Does the thought of planning a conference make you cringe? Trying to organize multiple schedules, securing a location, making traveling arrangements, and the money involved is enough to make anyone dread setting up a conference. But there are easier ways to connect with people.

Even though it sounds too good to be true, web conferencing is becoming the preferred way to conduct a conference or meeting. It is easy to set up and can be more conducive to working with other people located all across the world.

There are a few different web conferencing tools available for use and they all have different features. The key to finding a compatible system is to really think about the types of things you want to be able to do during your meeting or conference. Are you going to need to upload any type of visual presentation with sound?

Most meetings will require some literature or agenda, so your participants need to be able to access those materials quickly and easily. Also keep in mind that not all participants will be using the same computer you are, so be sure to pick a system that will be compatible with either a Windows platform or MAC.

When selecting a web conferencing tool, there are two basic categories. The first one is freeware, which means that the software packages can easily be found on the Internet and you will not have to pay a charge for it. Once you locate the freeware, you simply download the application onto your computer.

It should come with instructions to operate all the functions, but because it was free, there will not be very many options. The freeware will have only the basic functions. So if you have meetings only a few times and only need to converse with people, this is the way to go.

If you are looking for something with more complex features, you will be better off purchasing a web conferencing package from a reputable company. Some of the fancier features will allow you to incorporate visual presentations, allow file sharing between participants, project tracking, and even have white board capabilities. Most of these packages should be able to handle anywhere from ten to fifteen participants at one time.

To save yourself and your company time and money, consider switching to a web conferencing system. You might find that it will boost your productivity and get you a better bottom line.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Bowman