Video Conferencing & Virtual Meetings to Make 2 Million Airline Seats Vacant

The research firm Gartner has predicted that video conferencing and virtual meetings are going to make 2 million airline seats vacant on a yearly basis, by 2012. Bad news for airlines as this translates to a revenue drop of $3.5 billion. When virtual link-ups such as video conferencing that cost less than an airline trip and which enable face-to-face, real-time collaboration are available, this development is only natural.

Virtual Travel - More Attractive than Airline Travel

Video conferencing is travel of a different kind - one without movement. While the global population that uses this solution is rejoicing over the benefits, airlines are probably moping over a reduction in customers for business class travel. What it means is that business persons accustomed to the convenience of video conferencing will no longer be enticed by cocktail bars, superior quality champagne, private suites, comfortable seats, WiFi and exceptional in-flight entertainment. Rather, these persons would be happier when they are able to do away with the stresses and delays associated with travel, and the loss of valuable work and family time.

Looks like airlines have a tough time ahead, and video conferencing technology isn’t the only reason, the recession and high fuel prices are already doing their bit.

Skeptics Would do Well to Think Again

Those skeptical about video conferencing might want to consider this: video conferencing solutions are more sophisticated than ever before. Hazy images, dropped connections, freeze frames, and out of sync video and audio are history. Now we have high-definition, true-to-life video and crisp sound quality from well-known brands such as TANDBERG. Accurate sound reproduction and first-class screens are other features.

The entire experience afforded is so real. From the high resolution that enables you to see even subtle facial expressions and body movements to the superior image quality that makes you and your fellow participants feel you’re in the same room together, it is hardly different from a real face-to-face meeting.

As Gartner stated: "Companies should put aside previous prejudices and bad memories of older videoconferencing services and seriously investigate these new technologies." When video conferencing can help cut operating costs and keep a greater number of employees happier and in the office, why think of traveling?

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