Netmeeting software or appliances are important communication tools, but they must be used effectively to be considered a success. As more companies opt for the web conferencing format over business travel, it has become evident that counting the dollars saved is not enough. Successful deployment of any netmeeting solution is not always guaranteed. There are steps that can be taken to determine whether this investment is worth the time and money put into it.

Steps for Assessing Web Conferencing Success

• Have a clearly defined goal: This is perhaps the most important aspect of using an online meeting solution. You have to know exactly what you want from it to properly evaluate its effectiveness. Some companies use netmeeting software for staff training or for sales team mobilization. Some simply use it to host webinars for customers or to offer technical support to both staff and clients. In many cases, it is a combination of these reasons and others which lead to web conferencing use.

• Create a budget: There are a number of online meeting tools available, offering varying degrees of technological advancement. Some companies opt for appliances like RHUB Communication’s TurboMeeting 4-in-1 Web Conferencing Appliance. Buying software or using free hosted services are also options. In the long run, appliances may be better value for money simply because the company owns it and pays no additional fees. They also offer a lot more features than standard or free software.

• Examine ease of use: If it is not easy to install and implement, no matter how great it is, software will turn users off. Operating the software should not be a complex issue. Teaching staff the ‘ins and outs’ of a web conference solution should be done in relatively short time.

• Ask for feedback: Feedback from staff internally or from clients and partners is one of the best ways to determine the effectiveness of your online meeting solution. Positive feedback will depend on a number of factors including ease of use. Holding meetings on time and ensuring that the message is clear and engaging will also yield positive results.

Of course every company that implements an online meeting solution hopes to see benefits in terms of savings and time. This includes savings realized from cutting back on business travel and improved workplace efficiency. Acceptance of interactive web conferencing tools has not been an easy road. As application and file sharing and streaming media capabilities continue to improve, netmeeting technology is gaining and will continue to gain a larger audience.