Group Video Teleconferencing vs Web Conferencing: What is the Difference?

AJ Rahman
Assurance Media

Recent developments have made us more reliant on technology than ever to connect. With workforces being spread out and the need to collaborate being stronger than ever, many businesses are turning to software companies with web-based applications like Zoom, Skype for Business, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts, and others for a solution. Group Video and Web Conferencing services and platforms that have been around for a number of years are experiencing a surge in usage. This article will examine the similarities and differences between video and web conferencing solutions along with the pros and cons associated with each so that you can make the best-informed decision when choosing a conferencing audio visual solution for your business.

First, we must define our terms, in the AV industry video conferencing is recognized as two or more participants connected by way of a high-definition audio and video connection. Typically, group video conferencing is hosted on a conferencing bridge on your company’s server. In addition to the bridge, a group video conferencing system also consists of a display, video camera (if not built into the display), and a phone to dial into the bridge.

On the other hand, web conferencing requires no audiovisual equipment beyond personal devices. Web conferencing is a broad term covering anytime there is a live stream in which people interact with each other through the means of the internet. Webinars and webcasts are considered types of web conferencing. Many times, the term web conferencing is used interchangeably with video conferencing, but there are 3 key differences between these two types of conferencing: quality, security, and equipment.

The primary difference between group video and web conferencing is the initial investment. In the case of an audiovisual solution a large display, High definition video camera, conferencing bridge, and phone are installed to support 4K video call and screen sharing. A video conferencing system with the components previously listed requires a financial investment in return for high-quality HD audiovisual connectivity, reliability, advanced options for screen sharing, and most importantly privacy.  This option is best for companies that utilize video conferencing often within the organization themselves and with customers. Users can easily connect using a mobile device or laptop, but the office conference room serves as the primary hub making for a secure and reliable connection as it is hosted on a private connection.

Web conferencing has many options that do not require any investments or if they do it is based on a monthly subscription charge. This option for conferencing is most beneficial to companies that only utilize web conferencing when working remotely and internally. Many cloud-based platforms simply require an account to be created to get started. It is important to research the functionality of the platform that you choose; for instance, do they support 4K video, multi-user screen sharing, recording options, host management tools, or point to point encryption. Also, be sure to examine the platform’s privacy policy; look for what kind of data is stored, where is it stored, by whom, and for what purpose. This is especially important since web conferencing is facilitated over the public internet versus a private server in the case of video conferencing.

In conclusion, when considering which platform your organization should utilize for conferencing think about your organization’s structure, values, and future usage. Consider, what features in a conferencing tool do your employees and customers need to best collaborate. Do you see your company continuing to use conferencing as a tool in the future? Do you have a secure, reliable, and quality connection through group video or web conferencing? The answers to these questions will vary company by company; if you have any questions about video conferencing solutions Assurance Media has been designing, installing, and servicing custom audiovisual systems in the Mid-Atlantic region for over a decade.

About the Author

AJ Rahman joined the company in 2018, with a vast amount of knowledge surrounding audiovisual technology systems, and the industry at large. Before joining Assurance Media, AJ owned and operated a structured cabling, and audiovisual company based in Newark, Delaware called DTI for 13+ years. Since joining, AJ has used his extensive knowledge to design leading edge audiovisual solutions for our customers including intelligent divisible conference rooms, videowall systems, and digital signage solutions. Being a former business owner himself, AJ understands the needs of businesses today and is able to design intuitive audiovisual solutions that best service the needs of each individual customer.