While conferencing through the use of the web or the telephone will probably be done through equipment you already have, video conferencing will require the purchase of some additional products. Some companies will need a specialized dual screen display which will allow you to see the other side of the conference on one screen and any charts or reports on the other. If you do not need a dual screen, you may be able to use computer screens already in your conference room, but often a display will need to be purchased to accommodate the demands of video conferencing. A system will also have to be purchased that has been designed with the components necessary for video conferencing. This system should include all of the audio and video components needed as well as any wiring that will be necessary to connect component to the display screen.

This may sound like a hefty investment, but in the long run, it will still save you thousands over travel expenses when sending one or more associates to attend conferences out of state. With today's gas prices, it may also save money over sending associates to conferences in state. The components and displays necessary will be a sizable investment, yet your company can hardly afford to do without. This allows you to communicate with other companies anywhere in the world without having to leave your office.

Once you have all the necessary components for the video conference, you will need to find a video conferencing service to provide you the connection between yourself and the business you're interested in conferencing with. Once you've done your homework and found the service that will provide you what you need at the most efficient price, you can begin to plan the conference. Again, you'll need to choose a time in which you all parties are free and available for a certain block of time. You'll also need to prepare any presentations and visual aids in advance. Once those have been prepared, you can set up the actual service with the service provider. They will provide you with the connection needed and any assistance from an operator while the call is taking place.

The video conferencing services will allow your connection to be made and allow your conference to take place. Pricing is typically done through a monthly charge based on how many participants will be included. Dependent on how many will participate in the conference will decide whether your monthly fee is close to $50 a month or up to $500 a month when you have up to 100 people involved in the conference.

A video conference will give more of a feeling of being directly in the conference as if you're all in the same room. Presentations can be given flawlessly and charts and other visual aids can be included with no miscommunication. The one time investment in the tools necessary for this type of conference is well worth the investment as business can be done easily and quickly through this advanced technology.