1. Quality and performance
A good videoconferencing service should run seamlessly on any device, be the company endpoints or mobile devices of the employees. Also, look for one that supports 3G/4G mobile networks. This makes it easier for everyone to stay connected and collaborate from virtually anywhere. Additionally, all of this should be possible without any decrease in video quality.
2. Flexibility and Scalability
For business that have already made some hardware installed or those looking to move from on-premise to on-cloud models, it’s best to invest in a VCaaS that easily integrates with your existing IT infrastructure. It’s also important to find out if the service is compatible with your commonly used tools. Pay-as-you-grow (or shrink) models are great for small and mid-size businesses that frequently scale their operations up or down.
3. Security
Cloud-based video conferencing can be equally (if not more) secure than on-premise systems. VCaaS service providers often have a dedicated set of skills and expertise, as well as resources to provide conferencing services in strict compliance with security standards. VCaaS comes as a logical choice for small and mid-sized businesses that do not have the budget or in-house expertise to maintain such high levels of security.
4. Enhanced Reach
With more and more businesses going global, connecting with people across time-zones is more important than ever. With more global clients and partners to connect with and more employees working from outside the office walls. Businesses require video conferencing ability via a reliable web or browser-based conferencing client. In such cases, the right VCaaS provider is one who can provide high quality video services without overtaxing Internet bandwidth.
5. Trials
It’s important to choose a service provider that offers a free trial period so you can decide whether you would like to go ahead with the service. This testing period is useful to see if the service product is able to meet all your needs. For instance, how well does it support all devices and networks? Does it connect seamlessly via different networks from other locations? How is the video and audio quality? Does it offer file sharing? These are some of the factors you must test out before investing in a videoconferencing service. This is why you should choose a service provider who offers at least one trial session.
6. Company Fit
Lastly, in order to get the most out of video conferencing in the cloud, you have to get the end-user on board. Every organization will have its own wishes and needs that the service needs to answer to. When choosing VCaaS, you should take the end users’ requirements as a starting point. Analyze the collaboration structures and identify the needs within the company. This way you make sure you choose a service that supports daily work life and improves work efficiency.
Interested to know more? Download our Quick Guide on Cloud Video. We will give you an in depth look at the vital role that video conferencing and the cloud plays in your modern business operations.