MANAGERIAL USE OF VIDEO CONFERENCING

The use of video conferencing systems (VCS) for meetings that transcend geographical dispersion in the workplace has increased significantly in recent years. But, where do video conferencing systems fit in relation to traditional communication media used in the workplace? Research suggests that VCS is somewhere between the telephone and face-to-face meetings in terms of media richness. Guidelines on how to use this technology more efficiently and effectively focus on the type of meeting, the emotional content of the situation, the number of sites and individuals included and preparation for the meeting itself. Appropriate use of VCS promises to provide great benefits in productivity.