Zoom is an Internet based conferencing service. We use it for one-on-one support calls where a mentor or coach shares a remote client’s screen while helping them to learn something new. The coach may take over control of the remote computer to demonstrate how to do the task at hand.
Zoom is used more widely for online meetings. There are many advantages to meeting online.
- No travel time. You participate from home or event with your phone from wherever you are.
- Everyone gets at front row seat.
- Anything you can show on your computer screen can be shared with all.
- Whiteboard tools allow highlighting and drawing over your visuals.
- Using the cameras in participant’s computers, everyone can see each other making it more personal — more like actually meeting face-to-face.
On the technical side, the audio and video quality is generally better than Skype or Facetime. Most of us find the user interface easy and intuitive.
Video tutorials will familiarize you with the screens. I’m providing a few of them below that I’ve viewed myself and found helpful. Click anywhere on the screen while they are running to pause if the pace seems too fast. These first three very short videos are all you need to get started.
(double-click to view full screen — Key “Esc” to minimize)
(double-click to view full screen — Key “Esc” to minimize)
The Zoom.us system if very rich in features and advantages. To delve deeper and become more expert consider viewing the excellent series of videos prepared by the IT department at the University of Missouri.
(double-click to view full screen — Key “Esc” to minimize)
190417 RBShreve