In the past few years, the use of video conference technology has skyrocketed, with friends and family using the software to stay in touch over long distances, businesses using its meeting capabilities, and high-profile organizations making use of the extensive live streaming functionalities.
Those who have yet to get on board with video calls, however, may be wondering what all the fuss is about. This article will run through some of the reasons why video conference technology is so popular and look ahead to what the future of the software might look like.
Why is it so popular?
Perhaps the greatest appeal of video conference technology is its flexibility and easy availability. Most forms of this type of technology are free. From small-scale calling available on Apple’s Facetime to large-scale conferencing on Zoom, it is readily available for a multitude of uses.
Businesses have found it invaluable for cross-departmental or multi-office meetings, for interviewing candidates who cannot attend an in-person assessment, and even for performance management purposes such as mid-year reviews and campaign management – a vitally important aspect to get right as it could affect productivity, motivation, and engagement. Not only does the technology make these activities more convenient, but it could also bring environmental advantages. Without having to travel long distances to meet with a work partner or potential investor, less fuel will be used, and carbon dioxide emissions will be reduced.
Countries across the world are now developing their own video-chatting applications that are being accessed by a wider range of workforces than ever before. With this expansion, their uses have become more diverse, beginning to touch all aspects of socializing and business.
What next for video conference technology?
There is much debate over what direction video conferencing will take. Some believe that its popularity will wane as, following the end of many of the restrictions that came with the coronavirus pandemic, friends and family are more likely to meet in person than to settle for seeing their loved ones on a screen. On the other hand, it is difficult to see businesses lessen their use of the software when it has proved so productive.
What is almost a certainty, however, is that the technology itself will become more advanced, with greater functionality and a wider range of uses. Huge tech companies have shown they can create a 3D model of the user, making the video conference experience much more immersive and realistic as the person you are calling appears to be sitting right in front of you.
This kind of technology will no doubt prove itself useful for corporate bodies, but perhaps its most exciting application will be with social enterprises and healthcare organizations. With a more immersive video experience available, professionals in these fields could be able to form better relationships with their clients or patients.
Whatever the next steps for video conference technology are, it’s incredibly likely it is here to stay. Those interested in getting on board with the software should ask a friend to get them set up, show them how it works, and get them making the most of this popular invention.
