Browser-based video: Imagine how the world of customer service, for example, could be revolutionised if a web user can initiate video chats via a browser and receive instant assistance. All this, with no plugins or software installations required! Emerging technology such as WebRTC (Web Real Time Communications) are seen as a potential solution to delivering browser-based video. However, it is as simple as it is complex. We’ll start to see WebRTC apps continue to emerge in 2015, and it is an exciting development for the mass adoption of video collaboration. However, the application is also at risk of reduced uptake if unable to interoperate with traditional collaboration environments and UC solutions, such as Microsoft Lync.  Therefore, any WebRTC deployment will need to consider vendors who offer easy integration and varied scope for users, whether via a browser on a desktop or tablet device.

Video-enabling workflows and business processes: Incorporating video as an essential part of workflow rather than considering it a separate business application is another trend which will increase in relevance. What this means is that people will take a new view on video collaboration – it becomes a natural extension of day-to-day business, rather than something which requires a conscious effort to utilise. Accessing real-time video, whether through IM or streaming video via a business application, should be the next step in intuitive face-to-face collaboration. Web-based healthcare solution, Eceptionist has already adopted this approach; the organisation supports telehealth, referrals, scheduling, and reporting by connecting with video collaboration infrastructure to manage all aspects of virtual collaboration. More organisations will choose to incorporate video into familiar business tools and enable tasks to be done better.

For me, video collaboration is a way of life. In my responsibility overseeing diverse markets and teams across Asia Pacific, time zones and arduous travel schedules hardly factor any more. What remains as priority is that I am connected to my teams and seeing the positive results a connected, collaborative workforce brings to an organisation. I firmly believe that employees do their best work, and are most productive when they are empowered to meet and collaborate face-to-face – and this of course impacts the bottom line. The progress in the industry has been encouraging so far and I am excited by the growing adoption of video by professionals in every industry. I look forward to being a key player in continuing to push the boundaries of human collaboration.  

By Geoff Thomas,
Read Also: Age Of Digital Business: 10 Top IT Skills In Demand
The 7 Best Companies for Gen-Y Workers