Webcasts, Webinars, Web Conferencing and Video Conferencing: What's the Difference? A Guide to Web-based Communication Platforms
When it comes to the many methods of online audio-visual communication, there are a lot of seemingly interchangeable terms being used. When it comes to the many methods of online audio-visual communication, there are a lot of seemingly interchangeable terms being used. Though they may seem very similar, there are a number of differences between webcasts, webinars, web conferences and video conferences. In this guide, we will be examining the distinctions between each of these methods of communication, as well as their advantages, disadvantages and ideal application in business. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 2
A webcast can be viewed live or on demand, making it a flexible way to deliver a message. Webcasting The term webcast is a combination of the words web and broadcast. In its most basic form, a webcast allows a video or presentation to be shown over the internet, just as TV shows are broadcast into a home. This form of communication is not interactive; webcasts are almost exclusively one-way forms of communication. As such, they are perfect for reaching a high number of viewers when no interaction is required. A webcast can be viewed live or on demand, making it a flexible way to deliver a message. Viewers can tune in whenever is most convenient for them. Companies also have the opportunity to plan out and record webcasts in advance. This allows for time to focus on production value and making sure that the final product is as polished as possible. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 3
Apart from a desktop computer or mobile device with internet access, there is no need for any other special equipment or software. People can watch a webcast by simply opening up a link in their web browser. Webcasting in action A large company is planning a rebranding campaign. Leaders want to make sure that employees at all branches are informed about the new image. They also want to detail changes that staff must be aware of for business processes moving forward. The company records a presentation that contains all the pertinent information for the rebranding campaign and schedules webcasts for the different branches, which are spread over two time zones. Because the company has planned the webcast in advance, designers and writers are able to make sure that the presentation has comprehensive information that fully accomplishes its educational aims. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 4
Since webinars have interactive elements, they are live events where participants must sign up in advance. Webinars Like webcast, webinar is a portmanteau - a combination of web and seminar. As that construction suggests, webinars are online conferences conducted over the internet. They allow for a presentation to a large number of viewers, and include interactive features. These can include screen and file sharing, live polling and text-based chat functions. Given the large number of participants, webinars are not particularly conducive to dialogue. Since webinars have interactive elements, they are live events where participants must usually sign up in advance. Given this setup, webinars are a great way for companies to conduct training or learning sessions. As an added bonus, they give companies the opportunity for branding as corporate logos can take a prominent position in the presentation. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 5
Webinars in action A young software company has achieved some modest success with a new social media application, but an analysis of user feedback shows that most customers are not aware of many of the program s unique functions. The company wants to educate its user base while also reaching out to potential customers. Leaders decide to schedule a webinar so that large numbers of new and existing customers can sign up to learn how to unlock the full potential of the social media application. Guests can ask the company specific questions through the text chat function. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 6
Using a telephone service for the audio combined with the internet for visual, web conferences allow groups to communicate and collaborate visually in real time, regardless of location. Web conferencing When there is a need for collaborative visual communication in a group of people, a web conference is an ideal solution. Using a telephone service for the audio combined with the internet for visual, web conferences allow groups to communicate and collaborate visually in real time, regardless of location. Using both audio and web technologies simultaneously in a web conference allows for a more reliable audio connection, as using digital lines eradicates the connection issues that are common when relying on web-based audio. The internet connection in web conferences allows participants to see each other, or share documents and other materials on the screen. In some cases, video can also be shared among participants. Unlike webcasts and webinars, which focus on one presenter and multiple viewers, web conferencing is more geared towards group communication and collaboration. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 7
Web conferencing in action A sales team needs to go over strategies for the coming quarter. Since members are dispersed out in the field, an in-person meeting is impractical. The team leader instead sets up a web conference. Each person is able to join the meeting from wherever they are to discuss their ideas. There is robust discussion on the strategy, and team members work together on a shared document to outline the sales plan. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 8
Though there is the potential for screen- and filesharing features, the main purpose of video conferencing is the visual link between participants. Video conferencing Video conferencing is one of the most common forms of internet-based communication in everyday life. It establishes an audio and visual link between two or more people, which enables communication best practices like eye contact and positive body language. This form of communicating is most useful when a face-to-face meeting is not possible due to distance. Though there is the potential for screen- and file-sharing features, the main purpose of video conferencing is the visual link between participants. Setting up a video conference is simple; it just requires the right software, a microphone, a camera and an internet connection. Video conferencing is best suited for small numbers of participants (less than 15 people). A large group of people could make communication difficult. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 9
Video conferencing in action A manager wants to get in touch with business partners in another region, so she sets up a video conference with everyone. She is able to increase attendance because the meeting is convenient and communication is easy since everyone can hear and see one another clearly. They are able to catch up and discuss new industry developments. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 10
Communication services from Eureka Eureka provides professional teleconferencing and web conferencing services. Assistance is available by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You will speak to one of our friendly Australia-based support staff every time. Our recording services also make sure businesses can retain records of important conversations. Businesses can save time and money with Eureka s communication services. For more information on how you can benefit from these services, contact us today. www.teleconference.com.au 1800 735 260 11