Before Covid-19 hit, online meetings were often an afterthought in the business world. However, with the rise of the new Omicron variant and employees still working from home, more virtual meetings will be likely.
Selecting a virtual meeting platform
for your team can be difficult because there are many factors to consider. Do
you want standard audio and video features, or would you like advancements such
as screen sharing?
Answering these questions can get
you started on your selection process. But in our guide below, we'll provide
further insight on selecting the best virtual meeting platforms for your team.
1.
Consider the Platform's Accessibility
An online meeting should be simple;
you log into your account, click on a link, and you're talking with your
teammates a few moments later. When choosing a platform to use, ensure it isn't
too complex.
Your employees may have many
questions about using it, and there could be communication problems when it's
time for meetings. Also, since you won't be able to offer help in person, it
could lead to frustration among your team.
The aim is to enhance productivity,
not hinder it. If you're having trouble with a platform's features, chances are
your employees will too.
2.
Technological Integration
Any business needs to ensure a
seamless transfer of communication to increase efficiency. So why not use a
virtual meeting tool that integrates with your current technology?
Research platforms to see which is
compatible with the current apps and software you use for daily tasks. For
example, what if you're looking for ways to increase engagement in virtual meetings?
A tool such as HuddleIQ provides
features allowing for live collaboration throughout meetings to ensure everyone
is on the same page. With some detective work, you can find tools with no
integration problems.
3.
Complexity of the Onboarding Process
The best platforms for virtual
meetings don't have a complex onboarding process. But even the most
straightforward tools will have a slight learning curve.
Before selecting an online meeting
service, here are a few questions you should consider:
- Is the process lengthy?
- Will hands-on training be provided?
- Does the platform offer real-time support?
A thorough onboarding process will
make it easier for your team to understand its features. If the meeting tool
you're keeping in mind checks your boxes, continue with your
purchase.
4.
Is It Reliable?
How often have you purchased
software that didn't work at all? It's a frustrating waste of time and
money.
It would help if you had a tool that
allows employees to connect to meetings, whether they live in different states,
countries, or time zones. Regardless of the number of team members at the
meeting, clear audio and video are required.
How can you check the reliability of
service? Read past client reviews. Are most people satisfied with the service?
Or do you see a list of gripes about technological issues?
Remember, you'll also need an
operational tool for screen sharing moments and editing documents in real-time
during your meetings. If there are constant glitches and freezing, it could
affect the productivity of your appointments.
5.
Necessary Features for Your Business
What do you need to have a
successful meeting? That's a question most business owners need to figure out
when looking for the best platforms for online meetings.
Do your meetings consist of
PowerPoint presentations and in-depth graphics? If so, then you'll need a tool
that has screen-sharing capabilities.
What about those that focus on the
individual conversation between team members? You'll need a service that
provides high-definition video.
6.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of online meeting tools
ranges from free to expensive. However, it comes down to your team's
needs, operations, and how much you're willing to pay for the service.
Unfortunately, there is no
one-size-fits-all when it comes to these platforms. Free services can provide
what you need but may lack functionality in some areas.
On the other hand, services with
various components will enhance the quality of your meetings but can come with
a heftier price tag. So research each, compare prices, and see which provides
what you need at a reasonable price.
7.
Security and Encryption
Since more companies use online
meetings for business applications, cyber-attacks are rising. A data
breach can happen anytime, whether from an outside hacker, former employee, or
current staff member.
However, according to recent data,
remote working accounted for over $1 million
in losses for companies with data breaches. For some businesses, a data
breach could be the deciding factor in the company's closure.
Throughout these meetings, you will
talk about a lot of sensitive information. Find a service that has
security measures in place such as:
- Two-step authentication
- Password invitation
- Token access (a code provided to each individual that's
deleted after use)
Any of these methods will prevent
random people from entering your meeting and ensure there's no loss of data. It
will also keep clients at ease because they know their information is in a
secure space.
Find
the Best Virtual Meeting Platforms With Our Tips
There is often a debate surrounding
the best virtual meeting platforms for businesses. But now you have insight
into selecting an exemplary service for your company.
As we continue to get through the
pandemic, we'll need to rely on technology more than ever. So limit your stress
by choosing a tool that will simplify all of your tasks and keep your employees
happy.
To learn more about virtual meeting platforms, check out our blog for related content.
