Migrating to Video Over IP

Many LAN Managers believe a high-bandwidth application like video conferencing should not run on the same network as data and voice. However, Video over IP is a viable option that can reduce costs, simplify complex technology, and provide more functional and flexible collaboration than an ISDN-based solution.

There are many reasons why you might want to consider migrating your current ISDN based videoconferencing solution to Video over IP, but the most compelling reason is the need to reduce the costs associated with ISDN services. For organizations where videoconferencing is used often, the cost of ISDN video calls alone can be staggering -- an average of $45-$50 per hour, and even higher for high-resolution connections. When you add the costs of supporting an ISDN network in addition to the IP-based LAN used for your data, Video over IP becomes an extremely attractive option. Using an IP network can virtually eliminate the costs associated with calls made within the network, as well as streamline support organizations.

Video over IP also provides more flexibility than the room-based systems commonly associated with ISDN installations. IP video technology is well-suited to desktop videoconferencing, and provides support for a host of collaborative applications currently impractical or too cumbersome to use with a room system. Although desktop video could be deployed using ISDN technologies, a LAN already touches each end-point in the organization, and is therefore a more realistic and less expensive alternative. IP networks can also combine multiple traffic types (voice, video and data), making it easier to incorporate many collaborative solutions into one seamless communications system.

However, migrating from ISDN to IP (or even a brand new IP installation) could cause more problems than it solves, if done improperly. Before attempting to deploy Video over IP, you want to find a partner well versed in both ISDN and IP technologies. Videoconferencing is a unique application that requires uncommon skill and experience, so a migration of this type should employ a consultant who specializes in visual communications. IP and ISDN each present its own set of challenges and skill level requirements, and a consultant with detailed knowledge and experience with both H.320 videoconferencing and IP networking can make the transition virtually seamless.

To find out more about why you should start thinking about IP videoconferencing or how the right consultants can make the move to IP easier, call us at 866-836-8463 or download our Migrating to IP white paper.

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