WHICH ONLINE / TELE-CONFERENCING SYSTEM?

SUMMARY:  Tele-conferencing may be done via Google Hangouts or Skype. If using Google Hangouts, it can be streamed live to YouTube. Otherwise, it can be recorded using programs such as Zencastr.com. It can then be published as video on YouTube or just audio on platforms such as Itunes or Soundcloud.

DETAILS:  In terms of free, simple and user-friendly (but unsecure) conferencing platforms, it seems Google Hangouts is the leader … with many advantages over Skype.

Google Hangouts offers free video conferencing of up to 10 people, allows screen-sharing, document sharing, integration with Google apps and collaboration tools, live podcasting to YouTube, Google+ social media, free calls between users and free calls to ordinary phones in the US and Canada. You only need a Google ID. There is no need to download any apps.

One small advantage of Skype is that it offers direct social media integration with Facebook.

Please advise if you know any open-source, anonymous or secure platforms for tele-conferencing.

SEE ARTICLES:

12 Reasons to use Google Hangouts over Skype for Conference Calls  – LINK

Table of features – Google Hangouts v. Skype (see table half way down) – LINK

TIP FOR RADIO & TV BROADCASTS …

– To suit the conventions of radio and TV, replace the “group silence” with ambient music and a title card at the beginning and end of the session. (It is important to retain the concept of “empty time” to give both participants and the audience the opportunity to settle their minds. It will be an unusual effect, but memorable.)

– The choice of a signal for time warnings becomes quite critical, so as to not interfere with the audience experience. A very soft bell can be sounded (e.g. once each time at 30 seconds, 10 seconds and zero/cut-off). Or if using video / Skype conferencing, the facilitator can hold up an object or series of cards.

– Ideally, when a speaker reaches their cut-off time, it is a nice touch to have the audio gent;y fade down.

– The facilitator may need to call the name of the next speaker especially if it is an audio-only event.

– It is helpful to have a constant ID on screen when doing video (such as a “lower-third” text bar.)

ADD SHORT ROUNDS FOR INTRO AND WRAP UP

In addition to the three main rounds, it can be very useful to have a 1-minute per person “Intro Round” and “Wrap-Up”.

This eases people into the process where they can quickly introduce themselves and the topics they wish to cover. The “wrap up” round is specifically to reflect on the usefulness of the process and to put on the table amy final thoughts or proposals.

APP DEVELOPMENT

It may be worthwhile to create a smartphone / tablet app to assist the facilitator. Functions would include: time calculator, countdown timer sound options, teleconferencing and audio control, FAQs for conferencing, demo videos, training resources, etc. .... Make contact  if you can help with this.

THE SILENCE MIGHT BE THE MOST IMPORTANT THING 

For experienced groups, consider an extended group silence (e.g. 5+ mins). The greatest breakthroughs may happen here.

Encourage people to focus on relaxing their breathing. Let any thoughts just come and go. Keep returning attention to the breath.