Zoom or Zoom Cloud Meeting is an interface that provides video call services over the Internet through mobile phones or computers. Its system works through the cloud and makes it easy to carry out video conferences, chat rooms, and audio calls and record these sessions while they are taking place.
Also, Zoom is available for different OS. of computers and smartphones. This application was created mainly for business use since its rooms have the possibility of hosting a huge group of people simultaneously and it offers different utilities that make it easier to control meetings.
It is possible to share digital files of any kind at the same time with the rest of the people, something that makes it easier to hold zoom meetings virtually. Zoom has a freeware version that can be used by anyone, however, it provides a sequence of complementary services in the form of a subscription that a company or group of people can pay for.
How does Zoom work?
The primary use of Zoom is given by companies or groups of people who need to hold video conferences where the participation of a huge group of people simultaneously is essential (we are talking about up to 1000 people at the same time), something that is impossible in similar interfaces. like Skype. In addition, given the different projects that Zoom Video Communications provides, this application is perfect for holding meetings in which it is necessary to communicate digital material with the rest of the individuals.
Characteristics
It is a free application that has several payment plans that increase its functions.
It works as a means of communication through the Internet.
It allows you to carry out chat, call, and video call sessions.
As for video conferences, it facilitates the participation of up to 500 people and up to 1000 viewers.
It provides utilities such as the use of screen sharing, a useful resource for exhibitions, seminars, and talks.
Advantages
Zoom has different features depending on the plan chosen by the individuals. Generally, it works as a cloud-based continuous-use interface that makes it easy to make video calls right away, whereas the main distinction is that Zoom makes it easy to record the talks or conferences that take place on it.
Meetings can be recorded
One of the main differences and virtues that Zoom gives compared to other similar interfaces, is the opportunity to record the talks carried out. This makes it easy to reproduce them the number of times a user wants, which is useful mostly for taking notes, remembering data, and other objectives.
Conferences can be scheduled
It makes it easier to hold future meetings. For this, through the interface, it is possible to choose a time and date, choose a header, and create a link that can be shared with the people who are going to be invited. Once the moment arrives, people will receive an alert in the form of a reminder.
You can have a virtual whiteboard
A Zoom utility is the alternative to making a virtual whiteboard that can be shared on the screen with the rest of the individuals. This makes it easier to write, draw or make explanations in a simpler and more practical way.
Cast screen
It is possible to transmit the screen while simultaneously transmitting the video captured by a webcam. In this way, they have the possibility of offering explanations or clarifying concerns while the rest of the competitors can see the issuer.
Some disadvantages of Zoom include:
Security: Zoom has faced security issues in the past, such as the potential for unauthorized call intrusions and the exposure of private data.
Reliability: Sometimes Zoom may have technical issues that affect call quality or cause the call to not go through at all.
Time limits: Free Zoom calls are limited to 40 minutes.
Limitations on the number of participants: Toll-free calls are limited to 100 participants.
Privacy concerns: In some cases, Zoom has allowed unauthorized participants to join calls and spy on the participants.
Zoom paid plans and their features:
Basic plan: This plan is free and allows meetings of up to 100 participants, with a maximum duration of 40 minutes per meeting. Furthermore, it provides basic features like screen sharing, chat, and meeting recording.
Pro Plan: This plan costs $14.99/month per host and allows meetings of up to 100 participants with unlimited duration. In addition, it offers additional features such as customization of the waiting room, role assignment in meetings, and use of the platform on mobile devices.
Business Plan: This plan costs $19.99/month per host and allows meetings of up to 300 participants with unlimited duration. In addition, it offers additional features such as user management, meeting analytics, and advanced security.
Enterprise Plan: This plan is personalized and adapts to the specific needs of each company. It offers additional features such as integration with third-party applications, prioritized support, and enterprise-grade security.
What integrations with other tools does Zoom allow?
Google Calendar Integration: Allows you to schedule and join meetings from Google Calendar.
Microsoft Outlook Integration – Allows you to schedule and join meetings from Microsoft Outlook.
Slack integration – Allows you to start and join meetings from within Slack.
Salesforce Integration – Allows you to start and join meetings from within Salesforce.
Canvas Integration – Allows you to start and join meetings from Canvas.
Workplace by Facebook integration – Allows you to start and join meetings from Workplace by Facebook.
Zoom Rooms Integration – Allows you to use conference room devices to start and join meetings.
Zoom Phone Integration: Allows you to make phone calls using Zoom.
Integration with time tracking tools like Toggl, Harvest, and RescueTime.