Top Vendors for Audio Conferencing

A Guide to Audio Conferencing

Growing businesses often experience rapid expansion, with offices spreading to cities throughout the country. As employees increase and departments expand, it may be difficult to maintain communication in business operations. However, there are a variety of technologies that help offices communicate with employees and clients. One technology, known as audio conferencing, is a popular choice for businesses, professionals, and organizations.

Audio conferencing is the type of telephone call that allows different parties to connect to each other. Regardless of their location, individuals can engage in real-time communication with others while maintaining an atmosphere of professionalism. Audio conferencing can be used for a variety of purposes, whether to hold a meeting or conduct a class. Offering flexibility and mobility, audio conferencing allows the individual to interact with others without appearing in person.

The Advantages of Audio Conferencing

Businesses are able to take advantage of the wide variety of benefits offered by audio conferencing. Some benefits include:

Lowered Costs:
Travel expenses for employees can be quite costly, especially if they are engaging in frequent, long-distance travel. Booking tickets, gas expenses, transportation costs – these expenditures can rapidly add up, taking a chunk out of any budget. However, audio conferencing allows businesses to engage in conferencing in a more efficient method. Audio conferencing equipment can support multiple people, allowing parties to conduct a meeting from around the world.

Flexibility:
Oftentimes, companies planning a meeting would often have to start preparation weeks in advance. Coordinating large groups of people lead to difficulties and conflicting schedules, as well as travel issues. Logistics concerns and costs arise, as individuals would need to determine a meeting time and place that is suitable for all parties. However, audio conferencing removes this concern by providing a quick and easy solution. This technology allows individuals to become accessible, allowing a meeting to be set up within a few minutes. With the flexibility of audio conferencing, businesses are able to run more efficiently and smoothly.

Security:
Naturally, many people may be distrustful of technology, worried that their communications may be compromised or insecure. However, audio conferencing offers a variety of security measures that prevents against unwanted listeners. Generally, access to audio conferencing is protected through ID, pin numbers and passwords, which are only granted to participants in a meeting. Calls can be locked to prevent others from accessing the encrypted system. In addition, participants can also engage in advanced security measures, such as firewalls and SLL encryption.

Tips for Purchasing Audio Conferencing

The benefits of audio conferencing can be tremendous; however, companies must understand what it takes to purchase such a system. When choosing an audio conferencing system, consider the following:

Pricing:
When it comes to any purchasing decision, one of the main concerns is the price. Audio conferencing can be used in a variety of applications, whether for small or large businesses. However, the costs of the system may vary according to the client. Audio conferencing providers should offer a number of flexible plans and rates. Businesses should look into whether the costs of a system match their needs and budget.

Equipment:
Generally, audio conferencing is conducted through a conference phone, which possesses the capability to transmit voices to the audience. However, customers should look into whether they require specialized equipment, such as multiple speakers or headsets. Certain equipment may have additional features, such as noise cancellation and reduction.

Provider:
There are a number of providers in the market that offer audio conferencing services. Typically, audio conference providers will offer a password in order to access a call, or playback services. Before signing a contract, make sure that the provider offers all the services that the customer needs.