Leadership meeting video conference recommendations? Zoom, Webex, Teams, Hangouts, Connect ??

[davesudweeks]

I'm told you can use Zoom with a browser window. The meeting invite includes a link to the meeting online (which opens in a browser) for those who don't have a phone. However, I tried to join an EQ Presidency meeting Saturday evening with my phone and when I clicked on the link the phone insisted on installing an app to continue. So it might be device dependent on which mode it leads you to. I don't have any need to set up zoom meetings so I have not investigated their service.

My wife uses her laptop for her Stake Primary Presidency Zoom meetings and she uses the browser interface only. In her last meeting she received the expected 40-minute time-out warning at about 35 minutes, but they went about 10 minutes over without being disconnected. She is using a free (not educational) account.

[Mikerowaved]

...she received the expected 40-minute time-out warning at about 35 minutes, but they went about 10 minutes over without being disconnected.

Zoom is one of several major video conferencing companies that are are offering their premium services for free in affected areas. [One of many sources.]

[lajackson]

Is it possible to use Zoom without downloading an app?

Not really. You can download an add-on to your browser and work Zoom that way, but the actual program works better. Otherwise, you need to download either the program (PC/laptop) or the app (iOS/Android phone).

To originate a meeting you need to have the software and (access to) an account. To participate, you do not need an account. You just need the software and a link. The host can also require a password.

If you do not have the program or the app, you should automatically get a download invite the first time you try to participate in a meeting. Most other video conferencing programs work the same way.

[RooneyC]

I moved my domain to google about a year ago. I use gsuite to host email on my family on it. It actually works really well. My kids have emails and google docs. I’m able to have DLP, antivirus, and interestingly enough mdm (mobile device management ) - I used the hangouts/meet that comes with my subscription to host a meeting for the ward. I set up the meeting and sent the link to bishop and eq president. They sent it out to the rest of the ward. We had 100 video connections, and 10 dial in. Not a single issue. I monitored the meeting and muted folks that had too much echo. Also it was nice using the closed caption capability. I had the call up for about 3 hours so folks could chat in general. My subscription for 6 accounts is 36 bucks a month. I’m seriously thinking about getting a subscription for stake and creating accounts. I’d like to get emails from the ward leadership that is standardized instead of the EQ president emails coming in from missionary_bean_7765@gmail.com - having video conferencing and an effective way to collaborate and store data would just be icing on the cake.

[jwfranks]

We have been using zoom for several weeks. I'm experienced in all the major conferencing tools. I went with zoom primarily for the phone option. Members do not have to install the app, have a computer, or internet at all. They are able to call in and join which is useful for our older members. Although interesting, we only have a few that call in each week and most of the older members have the app figures out..

[SmithonVI]

We have been using Zoom in our stake since the church announced the demise of PVC. Zoom has worked very well for us. Now, with all the recent uproar over security concerns, I'm wondering if you have any comments. We have started using random ID and passwords, enabled the waiting room feature, and lock the meeting once everyone has been admitted - no problems so far.

[russellhltn]

In a email sent to STS on April 1st, the following were suggested:

• Google Hangouts or Google Hangouts Meet
• Zoom
• Webex
• WhatsApp
• Facebook Messenger
• Skype

[russellhltn]

Just got an email from the church. A few points:

The church is encouraging use of free videoconferencing solutions that do not add cost to the church. Employer's accounts can be used as long as the employer has given permission. Keep in mind, the employer's IT admins would have access to the meetings.

But in some cases, the free options may not be enough. In that case, the leader can apply for a G Suite account though the church. Only one person needs to have an account to host a meeting. The time and number of participants is unlimited.

[Mikerowaved]

In an email dated April 16, the church has extended their Google Enterprise G-Suite account to stake and ward leaders for the purpose of conducting meetings and interviews. This level of Google Meet allows for 250 audio and/or video participants. This for those without access to Zoom or other video-conferencing tools. The invitation is extended to those with the following callings:

• Stake presidency, stake high councilor, stake organization presidency, stake technology specialist, and secretaries and clerks where applicable
• Bishopric, ward organization presidency, ward mission leader, ward temple and family history leader, and secretaries and clerks where applicable

[Edit: Just saw your post russellhltn that describes the same thing.]

[russellhltn]

I think it's worth adding:

Although the Church enables setup of the new account, it does not provide ongoing support for G Suite or Google Meet. Instead, the leader would need to rely on Google’s public help resources.

The public price of this is $25/month per leader account. It's possible the church is getting a discount, but I can understand why they're pushing alternatives first.