For companies that need a top-down web conferencing system on an ongoing basis, webinar software provides a cost-effective and easy to implement and use solution. Top down in this case means that the organizer provides information to multiple recipients, much like a slide show presentation or conference call. Recipients can of course interject with a question or complete polls, etc.

This kind of product or service is quite easy to select from amongst all those available in the market, because there are not that many that can claim to be both reputed as well as affordable. Those that satisfy these basic requirements also need to be checked to see whether the features available are good enough. Here is a brief rundown of what’s needed in good webinar software.

The first and most important sticking point is the cost. Webinar software can be either a product sold for a price or a hosted service that requires a recurring fee. If the fee consists of high monthly payments or a usage-based charge, then it won’t be cost-effective. Considering that the main purpose is to save time and money by bringing together people in diverse locations, it doesn’t help if the product cost is high.

Also important is the ease of use and installation. If it is a web-based service, then there shouldn’t be any installation process because it will simply run in a browser. If it is a desktop based application, then it should be lightweight without any integration or connectivity problems.

Today’s webinar software usually includes advanced features like video streaming capability and desktop/application sharing between participants. This enables members of the group to demonstrate and work as a team, instead of simply communicating. It’s even better to have live video available via webcams, which makes the solution very useful.

An important aspect of any webinar software, is that it should be able to record the meeting. With businesses going paperless and all communication being done online, it’s vital that digital records be maintained. Each company has a protocol for recording its meetings, and the service or product chosen should likewise be able to do this as per the company’s requirements.

About the author: Ken Morrison can assist you find the right webinar software. For webinar software advice obtain his free tips on webinar software.