidth efficiency is also a determining factor with competing suppliers striving to provide their clients with unlimited availability between infinite numbers of participants.
When a computer’s software and hardware perform functions that were traditionally undertaken by telephone equipment, like computerized answering systems and voice mail, it is referred to as telephony. IP teleconferencing is a sophisticated method of virtual, real time communication between computers located in various geographical locations.
What are the Advantages of IP Conferencing?
Any business, big or small, can utilize the many benefits of IP communication. Shared communication via audio, visual and data files between interested parties located in areas miles (or even countries) apart allows a freedom previously unheard of in business operations. The money saved in travel and accommodation expenses alone can often be astronomical.
The Cons of IP Conferencing
Face to face meetings offer participants the opportunity to develop a more personal rapport between each other. While IP conferencing plays an important role in day to day communications, the subtle nuances of eye contact and body language cannot be readily transmitted in a virtual setting. This can sometimes lead to a breakdown in communications or a misinterpretation of policy or procedure.
Some of the Companies that are working diligently to make IP and/or teleconferencing the must-have tool for any innovative business operation are:
http://www.3com.com/voip/ip-conferencing-module.html
http://www.acttel.com/voip.asp
http://www.cisco.com
Next Conference Service: Conference Call and Benefits Of Main Calling Services
Back from IP Conferencing to Conferencing Solutions
Back from IP Conferencing to AllConferenceServices.com - Home
|
|
