News
Video conferencing enhances Group communication
Nowadays, we're constantly hearing about advanced technology that we can expect in the "future." Well, the future is now at Minnesota Mutual, and the Group division – using video conferencing to communicate with their remote sales office – is quickly discovering the benefits this new technology offers.
"Video conferencing enables us to accomplish things that just weren't possible using the telephone," says Amelia Lehnert, Group. "Ultimately, this technology investment will enhance our competitive advantage and help us improve service to clients."
Advanced technology that's easy to use
The high tech video conferencing equipment is easy to use. Users at each
location log on to a computer, and a camera sends "live action" video
to the computer screen at the remote site. In addition to seeing the person
or people on the other end, a document camera enables users to share and
review multiple documents simultaneously, or files too large to fax or
e-mail. Seeing who you are talking to – technology once limited to
the imagination – now enhances communication and improves the Company's
ability to work with branch offices and offsite business partners.
"Video conferencing brings an element of communication you just cannot get through a phone conversation," says Lisa Behrman, Group, who works in Group's Western regional office in Seattle. "Even though I am thousands of miles away, I have become familiar with the faces of the people with whom I work."
Telecommunications was instrumental in making video conferencing available for use at Minnesota Mutual. Jeanne Malone, Telecommunications, recommended incorporating this technology into the Group area, and in early January, 1998, Dorothy Demma, Telecommunications, coordinated setup of the equipment. By mid-February, Group was regularly video conferencing with its Western regional office in Seattle.
"Video conferencing has definite advantages for communicating over long distances," says Jeanne. "but we also anticipate using this technology within the home office to improve productivity and make communicating between our three buildings more convenient."
Advantages continue to emerge
The advantages of video conferencing include more than the convenience
of seeing the people with whom you are speaking. This new technology saves
time and money for Minnesota Mutual's associates, field force and business
partners. For example, Group has already used video conferencing to train
and prepare for customer sales presentations that included people from
remote locations. Reducing hotel, airline and other travel-related expenses,
video conferencing provides the means for conducting business and fostering
relationships without leaving the home office.
Video conferencing also improves our competitive advantage. Clients and prospects can be confident we use the latest technology available to provide high quality service.
"We continue discovering new ways to use video conferencing," says Amelia Lehnert, Group. "With this technology, the opportunity are endless."
