You'd think I'd get tired of trying out new web conferencing services. The truth is, I am. Still, I get sucked in every once in a while, since none of the services I've used to date combines ease of use with the feature set that I need.
So what do I want? Ease of use on the participant side is absolutely critical. When a participant is having a problem joing the conference, it can be difficult to troubleshoot since the moderator can't see their screen. There's a lot to think about when conducting a web conference, so making things simple for the moderator is important, too. On top of that, I need to be able to record sessions easily so that those who couldn't make the call can play catch up at their convenience.
There are also things that I don't need. I don't need a whiteboard. I've never used it, and probably never will. I don't really need to upload a Powerpoint. I simply use desktop sharing, and I can always open a Word document or run a Powerpoint from my desktop, so who needs them built into the software? Of course, I don't mind if services offer more than I need, but the problem is that sometimes it's hard to dig through all the bells and whistles to find the basics.
At a recent regional ILTA meeting, someone recommended ReadyTalk. It took several months until I was motiviated to give it a try. When I did, I was pleasantly surprised. It offers no more and no less than what I need, it uses java so it doesn't require a download and installation, simplifying things greatly for participants, and the recording works like a charm, with just one click. It doesn't offer too much, or too little. It's just right And it's about time!
ReadyTalk - keep well clear!
Sound volume goes up and down, and the slides don't change for viewers. We tried real hard to get it to work but gave up.
It has always worked great for my company and when I do have problems I call the support line and they are very helpful. Did you try and call their support line for help?