VoIP conference systems allow a group of users to engage in conference calls with IP technology rather than analog telephony. Several people can speak at the same time to share information with a group of people, as opposed to just a two-way call. This can save businesses a lot of money in long distance charges, as well as travel costs that would have been spent on in-person meetings.

How it Works

VoIP telephony works by converting audio signals into packets of data and transmitting them across the Internet. These signals will reach either an analog phone or VoIP phone and be deciphered accordingly so that the receiver can understand the audio messages. In short, you will be talking through a computer and not a phone line.

VoIP conferencing uses VoIP technology and merges the conversations of several people at once. Everyone in the conference will be speaking through VoIP phones and packets must be delivered to everyone in the conference when someone speaks. Though VoIP conference systems still have a few kinks to work out, this method of holding long-distance meetings is expected to become the norm within the next decade.

Conference calls can either be hosted by a service provider or hosted on a company’s private bridge. Hosted conference calls are usually easier to organize and require less technical know-how from the users’ end. However, it can also result in diminished quality of sound, as data packets (which carry the audio signals) must bounce around to different places to reach each user. The more people that speak on the conference call, the more things can become jumbled.

By using a private network for making conference calls within a company, the audio quality will be much clearer. This is preferred by many large companies that need to hold meetings on a regular basis with people who are in different locations. Hosting a conference bridge will require the skills of IT professionals, however. For large companies with IT personnel on staff, this shouldn’t be a problem.

What to Look For

Freeware VoIP conferencing software is available, such as GnomeMeeting and Gspeakfreely. Free software is recommended for those with advanced IT skills. However, technical novices should opt for commercial VoIP conferencing software, such as cu-HearMe, Voice Now and Icon Communicator. Commercial software will come with technical support and a easy installation. Look for the program that meets your business needs and budget.

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