March 02, 2009
Citrix Online Launches HiDefConferencing Audio ServicesBy Rajani Baburajan, TMCnet Contributing Editor Citrix Online, a division of Citrix Systems (News - Alert) and provider of application delivery infrastructure, has introduced through its Audio Service Group, HiDef Conferencing audio services, which allow customers to easily initiate and manage audio conferences.
HiDef Conferencing is used to conduct professional audio conferences without the need for expensive operator assistance, officials said.
Conferences can be initiated via Microsoft (News - Alert) Outlook or by logging into the HiDef Conferencing audio service. Conference management from the phone or computer is easy and intuitive.
HiDef Conferencing is suitable for all types of businesses, Citrix said. The service can be used to manage up to 500 participants and provides better audio quality than traditional telecom services as well as saves money with flat rate, predictable monthly pricing.
Important features of HiDef Conferencing include: Outlook plug-in for easy scheduling; free call recording and storage with recordings available online or by phone; mute or un-mute functions and “hand-raising” to let muted participants request to speak; lock control to prevent additional participants from joining; entry and exit beeps and a session security code. HiDef Conferencing audio services can also be used by larger organizations to enable integrated management functions on a per-minute basis. Also, with the services’ wideband capabilities, it's possible to significantly raise the quality of voice transmission compared to telephone service. HiDef Conferencing audio service plans start at $40 per month and come with unlimited Skype and local phone minutes. According to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) industry expert Andy Abramson (News - Alert), HiDef Conferencing helps organizations significantly reduce costs by combining convenient, free Skype calling with affordable, fixed-rate pricing offered by the HiDef Conference audio service. HiDef Conferencing puts quality conferencing within reach of any size organization, especially those that have been disappointed by existing services, says Ben Lilienthal, general manager of Citrix Online (News - Alert) Audio Services Group, “We’re delivering an affordable, self-service option that provides a wide array of features and functionality, from free recording to integration with Outlook and Skype (News - Alert).” Rajani Baburajan is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Rajani's articles, please visit her columnist page. Edited by Stefania Viscusi |