We live in a world in which one-in-five workers around the globe frequently telecommute,and in some countries, more than half of the population does so on a daily basis. Thanks to developments in technology, even can outsource work and have contractors or employees in another part of the country or across an ocean. Large corporations often need to have numerous locations in international hubs to keep up with demands and be successful. Because of this, they rely more and more on telephonic and video exchanges to relay information in real-time through MCUs (Multi-point control units). Some Fortune 500 companies have even gone so far as to invest millions of dollars in equipment and specially designed roomsused to host video conferences. Unfortunately, these expensive systems are still so limited in their capabilities that communications are constrained to within their own company or simply to people within a specific group who have purchased the same restrictive software. Until Blue Jeans Video Bridge emerged, these individual groups had no way to communicate with one another. It was akin to playing a childhood game of telephone. Now, there’s a universal, interoperable platform that can unite people, regardless of existing software or device. Here’s how they make it happen:
- It Works Via Web Browser
There’s no special software to download and no limited browser capability. Video conferences can be attended by anyone who has an Internet connection, a webcam and a commonly-used browser like Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer or Safari. Blue Jeans Video Bridge also works across multiple operating systems, so whether someone is using Windows, Mac OS X or Linux, they can collaborate together. Joining a conference is as easy as clicking a link within an email. It’s that simple.
- It Tears Down the Walls of Traditional Room-Based Systems
Previously, when a large company invested specialized meeting rooms for global communications, they could only converse with others who were also inside one of the linked rooms. This may work just fine for corporate gatherings, but what if the company wants a client, a contractor or someone outside of one of those restricted rooms to attend? It just wasn’t possible unless the corporation spent even more money on technology and buildings to host the meeting. Now, employees using the specialized corporate communications hubs can invite anyone to join, while still linked into the same system they’ve invested in and are familiar with.
- It Links Lync Users
Again, due to built-in limitations, users of this system were previously unable to communicate with others who didn’t use it, and even people who did use it who were part of another company. Currently, anyone who uses Lync, whether they belong to the same group or not, can communicate in real-time video with whomever they wish.
- It Makes Other Video Software Compatible
Because the bridge is specially designed to be compatible with most major video programs, attendees don’t need to purchase or download anything else to be able to communicate seamlessly. They can employ their existing program to conference with someone who uses a competitor’s utility.
- It Features Audio Connectivity via Phone
There are various times when attending a conference via video isn’t reasonable, possible or prudent. If an attendee is running late, can’t get an Internet connection or simply doesn’t want to be seen that day, he can still participate. With full audio capabilities, he can dial into the session using the bridge to connect from any land line or mobile phone.
- It Allows for Mobile Connectivity
Using a simple app, iOS and Android users can join in a collaboration session from their tablet or smart phone in total confidence they’ll have the same experience and connectivity as the rest of the group. There’s no need to be locked away in a conference room or tied down to a desk. All the collaborator needs is an Internet connection and the app to be present.
Gathering a team together regardless of device, software or equipment has never before been possible. However, with the advent ofBlue Jeans Video Bridging, interoperability between multiple systems feels like a walk in the park. It’s not just a bridge between several users; it’s a bridge between people across multiple platforms, systems and devices. It allows small companies and large corporations the same opportunity to unite people across the globe in one video collaboration session, free from the confines of a single MCU. With today’s diverse workforce, including telecommuters, virtual employees, remote centers and satellite offices, it’s not only important for employees to be able to gather together in real-time to discuss issues and host brain-storming sessions, but it’s also essential that they be able to it in a manner that’s easy and cost-effective.
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