Video conferencing is becoming increasingly popular, and global organizations are using the application from the boardroom to the desktop. Workers are adjusting – often happily – to this new world of collaboration as unified communications becomes a standard part of our workflow. New entrants to the workforce often expect video to be a part of their daily experience. And tablets are replacing laptops as the business travel device of choice.
At the same time, we’re seeing a tremendous increase in the number of telecommuters, a growing phenomenon of ‘bring your own device,’ or ‘BYOD,’ in the workplace, and the overall consumerization of IT. Workers should be able to have a high quality video experience anywhere anytime. And they want this experience to be seamless, easy to use and provide the same features and benefits they experience in the office, including high definition audio, video and content-sharing and review as well as moderation capabilities.
While many experts have published video conferencing etiquette tips, few have published recommendations for this newest addition to the world of visual communications – mobile video conferencing. Below, I’ve indicated 10 Top Tips for mobile video:
- Learn the “ins and outs” of the solutions available today – look for those that enable multiparty calling, will connect to any standards-based video system/client, and that enable content-sharing and review.
- Know how-to leverage multi-touch gestures, drag and drop, etc. to maximize the real estate and enhance your experience.
- Learn layout options and check self-view so you know what those on the far end are seeing.
Understand that the experience varies between a smartphone and a tablet – utilize the best device for your needs.- Take advantage of device stands when possible to avoid “shaky camera syndrome.”
- Mute yourself when not speaking, use a headset for optimal audio, and “mute” your camera when you’re on-the-go.
- Ensure the room is well lit and avoid backlighting, as it will make you appear dark to those on the far end.
- Choose a video conferencing solution that replicates human interaction best, i.e. ones that don’t keep you front and center as if you’re the presentation, when you’re not talking.
- In-person meeting etiquette still applies. Distracting behaviors, like eating, checking email or having side conversations can take away from the true collaboration experience – so skip it.
- Make the road work for you, and get connected! The quality of mobile video chatting today enables a much more personal experience, allowing users to improve productivity anywhere and at anytime.
I’d love to hear your feedback and what your experience has been with mobile video. And if you’re not yet connected, try out one of our virtual rooms for 30 days free of charge – just go to www.radvision.com/trymobile to sign up.
With mobile video conferencing, the whole equation of the participant sitting just sitting in front of webcam and attending the conference need not be true. The video participant may be mobile (walking or travelling in a convertible while on conference)? Would that impact the conferencing adversely?
If someone is walking while participating, it’s probably best to mute the camera and join by audio/content review only. This would prevent participants at the far end from getting “sea sick.” However, if someone is in a moving vehicle, on train, etc. and he/she can place the smartphone or tablet in a relatively stable position, I think video is a very viable option.