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We compared GoToMeeting vs Adobe Connect with our AR Appraisal Rankings® method
Our Choice: GoToMeeting
- GoToMeeting
- Adobe Connect
Why?: GoToMeeting offers numerous advanced feature, yet very simple and easy-to-use.
Video conferencing software is all about saving time and money. Rather than having to spend cash to attend and host meetings in person, this software enables you to do it all in the virtual world. When considering such software, it is important to consider the number of participants supported, the level of technical support available and the overall cost of the service. Here, you’ll find that GoToMeeting beats Adobe Connect in several of these key areas.
GoToMeeting from Citrix – Connectivity Software
GoToMeeting is one of the most popular connectivity software suites available for businesses. It allows users to collaborate in an online environment, to make use of VoIP technology, works with Macs and PCs, offers a full free trial and more.
GoToMeeting offers numerous other advantages for users, as well. For instance, it allows meeting attendees to download the software without purchasing a monthly subscription (the download is fast and simple, too), as well as providing them the ability to sign up for a meeting with just a password and username to create an account.
In addition, the software offers the ability to share the mouse and keyboard of a particular computer to meeting participants, integrate Lotus Notes and MS Outlook information, and allows the meeting to be recorded directly to a desktop computer for future playback and use. This integration allows users to immediately access all manner of required information within seconds and adds to the overall value of the package.
Pros:
Cons:
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Monthly or annual subscription can be pricey for some users
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Requires Admin rights to install
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Little to no video support
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No whiteboard function
Adobe Connect – Connectivity and Meeting Software
Adobe Connect is an offering from the well-known developer that brought you such things as Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop and tons of other top programs. How does Adobe Connect stack up against the likes of GoToMeeting?
Adobe Connect brings Flash into the mix, allowing for numerous innovations. It also supports web cams and works with both PCs and Macs. It also works through either Adobe Reader (8.0) or through Microsoft Office. In addition, the meeting host can upgrade meeting members to presenter status and provide them with control directly from his or her computer.
However, Adobe Connect does not have a record feature (for that, you must move up to Adobe Connect Pro) and the sharing feature is difficult to use, as well. Finally, it is very difficult to operate and manage multiple windows without obscuring the view of participants, especially if only one monitor is used on the hosting end.
Pros:
Cons:
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Does not feature a session recording tool
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The program can be very difficult to use
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Managing multiple windows is quite difficult, without blocking the view of meeting participants
The obvious winner in this contest is GoToMeeting. While Adobe Connect has considerable potential, it falls far short of what is should be capable of producing. However, GoToMeeting offers numerous advanced features, simple, easy-to-use controls and provides decent support, as well. When contrasted against the features (and shortcomings) of Adobe Connect, it’s pretty simple to see why GoToMeeting ranks so highly with businesses and entrepreneurs in need of better connectivity.
What Do Others Think?
Most users find that the program is very easy to use, as well as providing them with high quality tools and functionality. Setup is simple and easy, so long as you have administrative rights on the computer in question. Sharing is simple and effective, giving everyone the opportunity to get the most out of the meeting.
In addition, users appreciate the low price of the application, even with the recurring subscription costs. According to ZDNet, GoToMeeting is a top-rated conferencing program ideal for small to large businesses in need of a means of reducing meeting-related travel costs. Even the lack of video support does not detract terribly from this software’s value to businesses and entrepreneurs.
PCMag.com – “Citrix's GoToMeeting Corporate is by far the most polished of all the applications we evaluated.”
ZDNet.com – “Citrix's GoToMeeting is a first-rate basic Web conferencing program that's priced right for small to large businesses hoping to minimize travel costs.”
TopTenReviews.com – “Powerful yet simple, expansive yet concise, TopTenREVIEWS’ Silver Award winner GoToMeeting is a versatile web conferencing program that brings a no-frills functionality without skimping on program quality and performance.”
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