Blog N° 4
Deepening video conferencing
Video Conferencing Definition
Video conferencing is live, visual connection between two or more remote parties over the internet that simulates a face-to-face meeting. Video conferencing is important because it joins people who would not normally be able to form a face-to-face connection.
At its simplest, video conferencing provides transmission of static images and text between two locations. At its most sophisticated, it provides transmission of full-motion video images and high-quality audio between multiple locations.
They use a computer connection, audio, and video to connect. Video conferencing can be used for team meetings, webinars, product demos, job interviews, and more.
For a successful video conference, you need a few tools.
What Equipment Is Needed for Video Conferencing?
In the business world, desktop video conferencing is a core component of unified communications (UC) applications and web conferencing services, while cloud-based virtual meeting room services enable organizations to deploy video conferencing with minimal infrastructure investment.
Since videoconferencing technology includes audio and visual elements, there are certain AV components that are often involved:
What Does AV Stand For?
AV is an abbreviation for audio-video. AV technology refers to systems and devices used to watch and listen to media. You'll find this technology in home entertainment systems and in the business world, such as in conference rooms.
How video conferencing works
The video conferencing process can be split into two steps: compression and transfer.
During compression, the webcam and microphone capture analog audiovisual (AV) input. The data collected is in the form of continuous waves of frequencies and amplitudes. These represent the captured sounds, colors, brightness, depth and shades. In order for this data to be transferred over a normal network -- instead of requiring a network with massive bandwidth -- codecs must be used to compress the data into digital packets. This enables the captured AV input to travel faster over broadband or Wi-Fi internet.
During the transfer phase, the digitally compressed data is sent over the digital network to the receiving computer. Once it reaches the endpoint, the codecs decompress the data. The codecs convert it back into analog audio and video. This enables the receiving screen and speakers to correctly view and hear the AV data.
Components of video conferencing systems
The components of a video conferencing system include the following:
A network for data transfer. This is usually a high-speed broadband internet connection, which uses similar technology as voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Local area network (LAN) and Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) connections are occasionally used as well.
Two or more video cameras or webcams that provide video input.
Two or more microphones -- either an external microphone or one built into the accessing device.
A computer screen, monitor, TV or projector that can broadcast video output.
Headphones, laptop speakers or external speakers that can be used for audio output.
Hardware- or software-based coding and decoding technology, called codecs. These can compress AV data into digital packets on the distributing end and then decompress the data at the endpoint. Codecs reduce the amount of bandwidth needed.
Acoustic echo cancellation (AEC) software, which reduces audio delays and supports real-time communication.
Types of videoconferencing systems
Depending on your needs, there are different types of videoconferencing systems to choose from.
Telepresence videoconferencing system: Multiple screens or monitors are used to make everyone feel like they are attending the meeting in person.
Desktop videoconferencing system: All the conferencing hardware and software is built into a computer or laptop.
In-room videoconferencing: The videoconferencing technology is integrated in the room itself.
This system could be a good solution for distance dance workshops where not individuals are connected but dance centres with equipped rooms. This type of video conferencing requires not only a system of multiple video cameras but also a director to manage them.
Such a system has not been tested so far, at least according to my research, so it was not possible to verify the economic benefit.
Benefits of video conferencing
Video conferencing services carry many benefits. In businesses, they can increase productivity among employees, as well as provide an improved way of communicating and interacting with colleagues, partners and customers.
For businesses, the tangible benefits of video conferencing include lower travel costs -- especially for employee training -- and shortened project times as a result of improved communications among team members.
The intangible benefits of video conferencing include more efficient meetings with the exchange of nonverbal communications and a stronger sense of community among business contacts, both within and between companies, as well as with customers. On a personal level, the face-to-face connection adds nonverbal communication to the exchange and enables participants to develop a stronger sense of familiarity with individuals they may never actually meet in person.
Disadvantages of video conferencing
While video conferencing provides numerous benefits for businesses and individuals, it also has several disadvantages. For example, video calling and conferencing demands a consistent high-speed internet connection. Only a strong internet connection can guarantee that the voice audio and visuals will be reliably and smoothly communicated. Any issues with bandwidth or internet connectivity could cause the audio and visual displays to be interrupted or lost, so quality of service (QoS) measures may be potentially required for important calls.
Video calling also still experiences severe audio latency, even with fast internet connections. Conferences that experience audio latency might become frustrating or strained, whereas an in-person meeting would have avoided this obstruction.
Another disadvantage is the steep cost of high-quality video conferencing systems. While many companies adopt video conferencing services as a way to reduce business travel costs, they will still end up spending large amounts of money on a video conferencing system. In addition to all the costly equipment and technology, companies will often also need to pay for the installation, deployment and maintenance of the system.
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