Determining the appropriate format for your company’s conference calls can be quite a challenge, as it requires a full evaluation of available conferencing options that best fit the type of activity or meeting.

Based on an enormous number of inquiries called into audio, Web and video conferencing solutions provider ACT Conferencing, it is apparent many potential conferencing participants need assistance in navigating the many conferencing options out on the market. Be it Skype (News - Alert), GoToMeeting, or conference call experts Eagle Conferencing, the service chosen by a company should be an ideal match for the type of conference call taking place.

ACT Conferencing suggests conferencing organizers consider the following when establishing which service to use for a meeting: the number of people involved; the type of communication – audio, video, pre-recorded material – desirable during the conferencing session; the probability of shared information such as a video or presentation; and the level of interaction anticipated among participants, whether it’s live surveys, submitted questions or open conversation.

In addition, as reported by TMCnet, the first question a company should ask itself before making a decision is how often it will use the service. Companies that make conference calls only on occasion can certainly choose a commercial service—it’s uncomplicated, straightforward and reliable. In addition, it is cheaper than its specialized counterparts. Companies need only make a reservation from the outside service, and pay the invoice.

On the flip side, companies that frequently use conference calling may want to consider an in-house system to save money in the long term. Robert Poe from VoIP News (News - Alert) writes, “A consistent conference-call schedule makes it easier to compare the cost of purchasing a system with that of paying for a service.”

When it comes to navigating all these choices available on the market, Eagle Conferencing offers an array of solutions that meet specific requirements for your business needs, including crisis management, sales, real-time training, market research, project management, and more. These high-end conference calling solutions have proven to have a profound impact on industries of all kinds, including coaching and self-help, sales and pharmaceuticals.

In the end, a conference call can be significantly cheaper than partaking in face-to-face meetings, so it’s best to make sure you are choosing the type of service that fits your meeting best. 

Tammy Wolf is a TMCnet web editor. She covers a wide range of topics, including IP communications and information technology. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Jennifer Russell