More and more teams are using remote workers on their team, which can put a strain on communication without the right video conferencing software and other comms tools. This particularly disadvantages those who are not based in the office, as they might miss out on the benefits of being in the room.

Contingent workers are a valuable asset and 88% of hiring managers report increasing comfortability with installing remote workers in even more senior positions. As hybrid teams become more common, there is a need for the right communication and collaboration tools that can bring people together.

According to the Owl Labs State of Video Conferencing 2019 report, video conference meetings are the preferred method of communication when in-person meet-ups are not possible. That means that video conferencing is now the favored method of communication over email, instant messaging, and phone calls.

This article will help you quickly compare and evaluate the best web conferencing software and other meeting apps. In this post, I’ll discuss how teleconferencing tools can amplify your meetings, webinars, and presentations.

Quickly Compare & Evaluate The Best Web Conferencing Tools

Teleconferencing Software FAQ

What is video conferencing software?
Video conference software is a type of technology that helps launch and host video-based communication between multiple parties. They may include file sharing capabilities, an online video recorder, messaging systems, and other communication-based tools.

What is video conferencing equipment?
In order to host or participate in a video conference, you will need a set of video conferencing equipment. The equipment needed will depend on the type of video conference you want (number of participants, type of video stream, et cetera). Common video conferencing equipment includes a webcam, headset, microphone, a broadband connection, monitor or TV display, and your choice of web conferencing software.

What are some alternatives to Skype?
Skype is one of the more well-known video conferencing tools but it’s not the only one available. You can also try these alternatives to Skype: Google Hangouts, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Connect, Cisco Webex, Join.me, Ryver, and more.

What is the best free online meeting software?
Working on a tight budget? Here are some free teleconferencing tools you can rely on: Google Hangouts, Zoom (free plan), Skype, Free Conference Calling, GoToMeeting (free), Apple FaceTime, UberConference, TrueConf Online, Appear.in, Slack Video Calls, Facebook Live, YouTube Live, and more.

Not looking for video chat apps? Check out our other lists of top project management tools:

1. Video call apps aren’t the only way to keep in touch with partners, teammates, and clients. There are many different communication tools that you can use.
2. Collaborative tools are important – but is it time to move away from Basecamp? Try these 10 Basecamp alternatives to shake things up.
3. Below, you’ll see that we outline Microsoft Teams as a solid choice for conference call software. If you’re already in the Microsoft ecosystem, check out Planner as well.

Software Comparison Criteria

What are we looking for when we select video conferencing software for review? Here’s a summary of my evaluation criteria:

1) User Interface (UI): Is it clean and attractive?

2) Usability: Is it easy to learn and master? Does the company offer good tech support, user support, tutorials, and training?

3) Features & Functionality: 

   Interactivity Features – Does the tool allow ways to get your audience involved in the presentation like polls, surveys, or a blackboard?

   Accessibility – Does the tool offer options for recording/playback, subtitles, closed captioning, screen capture, note taking, and so on?

   Document sharing / collaboration options – Can users share, edit, mark up, and save documents within a collaborative space? Do these tools work seamlessly with the video software to enhance the online meeting experience?

   Ease of Searchability – Whether it’s sifting through your contacts or looking over chat notes or call history, does the software make it easy to do so?

4) Integrations: Is it easy to connect with other tools? Any pre-built integrations?

5) Value for $: How appropriate is the price for the features, capabilities, and use case? Is pricing clear, transparent and flexible?