Now, new technology is bridging the gap between multithousand-dollar systems and tinny phone conversations. More budget-conscious types can probably get away with using a Web cam, which now costs less than a third of what it did three years ago. A Zaplet essentially allows users to log onto a Web page, send e-mail messages to others and then see all responses in real time on a discussion board. Applications include HR recruiting, sales forecasting or team decision-making. As computing speeds become faster and RAM cheaper, videoconferencing continues to increase in appeal, affordability and ease of use.
Prices can run high into the hundred thousands of dollars depending on the configuration.
But as always, the closer the virtual meeting gets to a real face to face, the more it's likely to cost.