The Rise of Video Conferencing

Althea Nicole Thompson
Nov 4 · 4 min read
Video Conferencing
Video Conferencing
Image Credit: Flickr

Back in the old days, communication wasn’t as accessible and convenient as it is now. It started out in forms of written letters sealed in an envelope. This communication system took weeks, even months to reach the intended receiver.

This progressed to the birth of telephone calls and text messages. Highlighting the importance of urgency. These made transactions smoother and transmission of information better for everyone. These are able to connect people miles and miles apart from each other. Beating distance and breaking the limits of communication.

But, it still doesn’t amount to the level of intimacy made possible by today’s ‘video conferencing’.

A video conference is a visual communication between people in different locations. This exchange happens in real-time. Today, you can easily find consumer services offered by online vendors that cater to your video conferencing needs.

A video conference is far more advanced than previous modes of communication. This is made possible by its ability to transmit visual images. Allowing for non-verbal communication between people separated by distance.

Changing the Game in the Business Realm

This medium changed the idea of communication. Making today the best time for businesses to flourish. Allowing for an improved exchange in the world of business.

The Origin of Video Conferencing

video phones
video phones

It all began in 1927 when a company called AT&T Bell Labs and John Logie Baird experimented with video phones. It then progressed when Germany started doing related experiments. Paving the way for video technology over phone lines which allows image phones to send still photos.

Together with its Picturephone service in the early 1970s, AT&T started to use video conferencing to continue what they started. During the computer revolution in the 1980s, it was brought to popularity. It was a time when people were obsessed with mobile phones. Because of this, it further brought hype to the use of video conferencing.

Following this is the birth of webcams on University campuses during the 1990s. QuickCam was then introduced to the market in 1994. But, it was only compatible with Mac. An improved version that is compatible with Windows is released in the following year. QuickCam later became one of the top computer devices of all time named by Time Magazine in 2010.

Its history will not be complete without the software called CU-SeeMe video conferencing. It was developed by the Cornell University IT department for Mac in 1992 and Windows in 1994. It was then released in 1995, introducing the first internet radio station.

Joining People Together

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Since it’s release, it has optimized the idea of communication for everyone. Bringing people even closer regardless of their distance.

In businesses, not everyone can come to the same face-to-face meetings. With this in consideration, it can spare individuals from the costs of traveling. Thus, ensuring maximum attendance.

It also provides an improved alternative to communication. Allowing for time efficiency which leads to increased productivity. It is a game-changer for businesses. Enabling them to maximize their time through improved communication among members. Making non-verbal communication which brings clarity to every exchange, available.

It’s all about Convenience

video conference
video conference
Image Credit: Flickr

Removing the stresses of travelling in the picture, individuals can focus more on their tasks at hand.

They no longer have to transport their work to different working environments. Video conferencing allows projects to be closely monitored while facilitating a smooth exchange. Directly addressing concerns and inquiries. Members can now hold meetings on their available time regardless of where they are.

Not only does it maximise people’s time, it also saves them tons of energy. Speaking of maximum performance, it also allows for lesser mistakes. If by chance, something was overlooked, employees can easily access a recording of what transpired during the meeting. This way, they can review whatever they have missed.

Making the Most of the Medium

Image Credit: Flickr

It is worth noting that making the most of video conferencing requires an understanding of its pros and cons. Video conference offers several advantages. However, it’s limitations must also be considered. You can only maximise its use by making sure that you have a high-speed internet connection. Plus, you had to have the right equipment to make it work. Otherwise, it’s only going to make conversations rough. Risking the possibility of miscommunication. If this happens, members will be less unified.

It allows you to utilise many features that will improve the quality of your work. But you also have to prepare for the consequences of not meeting its demands. In other words, you should have a backup plan. Doing so leads to satisfactory outcomes.

It is true that it can’t provide the level of familiarity and accuracy of personal communication, but it has made business transactions smoother while reducing expenses. All you have to do is know how to meet its demands to make it work in your favor.

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