Web Conferencing Possibilities

The other day at work someone was talking about "skyping." I had a momentary personal giggle moment because using Skype has now become a verb. But, aside from my personal giggle moment, they were complaining about the connection on Skype. How the mouth would be moving but nothing was coming out. Similar to a 1960's Godzilla movie.

I explained that while Elluminate Live! did not provide the best picture, it did allow for a more synchronous experience and they could have three people use it for free. Particularly helpful with a family where you have children scattered to the winds. Although that is certainly not the optimum way to use the software, it is an option.

I could see using the software on a grander scale than just three people for free. Within my union, there is a hierarchy to follow: International (or Grand Lodge), District Lodge, Local Lodge and finally worksite. I could see a way to bring our union closer together by using this software.

For example, my contract becomes amendable on October 31st of 2012. Unfortunately, not all the stewards are able to make it to a strategic planning session or once the contract is ratified the inability to get to the contract explanation meeting. Having an Elluminate session would enable everyone to be on the same page (literally). The negotiators would be able to moderate the session, show a power point and even take a poll on whether something is "important." Most Local Lodge offices have internet access and having a camera is not a requirement. It would be nice, but certainly not required. They would be able to record the session and make it available for anyone not able to make the time slot set.

For an educational setting, I could see it used for online classes and even a way to bring other locations within the union together. The possibilities are endless. I'm looking forward to presenting some ideas to my District and moving the movement forward!!