Conference call vs. video conference: When is which method better?

Conference call: advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

1. Simplicity and accessibility: A conference call is extremely user-friendly and requires no special hardware or software. A simple telephone is all that is needed to dial in, making it easier for less tech-savvy people to participate.
   
2. Low technical requirements: As only one telephone line is required, the conference call is generally less susceptible to technical problems such as poor internet connections or software errors.
   
3. Flexibility: Participants can dial in from almost anywhere, be it from the office, on the road or even from abroad. This makes the conference call particularly practical for busy people.
   
4. Cost savings: As no video technology is used, data requirements are minimal. This can be particularly advantageous if participants are working in areas with limited data volumes.

Disadvantages:

1. No visual communication:
   One of the main disadvantages of teleconferencing is the lack of visual cues. Body language and facial expressions, which are often important aspects of communication, are lost, which can lead to misunderstandings.
   
2. Limited interaction:
   Without visual support, it can be more difficult to have a lively discussion. Participants must rely solely on verbal cues,
   which can limit the dynamics of a meeting.
   
3. Difficulty identifying speakers: In larger conference calls, it can be challenging to identify the current speaker, which can lead to confusion and ineffective communication.

Video conferencing: advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

1. Visual communication: A video conference allows participants to see each other, which enables more personal and effective communication. Facial expressions, gestures and other non-verbal signals help to minimize misunderstandings and improve interaction.
   
2. Better collaboration: Thanks to screen sharing, virtual whiteboards and other collaborative tools, video conferencing is ideal for teams that need to work together in real time, for example during presentations or creative brainstorming sessions.
   
3. Increased attention: As participants are visually present, they are more likely to actively participate and are less distracted. This often leads to more productive and focused meetings.
   
4. Global reach: A video conference enables collaboration with partners and colleagues worldwide as if they were in the same room. This promotes global collaboration and saves travel costs at the same time.

Disadvantages:

1. Higher technical requirements: Video conferences require stable internet connections, cameras, microphones and often special software. Technical problems such as disconnections or delays can significantly disrupt the course of a meeting.
   
2. More cost-intensive: The use of video conferencing platforms can be associated with higher costs, especially for large or frequent meetings. This can be exacerbated by the need for licenses, hardware and higher data consumption.
   
3. Time-consuming preparation: Compared to a telephone conference, a video conference often requires more preparation, especially if several participants from different time zones or with different technical requirements take part.

Conference call vs. video conference: When is which method better?

The choice between teleconferencing vs. video conferencing depends heavily on the situation and specific needs. Here are some guidelines:

• Conference call is better when:
  • The participants have limited technical resources.
  • A quick and uncomplicated meeting without visual aids is sufficient.
  • The participants in areas with a poor Internet connection are.
  • It is an informal conversation in which visual support is not required.
    
• Video conferencing is better when:
  • Visual communication is required for understanding or collaboration.
  • presentations, workshops or training courses.
  • A stronger bond or a better team spirit should be promoted through visual presence.
  • The participants have the necessary technology and a stable Internet connection.

Conclusion

Both teleconferencing vs. video conferencing have their own advantages and are useful in different situations. The right choice depends on the specific requirements of your meeting. If visual communication and collaboration are key, video conferencing is the better choice. If, on the other hand, simplicity and accessibility are crucial, teleconferencing offers clear advantages.

How to make the big conference call a success: https://www.talkyoo.net/de/eventkonferenz-checkliste-so-gelingt-eine-grosse-telefonkonferenz/

The video meeting zoom alternative from Germany:
https://boo.eu