The 6 ultimate criteria to consider when choosing a webinar platform.

The choice of a videoconferencing platform is an extremely crucial task when organizing a virtual event. No matter what kind of event you're planning, whether it's a webinar, a remote meeting, an online training or a virtual concert, the success of your event depends heavily on the quality and performance of the video tool you use. Due to the increasing number of this type of platform on the market, choosing the right one can be challenging. The purpose of this article is to provide you with the 6 essential criteria to consider when selecting the right platform to efficiently broadcast your content.

1. Participant numbers and session duration

There may be limitations on the number of participants and the length of a presentation on some platforms. Zoom, for example, limits group sessions to 40 minutes and 100 participants.

If you are planning an event for large groups, be sure to check these criteria. You will avoid being interrupted during a meeting or having some people disconnect.

2. An easy-to-use tool

Platform access must be quick and easy. Downloading an additional app or installing software can be a hassle when accessing meetings. A platform should be able to be accessed directly via a browser, if at all possible. Also, choose a tool that doesn't require registration or account creation.

It should also be easy for participants to log in from anywhere. Ensure that the platform can be accessed from a computer, tablet, and smartphone.

Choosing an easy-to-use solution will allow you to give a smooth presentation and make your task easier. Hosts and participants in remote events can benefit from an intuitive videoconferencing platform

3. Tools for interaction and communication

Interactivity is essential for virtual events. Success depends on this. Engaging the audience is difficult when everyone is staring at their screens. It is imperative to choose a platform that allows not only interactivity with the audience but also interactivity between participants. Here are a few essential options for an optimal experience:

• A live chat module that allows participants to intervene by writing via instant messaging.
• A touch-screen interactive board where everyone can annotate information.
• Real-time polling tool to collect guests' opinions.
• Sub-rooms for group workshops.
• The ability to share files instead of sending and downloading them by email.
• Demonstrations or presentations of prepared documents using screen sharing.

4. Other features of a video conferencing solution

Your event can be greatly facilitated by a few practical options. Here are a few examples:

• Having the ability to record the video is very useful for marketing purposes or for sharing the recording with people who are not present;
• A calendar that allows the organizer to plan his events;
• Sending invitations directly from the platform to the host;
• Tools for collecting and analyzing event statistics. Your next presentation should be better than the last!

5. The platform's pricing

There are many free video conferencing platforms available. These can be very suitable for your event, depending on its nature. For most of these tools, the number of participants and meeting time are limited and upgrading to the paid version is required. From one solution to another, prices vary quite a bit.

Initially interesting tools aren't necessarily interesting over time. In order to access the most useful features, you may have to pay a high price or upgrade each time.

Make a detailed comparison based on your needs before making a buying decision.

6. Platform security and confidentiality

In online meeting rooms, video conferencing tools usually feature end-to-end encryption to ensure privacy. Nevertheless, in the era of data leaks and cyberattacks, ask about encryption and choose a solution that prioritizes security. Particularly if your activities on the platform are sensitive or confidential.

There is often controversy surrounding Zoom's security. A number of major security flaws have been found that have allowed malicious people to remotely take control of computers without their victims' knowledge.

Additionally, it can be about securing meeting access. What is the access method for participants? Is there a password after creating an account? Is there a single login link for everyone? In order to log in, does the host have to approve it? Assigning a one-time password is obviously more secure than allowing everyone access via a link. You can decide based on the type of event. Also, we don't want to make the registration and login process too complicated.

Having all the information in hand, you can properly assess the different tools available. It has never been easier to choose a video conferencing platform. Lemon is the platform you need if you need a powerful and complete solution. This tool allows you to broadcast interactive content. Lemon helps you manage your events efficiently and effectively with features like integrated payments, ticket management, calendars, document sharing, and more. Start testing the tool for free by signing up.

👉 Try Lemon for free!