Many technological neophytes are awed at the prospect of videoconferencing, and take much of the technology that makes this process possible for granted.  At face value, it does appear to be an easy enough process that permits individuals as two or even more locations to interact and collaborate on a project. It may come as a bit of a surprise to the uninitiated, but this technology is not new.  As a matter of fact, with the advent of television technology and the manned space flights, videoconferencing took place as early as 1968.  Sometimes, however, beginners wonder about this technology and its influence, use, and idiosyncrasies, and this beginner’s guide to videoconferencing should help you to become acquainted with the basics.

1. Two or more parties may participate in a videoconference.

2. The technology that is involved allows for real-time audio and video transmission.

3. The method by which this real-time transmission is made possible is referred to as digital compression.  The audio is inputted into the system via microphones, while it is received on the other end via a loudspeaker.  The video input is achieved via a video camera, while the output may be received via a computer monitor or even a television set.  At times, the output may be projected onto room-sizes big screens. Visual data, such as charts, graphs, and manuals, may be transmitted simply via an Internet connection.

Uses for videoconferencing are almost endless:

• Schools enjoy the ability to have teachers participate in videoconferences to keep up with the latest education innovations, as well as keep up to date on continuing education credits.
• Students like the idea of connecting with friends from around the country and collaborating on projects and assignments.
• The medical profession finds this tool incredibly valuable since it allows teams of physicians and researchers to work together.  This approach has advanced medical knowledge and research, as well as contributed to the saving of countless lives.  No longer to charts and X-rays have to be mailed or couriered, but they can now be scanned and electronically uploaded and sent while the collaborating physicians are discussing the cases via videoconference.
• The legal profession has discovered this technology to facilitate depositions, and expert testimonies with individuals and authorities from across the globe.
• Of course, you cannot discount the many advantages our politicians have realized for this technology.
• Newcomers to this tool of communication are spiritual organizations and churches, since it now permits congregations to connect and unify in training sessions.

As you can see, while the technology itself is not new, its applications have changed over time, and its usefulness has increased exponentially.  Advances in technological peripheries, such as improved input and output technology, have long since done away with grainy pictures, pixel freeze, and non-matching audio and video streams.  Conversations do not stall because a file is slowly uploading and connections are not lost due to telephony drops. In addition to the foregoing, businesses are able to make deals without having to schedule copious meetings and drive or fly back and forth.

It is not surprising that videoconferencing is catching on. Beginners sometimes wonder why someone would not just make a phone call and perhaps e-mail a file to the person on the other end.  Here are some reasons why videoconferencing is a technology sure to stay and continue to evolve:

• Businesses are able to save large amounts of money that would otherwise have to be earmarked for travel, meals, accommodations, and entertainment expenses.
• Educators no longer have to miss valuable class time to attend out of town conferences.
• Physicians are now able to collaborate on cases within minutes, and these minutes may save lives that otherwise would be lost.
• Families enjoy the opportunity to interact with loved ones across the globe.  It is finally possible to stay in touch and experience that first birthday, the fiftieth anniversary, or the toast to the bride and groom.
• Law enforcement agencies are able to cooperate more effectively and apprehend wanted criminals. 

Beginners are sometimes amazed when they look back at the early days of this technology.  It is truly a marvelous journey from the early pictures of 1968 to the fantastic streaming video of 2006. 

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