Virtual meetings are often lumped together as a single entity, but there are many types, platforms and nuances. We spell it out for you.
Web conferences, webinars, virtual conferences: All virtual meetings are not created equal. Here are the differences.
Web Conference
A web conference is essentially a phone conference where participants dial into a common conference call bridge, via their phones or a link on their computers, using an assigned passcode. Attendees have the option to choose audio or video, and many services allow presenters and attendees to show and share files. This format is ideal for remote team interaction. The down side is that there can be technical issues based on participants’ internet speed. Vendors include UberConference, Zoom.
Webinar
Webinars are live events used primarily for one-way communication, such as seminars and presentations, vs. interaction. They usually run for a finite time period of an hour or less, and can include tools such as polling, group chats and Q&A. They can be recorded and accessed afterwards as well. The biggest difference between webinars and web conferences is scale, with webinars being structured, planned in advance and promoted, then attended by large groups. Vendors include GoToWebinar, ON24Â Â
Virtual Conference
Virtual conferences are the online version of a live meeting condensed into a shorter timeframe of a few hours. There is formal registration (as with a webinar), an agenda, a moderator, multiple speakers, even virtual coffee breaks. Participants can ask questions, chat or join polls. Virtual conference technology crosses the line when it comes to sophistication, with features such as Dolby Voice and immersive video. These companies provide consulting, live support and security safeguards. Vendors include BlueJeans Meetings and Live Online Events
Virtual Trade Shows
Virtual trade show platforms seek to re-create the live experience and are highly visual, with branding options, customizable exhibitor booths, appointments, chat forums and even the ability to perform online transactions. Vendors include vFairs, eZ-XPO
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