Webcast...Webinar...Web Meeting - Which is Which?
The other day I found myself wondering - what's the difference between a webinar and a webcast. I realized that web event terminology is not always clearly defined and can be cause for some confusion.
To clarify, I went to one of our enhanced services gurus, JR Ormsby. Here are his answers to my questions.
What is a web meeting?
A web meeting is an easy, on-demand way to add a visual component to your conference calls and simply requires the Internet. Features include desktop sharing, chat, file presentation and more.
What is a webinar?
A webinar allows presenters to "push" out content to their viewers via slides. Visual components are available through the Internet and audio is heard over the phone. Registration services including an automated confirmation are included. Enhanced options such as archive features are available, if needed.
What is a webcast?
A webcast is typically used for formal presentations or those that will reach a large audience. Streaming media technology is used to distribute static and interactive content from one source to viewers. The Internet is used to broadcast live or pre-recorded audio and/or video and users do not have to download a plug-in. Interactive features like polling and Q&A are available and archives are included. Presenters are able to engage the audience and gather real-time feedback.
Web conferencing is often used as a general term in reference to any or all of the above.
I hope this helps! Let me know what you think.