A big response we get when it comes to video conferencing is, ” why should I pay when I can just use free services like Microsoft Skype and Google Hangout?”. This is a valid question, especially when it comes to means of finance. But like we all know when it comes to free and paid professional services, there is always big distinguishes in regards to features and functionality.
When it comes to video conferencing, comparing a professional version to a free version is like comparing your iPhone 6 to your Nokia Razor flip phone. I know your probably thinking there is no way. So let’s dive into it a little bit deeper and take a look between each of the solutions. Below we will take a look into the differences between a professional-grade and free video conferencing solutions.
Paid solutions are in the business.
While there are some free video conferencing options out their that are fully revolved around video conferencing, the two most popular are Microsoft Skype and Google Hangouts. Both of these businesses have many more technology products and projects their are involved in. This makes it easy to say that a free service is not on the top of their priority list. So if something goes wrong or you need to be able to do more in regards to features, you’re probably out of luck. At least until the newest update comes out which we all know can take a while.
You are far more secure.
Free software means that anyone can have access to it, so naturally its going to be less secure. Now when it comes to business technology, security is a big issue. It is probably the number one concern for most IT professionals when it comes to what a business can and cannot use. With professional-grade video solutions you are obtaining encrypted security, which ensures that the only people involved or accessing your sessions are the people you choose.
Quality, Quality, Quality.
When it comes to any paid service you are paying for a higher quality. This is the same when it comes to a video solution. Professional grade video conferencing solutions focus on the latest in camera, audio, cloud and picture technology. When it comes to a video conference you want it to be as close to a in-person meeting as possible. With a high quality solution you are getting this potential.
Better customer service.
Like we discussed earlier, a professional grade video solution comes from a company that is in the business of video conferencing. They are not focusing on anything else, so they are going to have focused customer service to meet your needs. Your not getting a customer service line that handles multiple technology problems. These representatives are trained and focused on video conferencing.
When it is all said and done with the right video conferencing solution you are getting the bang for the buck. You will not only get the full productivity benefit of hosting video conferences but you have a reliable and effective solution. A bad video conference call can hurt your organizations productivity, efficiency, image and security. Don’t have these diminished by a low quality video solution just to save a few bucks.