Top 7 free voice and video conferencing tools you need during this COVID-19 pandemic.
Technology or innovation best put has not only made the job done easier but also more effective, the world is currently fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and businesses are closing down to work from home which for some businesses might mean low income as such.
The implementation of digital tools that foster conferencing without having people congregate together in a time would come handy in a period of social-distancing as we have now.
We will be sharing some of these tools with you in case you are at a cross as to how to reach your workers/client or hold meetings at a time such as these.
● Zoom — Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing service you can use to virtually meet with others — either by video or audio-only or both. It is ideal for anyone who works remotely or has remote team members. Zoom allows for simple, easy setup meetings or regular meetings in your personal meeting room. Its core features are one on one meetings, group video conferences, and screen sharing.
● Skype — Skype is a telecommunications software that enables digital media conversations. Millions of individuals and businesses use Skype to make free video and voice one-on-one and group calls, send instant messages and share files with other people on Skype.
One can use Skype on whatever works best — on mobile, tablet or computer.
● Google Hangouts — Google Hangouts is a unified communications service that allows members to initiate and participate in text, voice or video chats, either one-on-one or in a group. Hangouts are built into Google+ and Gmail and mobile Hangouts apps are available for ITS and Android devices. Hangouts also have an option called Google Hangouts on Air — allows Google+ users to broadcast video calls live on YouTube.
● Slack video calls — Slack users can take advantage of the call feature by simply using the command/call or clicking the phone icon at the top of the conversation with another Slack user. This is an easy way to make calls right from Slack if you need to ask a teammate a quick question.
● TrueConf Online — TrueConf offers a free plan with up to three participants in video calls. This solution is great for small teams or individuals who need a simple tool to host video calls or collaborate with small groups.
The collaboration features like remote desktop control are helpful for those in support who may need to help a client solve a problem.
● Appear.in — Appear.in is a video chat service ideal for remote employees, remote freelancers or those working with clients who rarely host larger group meetings. It features a fast service due to its streamlined nature. While they have plans that include solutions for bigger teams, the free version offers a nice amount of features for individuals and small group conversations.
● Cisco Webex — Cisco Weber is an industry-standard service, especially for those with a large number of team members or an exceptionally large enterprise, Cisco’s Webex video conferencing service operates like a mash-up of Web conferencing and voice calling services, as it enables joining meetings online or via the phone, depending on the participant’s location and ability at the time.
The bottom line is, all of these tools have a free and paid version which is flexible and easy to use.
