Webcam Conferencing: the New Wave in Inexpensive Online Meetings

Tired of flying to meetings because email and phone calls weren’t enough? Some of those meetings still need you there, but many can be replaced by webcam conferencing. Time to give webcam conferencing a try.

Some webcams are still pretty spendy (well over $200) but you can find a lot of good-quality webcams priced from $28-$80. I like the Logitech models and have found them to be easy to use for a good price.

The link in this article’s resource box will show you several webcams to consider. Whatever you decide on, make sure it’s a USB-based webcam. Your installation will be easy — plug in, run a quick installation, and off you go!

Personal Use:

Now, how to get started? The best starting point is with free instant messaging software. If you’re a member of AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, or Windows Live Messenger you already have video integration available. Get one of your friends to practice with you until you’re comfortable with your webcam. It’ll be fun.

Business Use:

Of course, if you’re planning to use webcam conferencing for business meetings, you obviously won’t be holding those over instant messaging. Most webinar vendors (Webex, NetMeeting, etc) support video streaming.

You’ll definitely want to practice the integration with your web conference software. Figure out how to turn the video streaming on and off, how to adjust the resolution and speed, just for starters. By the way, if you don’t already have a web conference vendor there’s a great 14-day free trial available to let you practice. See this article’s resource box for a link.

Tips:

You’ll want to speak a tinch more slowly than normal. This is actually a recommendation for all presenters, but is even more relevent in webcam conferencing.

In case you didn’t notice in the earlier paragraphs, I recommend you practice a little. Give yourself 15 minutes to learn the features of your particular webcam. Some will even enhance the image (want less wrinkles?) if you like. Regardless, you’ll want to understand what you’ve bought.

That’s it! You’re ready to join the webcam conferencing world.

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