Question

Mr. Bharati is the CEO of TalkOnAir Ltd. The TalkOnAir has offices in Delhi, Bangluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. In order to communicate in time, Mr. Bharati has decided to use Video conferencing. But he is apprehensive about the cost factors and other social impacts on employees. Discuss

1. What is video conferencing? What all equipment is needed to use video conferencing? 
2. What advantages does it offer?
3. What are the disadvantages of using video conferencing?

Answer 1

1. Video conferencing is a two-way videophone conversation. Video conferencing uses a computer, video camera, microphone etc. and network such as the Internet, to conduct a live conference between two or more people.
2. Advantages:
   • Video conferencing is an extremely useful method of communication at long distances.
   • It saves people the time and expense of travel.
   • It can often accomplish many of the things a physical meeting can.
   • Can have stand-alone video conference stations.
3. Disadvantages
   • Costly to implement, but costs may be recovered due to reduced travel.
   • There is potentially high demand on network infrastructure.
   • Transmission delays may impact interaction. 
   • Requires specialist hardware.
   • Lack of eye contact may give the wrong message.
   • Social cues are less effective.
   • People may react differently when on camera.