International audio conferencing, also called teleconferencing or con-call, is a means by which two or more people can speak with each other across different countries or continents.
More often than not, the audio conferencing involves a video feed so that the participants are able to see each other as they communicate. There are also instances when the con-call makes use of personal computers so that the different participants are able to work using software or share a document at the same time. This means that people can make presentations using the con- call and all the participants can view the presentation on their screens at the same time. Digital writing boards with special pens allow the users to make diagrams, draw pictures, or write notes.
There are many benefits that can be derived from using international audio conferencing. For one, the participants need not take time away from their workplace to travel long distances just to be able to attend meetings. This means that businesses can save money that would otherwise be spent getting tickets, hiring vehicles, paying for hotel accommodations, per diem expenses and the opportunity costs that are incurred when an opportunity is lost due to an employee being held up by an unexpected delay.
A teleconference is also easy to set-up and a meeting can happen within a short period of time. This means there is no need to lose the man hours spent organizing meetings that require having employees travel.
An audio con-call can make use of two types of tools for oral communication. It can make use of a computer telephone or a regular telephone. With the use of a regular telephone, participants in the teleconference needs to dial in and usually makes use of a passcode that allows the caller to be added to the conversation.
When using computers, software called Voice over Internet Protocol or VoIP is required. Users then make use of a headset with a microphone which is attached to the computer which enables the users to hear and speak with each other. This technology makes conference calls at a fraction of the cost it takes when making use of regular telephones.
Another very important benefit of a conference call is that it helps keep communication lines open for everyone. When there are instances where a problem needs to be solved immediately, a con-call can be arranged within minutes.
