Polycom and TANDBERG Video Conferencing vs. Skype
Posted by Kristin McClune on Wed, Apr 28, 2010 @ 10:36 AM
One question we hear over and over from prospective customers is "Why should I go with Polycom or TANDBERG video conferencing systems over a cheaper solution like Skype?"
Below we have outlined the top reasons why you should choose high-end video confernecing solutions over run-of-the-mill, low-quality desktop video applications:
- Interoperability issue - High-end video conferencing systems allow for different manufacturer's video conferencing equipment to be interoperable with each other (e.g., a Polycom video conferencing equipment can connect with a TANDBERG video conferencing equipment). With Skype, however, users are limited to only connecting with other Skype users.
- Video and Audio Simultaneous Calls - High-end video conferencing systems allow for some participants to be on the video call while others can dial into the call over audio only. Skype, however, requires all participants to connect through video (i.e., computers) only.
- Limited Growth - High-end video conferencing systems allow for unlimited number of participants to join a call, thus assisting with an organization's growth. Skype limits concurrent calls to 30 participants, making scalability an issue for growth.
- Audio quality - High-end video conferencing systems offer a crisp, clear audio. Skype, however, lacks the crisp audio and echo canceller, and also even recommends the use of a headset.
- Video quality - High-end video conferencing systems offer a sharp, clear video, with no lag time. Skype, however, lacks the video quality and due to the required network connection has a highly noticeable delay in the transfer of video and audio information.
- Security - High-end video conferencing solutions offer a highly secure network through the latest encryption methods that prevent the exchange of information over video from going into the wrong hands. Skype, however, does not have a security network, allowing for information to be leaked and compromised.
Have you used both high-end video conferencing solutions and Skype? Which do you prefer? Tell us about the difference you experienced!