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With millions of people now working from home, it’s more important than ever to stay in touch with your employees, co-workers and clients. While you may not be used to working from home and miss the interaction you had with your team, there are plenty of reliable options for video conferencing software available that can help bridge the face-to-face communications gap that comes from working remotely.
Video conferencing is becoming more accessible and affordable–making it easy for companies who have clients or businesses in other states or countries.
The modern workplace is turning to video conferencing that will allow their employees the flexibility to work remotely from home but still successfully get their jobs done. With companies allowing work from home options now, what software should you download and invest in to make sure your company stays on the map?
We took a look at 5 of the best video conferencing software that you can add to your company so you can stay ahead of the times and make sure your employees can be connected even when they’re working from home. Read on.
1. Zoom
Zoom has been on the rise lately, and we can see why. This video conferencing app is easy to use and simple to download. You can use the software on your phone, iPad, or laptop and aims to be a quick and easy setup. The video and audio in HD quality and the app can support up to 1,000 participants at a time in a single video call.
Your meeting can be saved to your computer or the cloud once you’re finished and comes with a transcript of the meeting. There is a share screen feature so employees can work together, and the team chat feature allows workers to file share and look at search history.
Zoom comes with a free tier, but if you’re a company, it is best to invest in either the management pricing for $14.99/month or the rising pricing for $19.99/month.
2. Google Hangouts Meet
Google Hangouts has been around for a while and is part of the G Suite office platform from Google. They’re aiming to give first-class conferencing services and was made specifically for businesses. The software can cater to large users at once and has a fast interaction rate.
If you don’t want to download software to your device, you don’t. Google allows you to use a web app experience to video conference, making it easier for people you’re meeting outside of your company. Mobile users can use the dedicated app, but Google Hangouts Meet also works with existing conferencing hardware, like Skype Business. You can easily use data from other applications with Google Hangouts Meet, and the cost is budget-friendly.
3. Skype
When you think of video conferencing, Skype always comes to mind. You might think Skype is used to keep in touch with friends and family, but it also can be used cross-platform and supply video calls for up to 50 people. If you don’t want to download the Skype app to your device, you can use it via a web browser as well. Skype allows a screen sharing option, and they have an automatic background blur for anyone who needs a more professional-looking room.
They have excellent subtitling options for conversations and the ability to record chats. If more than 50 people need to join, you can pay for the Skype for Business upgrade, but other than that, Skype is free. The paid option also comes with office integration and a stronger security option.
4. Cisco Webex Meetings
Cisco created their own video conferencing software that does not disappoint. The free version allows the use HD video and holds meetings with up to 100 participants. You can include private chat rooms and screen sharing with Cisco Were Meetings, and you get a personal URL when you sign up with Cisco. This URL can be used to manage all your meetings, schedule video conferences, and access any recordings you have made.
If you don’t want to download the app, Cisco allows you to use a browser so you can connect to your meeting. The free package also includes 1GB of cloud storage, unlimited sessions for unlimited length, and the ability to record the meetings. The software also comes with security that provides for encryptions so you can protect your company.
5. GoToMeeting
LogMeIn created this standalone web conferencing software. The audio and video quality is excellent, and you’re allowed to screen share with other users. The app is also super mobile-friendly. Its simple to start and use the software from your smartphone and offers one-tap invites to join meetings and chats.
GoToMeeting does require payment to use, though. The most basic package is $14/month or $12/month with an annual fee. There is also a limit on participants, but 150 people should be more than enough for your company. The business tier is $19/month and allows 250 users and has some admin features. They also offer an Enterprise plan that allows around 3,000 users.
With these apps, video conferencing from home will never be easier. Most of the apps have a free option, but if the ones that have a payment service are affordable. All the software’s easy to use and can be done on a mobile device or web browser. Happy video conferencing!