13. Disadvantages of video conferencing

- Everyone who is going to 'attend' the meeting needs access to suitable hardware and software. This can be expensive and can take a while to set up.

- A very reliable, fast data link is needed. Many companies hire a connection specifically to allow video conferences to take place

- Even with a fast connection, there might be a slight delay between responses.

- If the hardware breaks down for any of the participants, they cannot 'attend' the meeting

- People could be in different time zones around the world. This might mean that some people have to stay up through the night in order to 'attend' the meeting.

- The video camera might not be able to see all parts of the room at the same time. Some people might not be easy to 'see' at the meeting.

- There is no substitute for a face-to-face meeting.