Know and understand characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of video-conferencing, audio-conferencing, web-conferencing

Topic 4: Networks and the Effects of Using Them

Objective

Know and understand the characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of video‑conferencing, audio‑conferencing, and web‑conferencing.

Video‑Conferencing

Characteristics

• Real‑time transmission of video and audio between participants.
• Requires high bandwidth and low latency for acceptable quality.
• Often uses dedicated software or platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams).
• Supports features such as screen sharing, recording, and virtual backgrounds.

Uses

• Remote meetings and workshops.
• Online education and distance learning.
• Tele‑medicine and remote consultations.
• Virtual conferences and trade shows.

Advantages

• Facilitates face‑to‑face interaction across distances.
• Reduces travel costs and time.
• Allows visual aids and demonstrations.
• Can be recorded for later review.

Disadvantages

• High bandwidth requirements may limit participation in low‑speed areas.
• Potential for technical glitches (latency, dropped frames).
• Privacy concerns if not properly secured.
• Requires reliable power and network infrastructure.

Audio‑Conferencing

Characteristics

• Transmission of voice only, typically over \cdot oIP or PSTN.
• Lower bandwidth than video‑conferencing.
• Often integrated into business communication systems.
• Supports features such as mute, hold, and call transfer.

Uses

• Business meetings and conference calls.
• Customer support and helplines.
• Remote team collaboration.
• Tele‑presence for senior executives.

Advantages

• Requires less bandwidth, making it accessible in bandwidth‑constrained environments.
• Lower latency compared to video.
• Can be used on a wide range of devices (phones, computers).
• Often cheaper to implement and maintain.

Disadvantages

• Lacks visual cues, which can reduce engagement.
• More difficult to share visual information.
• Potential for background noise interference.
• May require additional tools for recording or transcription.

Web‑Conferencing

Characteristics

• Combines web‑based collaboration tools with conferencing features.
• Runs within a web browser, often using HTML5 and WebRTC.
• Supports document sharing, whiteboards, polls, and breakout rooms.
• Can be accessed on mobile devices without additional software.

Uses

• Online classes and webinars.
• Virtual workshops and training sessions.
• Remote project collaboration.
• Public events and live broadcasts.

Advantages

• Easy to join – no installation required.
• Integrated collaboration tools enhance productivity.
• Cross‑platform compatibility.
• Scalable to large audiences.

Disadvantages

• Dependent on browser compatibility and performance.
• Security risks if not properly configured.
• Can be bandwidth‑heavy when many participants share video.
• Limited offline functionality.

Comparison Table