Maybe the best thing about interactive web conferencing is that many people online are already using some remblance of the technology. Millions are connected thorough instant messaging services and gaming websites on a daily basis. Microphones and headsets are essential pieces of equipment for this crowded entertainment marketplace. Expand this to the need of modern day business communicate effectively and the importance of secure web conferencing becomes more apparent. Platform matters, but it shouldn’t when dealing with interactive web conferencing. The best appliances allow for seamless integration of Macs and PCs into any discussion, meeting or webinar. Here are a few other points to consider when looking at interactive web conferencing options. • Follow industry news: An article with the headline ‘RHUB Communications Receives 2009 NGN Leadership Award’ is not likely to show up on any of the major news websites. That is why it is up to the business owner to seek out industry specific news in order to make informed choices. • Are there factors which limit accessibility- this cannot be allowed to happen as accessibility is the bedrock of any interactive web conferencing software. Universal attendance technology ensures anyone anywhere can join a meeting quickly. This ensures the highest level of collaboration and ultimately elevated rates of productivity. • Understand security issues: with any Internet based application there are always concerns about vulnerability. Secure web conferencing is an important consideration for any company that wants to prevent unauthorized access to its data. In the same way that people attending conferences are presented with IDs to gain access, web meetings utilize passwords or other access tools. This is basically an open invitation to hackers who can immediately gain access by intercepting an email with a password. Some web conferencing appliances use the computers own firewall to add an extra element of security. Vendors in the industry will continue to offer enhanced security features to make their offerings more attractive to prospective customers. In addition to the points mentioned above, technical support is vital to smoothly transitioning to interactive web conferencing. Bookmarking the sites of well known vendors with relevant news items on the front page is another good way to keep the company and its employees abreast of software updates. In a wide-open field, there are no clear winners but there are certainly a few standouts. RHUB’s TurboMeeting Conference Appliance for example is a heavy favorite among industry customers and analysts. According to one marketing analyst, “The extremely easy installation and almost flawless operation make it a no-brainer for any company needing the services it provides.” A glowing recommendation indeed, but it merely serves as a reminder that industry players will continue to churn out more efficient products at a rapid pace. The web conferencing industry is not slowing down, and neither should your business.