Vision on

Compatibility is always an issue when setting up a video conference over broadband, especially at short notice. Ideally, the technology required to ensure all the participants have acceptable sound and vision should be as unintrusive and straightforward as possible. Hassles configuring systems to use a common platform only get in the way of the real business at hand: the meeting.

Ironing out glitches can be carried out relatively easily when those taking part work within the same organisation or company. The real headaches begin when those involved belong to different companies using a diversity of computer systems.

Today, there’s more video conferencing software around than you shake a mouse at, but few are easier to operate instantly than Netviewer, the secure desktop sharing, remote support and web-conferencing suite. For Netviewer requires no prior installation and no configuration, making it a breeze for impromptu online meetings.

Netviewer enables users to share information securely in real-time via the web. The application allows the setting up of live meetings via webcam, but also lets users share monitors to view, discuss and edit almost any type of file, be it a website, Word document, graphics, spreadsheet or other business-related file.

The only system requirement for using Netviewer is an internet connection. Each session is securely encrypted, with the software running over net rather than being installed on the user’s machine. This means there are no application downloads and therefore no need to worry about new software trashing system settings or registry.

According to the German company behind the application, “Netviewer is fast becoming an established communications tool along with e-mail, fax and telephone. It can be used with any software application and can save businesses time and money by encouraging employees to conduct meetings from their office or home.”

In the UK, Netviewer is marketed by Avanquest UK. A live demonstration of Netviewer, which takes just a few minutes, can be arranged by contacting them. Or get further information by visiting their web site at www.avaquest.co.uk 

There are, of course, many alternatives, and some of them are free. Among these would be the latest version of Skype, which features video calling, and MSN Messenger7.5  to name but two. The free options do have limitations. Depending on needs, the only way to be sure of getting all the features and functionality you need is to cough up for enterprise-class software.