Conferencing makes use of video, audio, and web technologies to provide real time interaction between participants in different locations.
Audio conferencing
Audio conferencing services allow individuals to communicate and collaborate with each other.
Audio conferencing services from MSU Telecommunications are offered in two different forms:
- Up to a 6-party conference initiated from an Avaya PBX telephone
- The “Meet Now” feature of Microsoft Teams (an app included in the Spartan 365 suite)
Integrated systems in physical spaces
Integrated systems include professional conferencing equipment designed for high-quality connections. These systems can connect to multiple sites and allow users to share video from multimedia sources, PowerPoint slides, and documents.
Examples of integrated system facilities at MSU include production classrooms and conference room systems. Examples of some integrated systems include Polycom, Sony, and Lifesize.
Some MSU facilities with integrated conferencing systems are managed by specific colleges and departments for use by those colleges and others are available to any MSU department.
Applications for computers and mobile devices
There are also conferencing applications that operate on personal computers and mobile devices. Depending on the device, some additional equipment may be needed including a webcam and microphone.
Some applications offer only video and audio connections while others have more features. Some examples of conferencing applications include Google Hangouts and Zoom.
Conferencing applications are a good fit for small meetings with fewer requirements and participants.
Zoom web conferencing
Zoom is a cloud-based platform for video and audio conferencing, mobile collaboration, and simple online meetings.
Pro account access is available at no charge for MSU faculty, staff, and students when they log into MSU Zoom using their NetID and password.
Enhanced licenses can be purchased through the MSU Technology Store.
