Zoom, Google, MS Teams_Which Video Software Should SMEs Choose

With the Delta variant spreading, some companies have delayed their back-to-office plans. It’s hard to say when the world will fully reopen, and for many employees, that means they will have to stay in their home offices for longer. So, if you aren't already familiar with video software, it’s about time!

Microsoft Teams

MS Teams is more than just a video chat software; it is a fully comprehensive platform for workplace collaboration. You can use the app for video-conferencing on both your computer and phone. You can also share documents, organize workrooms and forums, and integrate other Microsoft products such as Outlook or Sharepoint.

Zoom

Zoom has become tremendously popular since the start of the pandemic. Like MS Teams, it also offers file and screen sharing, but it doesn’t have the same collaboration functionalities that MS Teams has. Instead, the user interface specializes in video conferencing. However, a downside of Zoom is that the software has drawn criticism for security gaps and data privacy concerns in the past, although the company claims to have made changes.

Google Meet

Google Meet is a part of Google Suite. It has a convenient user interface, but it has fewer functionalities compared to Zoom or MS Teams. But you can use Google Meet with other Google Apps, which makes it a fully comprehensive workplace solution that can compete with MS Teams.

How to choose?

As always, it depends! If your organization is using Microsoft Suite, MS Teams is the way to go. Likewise, if you already use Google Suite, opt for Google Meet. Zoom is an excellent video software, but the free version limits calls to 40 minutes if the meeting has over 100 participants. Also, if you are already paying for Microsoft or Google Suite, why pay for Zoom? But if you only need video software and don’t use any of the other functionalities Microsoft or Google offers, you could opt for Zoom instead.

Sweet Tips from Ally:

Regardless of whatever software you decide to use, you must adhere to the following guidelines when you hold meetings online:

• Be on time
• Frame the camera properly
• Make sure all your devices and wifi are operational
• Pay attention to your sound
• Wear work-appropriate clothing