The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way we communicate with each other. This change is especially notable when it comes to the work environment. Instead of boring in-person meetings, you have to attend Zoom conferences that somehow succeed at being even more infuriating. Now, we all are a little bit tired because of the pandemic and its effect on our mental state.
While Zoom has been quite helpful at keeping us connected even though many of us are having to work remotely, it is true that some of Zoom’s features could be improved. If you are unsure how to go about the process of finding a better and more reliable way to communicate with your work colleagues, let’s take a look at some factors that need to be considered.
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What is Zoom?
Zoom is a video and audio conferencing platform that is also marketed as a way to do screen sharing for large groups at once. Many organizations use Zoom for their internal meetings, as well as for meetings with clients and vendors. Other companies preferred to use a dedicated PBX (Private Business Exchange) though the two solutions are not mutually exclusive.
Zoom is quite user-friendly and can be set up by anyone. It allows people on the platform to share their screens with one another and communicate audibly and by text chat. However, some users of Zoom have been experiencing security issues with unwanted visitors breaking into sensitive meetings.
The other issue with Zoom is that it appears to be less stable than some other platforms in the video conferencing space. Although the app comes with comprehensive support from its parent company, it can be somewhat challenging to get a ticket out.
5 Tips For Finding A Better Alternative to Zoom
Saying goodbye to Zoom is not easy, but it is one of the best decisions that you can make for your business. Here are five tips for finding a better alternative.
Test Out Some Alternatives to Zoom
You need to be able to find an alternative that is just as user-friendly and easy to use as Zoom. If you test out one or two alternatives, you will be able to quickly identify whether or not you have found something that works nearly as well as the original product. Sometimes, you will need to have more than one alternative in mind before proceeding with this phase of the project.
Thankfully, most software developers offer free trial periods of their product so you can test out several platforms before deciding on the one that’s best for you.
Determine What Makes a Good Video Conferencing Platform
There are many different features that you will want from a video conferencing app. These features can include the ability to share files, work on documents and presentations together, chat with your colleagues and also have an intuitive interface. Once you have determined what features you want in a good video conferencing app, you can then look for products that meet these requirements.
Define Your Budget
The different apps and platforms available for your video conferencing needs all come at varying prices. Before you set out to find the right platform for you and your company, it will be a good idea to decide how much you are willing to spend first.
By defining your budget before you set out in search of the product, you will be able to quickly filter out products that you are not going to get no matter how good they might be. This way, you won’t need to test out every product on the market, only the ones that meet your requirements and fit your budget.
Don’t Underestimate the Value of Reliable Support
Ideally, you’ll get software that works perfectly, and nothing will ever go wrong. Unfortunately, that wishful thinking simply doesn’t correspond to reality. Invariably, you will encounter some form of technical problems with any software you use, no matter how well designed it might be.
When technical problems arise – either in installation or in use – you will want them resolved quickly and easily. This is where a developer’s support team comes into play. And their role is vital to the user’s satisfaction. When you read reviews about a certain software program or video conferencing platform, make sure to pay special attention to comments regarding the support available. You’ll be glad you did.
In Conclusion
There are a lot of reasons why some people have decided to say goodbye to Zoom. It’s not because they don’t need to use a reliable video conferencing platform – quite the contrary.
The good news about technology is that, for the most part, we can easily replace an app or website when we feel like we are not getting our money’s worth. Do your due diligence. There’s no reason for you to continue using a platform you are not completely satisfied with.
