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October 15, 2006
ReadyTalk Web Conferencing
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!
Comments
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.
Posted by: Clive Page at October 19, 2006 08:21 AM
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?
Posted by: Mike at November 6, 2006 01:05 PM
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