The thought of saving big bucks on travel is not the only thing driving the current interest in web conferencing. This tool along with VoIP, Instant Messaging are fast becoming the go to options for companies looking to jazz up their communications capabilities. Even basic chat has its supporters among business people who want to stay in touch with partners and clients.

The Business Communication Model

As it exists today, business communication involves various points of origin as well as end users. Businesses communicate internally, and they also communicate externally with clients or customers, suppliers, affiliates and partners. For large companies and multi-nationals it is easy to imagine this becoming a mishmash of data traveling back and forth.

This is where a good web conferencing solution comes into play. In business, communication is essential, and the right tool provides control over who gets what, and what goes where. While many companies use IM software internally, this is not suitable for the rigorous demands placed on many of the top web conferencing software. This includes rapid transfer of large files, and quality video conferencing. Additionally, higher-ups often worry that IM software can be used for chat that falls outside the company’s sphere.

Business communication also encompasses efforts at self-promotion. Successful companies know that creating the right image can work wonders for the bottom line. Profit making and self promotion aside, possibly one of the most important aspects is probably the legal implications of business communication.

Tying it all Together

So how can any company maintain tight control over it communications capabilities and at the same time put the best face forward? It would be easy to say buy web conferencing software, but this is not all. Keep in mind that there are free options available for download, but are these enough to streamline communications?

The choice will largely depend on what the company needs, but even immediate needs can be quickly outgrown. This is why many experts recommend scalable options that will eliminate the necessity of constantly buying new software. This is partially what is driving the use of web conferencing appliances in the business world. Two companies that provide these devices are RHUB Communications and Bomgar. When compared, the RHUB appliance poses greater technical advantages for the user. Among the benefits of using an appliance for web conferencing needs are:

• Better overall control of web meetings

• Remote access and support capabilities are vastly enhanced (up to 1000 PCs in some cases)

• They require no monthly fees

• Employee desktops can be monitored if necessary

With so many providers out there, prospective web conferencing users will have lots of options to wade through. Most if not all providers provide free demos of their software so any company can take it for a test run. With a clear picture of the company’s communications needs, a company can filter through the clutter to find a conferencing tool that is ideal for them. Of course, once a selection is made, it is incumbent on the business to make the most the web conferencing solution chosen.