To implement video conferencing, enterprises have several options:

  1. Manage video conferencing internally / do-it-yourself
  2. Outsource to “white-gloved” provider
  3. Cloud-based video conferencing service (Vidtel)

Let’s take a look at these.

Internal video conference management

In the first case, apart from web-based approaches such as Skype, companies managing business-grade video conferencing systems internally will need video conferencing expertise (knowledge of gatekeeper, SIP proxy server and other video conferencing server implementation and maintenance), upfront infrastructure expenses (thousands of dollars in server equipment), and on-going support and maintenance expenses.

With many internal implementations, video conferencing capabilities are limited to internal-use only as firewall issues prevent connectivity outside the enterprise.  Many implementations are also limited to a single vendor because it’s simply too difficult to integrate technologies from different vendors. Disappointing after all that expense and expertise spent.

Managed video conferencing service

Larger companies tend to opt for a managed service if not hosting video conferencing internally.  While this approach avoids internal IT expertise and outsources on-going maintenance, it is very costly and still doesn’t always allow for connectivity easily between enterprises.

Vidtel’s cloud-based video conferencing service

This brings us to the third (and we think, preferred!) option for any size organization.   Our approach means that you don’t need to invest upfront in expensive infrastructure, maintain it or hassle with configuration and setup. We do that for you.  Our cloud approach is also cost-effective, since you only pay a small monthly fee for point-to-point connections and pay a fraction of the typical managed service fees for high-quality multi-party conferencing.

Vidtel’s approach lets you mix-and-match technologies, too. You might want to use a LifeSize Passport in a small conference room, for example, but have a Tandberg E20 on an executive’s desktop and have traveling employees connect to the same video conference with Google Talk.  No problem. That works with Vidtel’s service.