I was recently requested to make a recommendation on pc-based internet video conferencing for remote applicant interviews. We have a growing number of non-US applicants, and scheduling a video conference facility is inconvenient and expensive. It would be great to be able to use an office computer for a group to interview an applicant — and even better to be able to remote in faculty from two or three locations for a virtual meeting with the applicant. With Skype, iChat, Webex, and all the others, you’d think we’d find something. But for this specific need we tried, but didn’t find anything suitable. The results are below — if anyone out there know of something that will work, please let me know!
Software is available that works in a satisfactory way for certain limited circumstances:
* One presenter displaying video and power point style presentations to remote audience (webex)
* Two individuals communicating with audio/video on a regular basis (skype, iChat)
Software we tested is not satisfactory for general use for these situations:
* Occasional use, especially with non-technical individuals (set up can be complex)
* Multi-point audio/video with three or more individuals in separate locations engaged in active conversation (not multi-platform)
* Audio/Video feeds with more than one person in room (poor video quality/audio issues)
* Situations where delay due to technical issues is unacceptable (complex setup, unreliable transmission technology.)
Conclusion: Technology is evolving rapidly in this area, but at this time we do not recommend the use of personal computers/web camera for interviewing school applicants. The exception is for situations where all parties involved are experienced in using the chosen technology. We will continue to monitor the services as their features improve, and update this recommendation over the next six months.
Example Technologies
WebEx (webex.com) is an industry leader in remote meeting software. They provide good technical support, and a reliable technology platform. The software is primarily intended for sales and training sessions, with one presenter broadcasting to multiple recipients. While voice transmission over the internet and real-time video from multiple participants is possible, we found these features difficult to set up and implement. The video quality is low and will not work for broadcasting a room with more than one person in it. This is a good solution for meetings/training sessions with one or two remote presenters.
Skype (skype.com) is a freely available video and audio phone-type software. It is cross-platform, running equally well on Mac and Windows computers. Set up requires installation of the software, and establishing a free Skype account. Initial configuration can be tricky. Audio quality is best using an integrated headset/microphone unit – it may not work well in a speakerphone-type group setting. Video will work between two locations only – multipoint video not available. Video quality is better than WebEx, but still low-resolution. Skype transmission platform is prone to service drop outs which can interrupt a meeting. No telephone customer service support. A good solution for communication between individuals with existing Skype accounts. Note that Skype is more popular outside the U.S. and may pose a better option for foreign candidates.
iChat, (www.apple.com/macosx/features/ichat.html) from Apple supports audio and video via the internet. It is available only on Mac computers. It does support multipoint video. Use of AOL Instant Messenger will allow communication with Windows computers, but can be difficult to implement. Requires set up of an iChat and/or AOL Instant Messaging account, as well as some software installation/configuration. A good solution for people with existing iChat and AIM accounts, and familiar with their use.
Comments / ONE COMMENT
ladyfaa added these pithy words on Feb 11 08 at 2:38 amVideo Conferencing and Desktop Sharing So much web worker daily fodder in here. I hate WebEx… have never gotten it to work on my Mac yet. Had a Glance demo this week though, very nice.
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