Overview

Video and web conferencing is a useful tool for many applications, such as conducting meetings between different sites, collaborating with other researchers in separate locations, and bringing otherwise inaccessible experts into the classroom. Videoconferencing saves travel time and costs, and allows for a face-to-face meeting between individuals and small groups.

ITS has equipment and facilities to support high-quality video and web conferencing with dedicated Polycom equipment. We can also help configure desktop-based solutions using programs like Skype and ooVoo.

Features

There are several types of video and web conferencing available on the Iowa State campus:

Desktop Videoconferencing	Allows individuals to communicate between single user systems. It involves two-way voice and video contact, but may also encompass other activities such as screen sharing, media display, text-based chatting, and remote collaboration.
Large Group Videoconferencing (Polycom and Access Grid)	Videoconferences where one or more sites have a large group of people require more than desktop videoconferencing software and webcams. Contact Classroom Services at 515-294-8026 to find out more about Polycom and Access Grid videoconferencing.
Webcasts	Webcasts broadcast information via the Web. The end user may not have the ability to interact with the presenter. Webcasts can be viewed by single users on one computer screen or by multiple users by connecting the computer to a projector.
Webinars	Webinars are seminars broadcast over the Web. These normally require advanced registration to gain permission to access the content, and allow for two-way communication, often via chat. Webinars can be viewed by single users on one computer screen or by multiple users by connecting the computer to a projector.
Adobe Connect	Adobe Connect is an enterprise level technology that allows the host location to broadcast seminars and meetings over the internet. Participants see a video of the presenter as well as any materials on the computer in use. Remote participants may also chat with the host and other participants. To host a Connect session, a dedicated server equipped with the Connect software is required; there is one located in Durham Center. Contact Classroom Services at 515-294-8026.
OCS	Microsoft Office Communications Server (OCS) may also be used for videoconferencing. For more information on OCS, please visit OCS (Unified Communications).

Requirements

The minimum requirements of a site involved in a desktop videoconference include:

• Computer (either laptop or desktop)
• High-speed internet connection
• Webcam
• Microphone
• Speaker

You may also need to use specific software or web-based services for videoconferencing. For more information on types of videoconferencing, software requirements and web-based services, visit the Videoconferencing Resources page or contact Classroom Services at 515-294-8026.