I have used various versions of Elluminate's online web conferencing service as a homeschool mom. We have used it quite a bit to run homeschool classes over the internet with students from all over the US and Canada. They have just released a free version that has some great tools that make for a perfect way to teach online art classes, conduct conferences with clients, and use as promotion opportunities for prospective clients.
They interviewed me last week (case study) about how I am using it for my artrist Open Studios and will soon be using it for online art classes. The interview hasn't hit their website yet, but I thought I would tell you all a bit about how you can put this to use.
The tools - audio:
The rooms have great audio communication tools built in. When participants have microphones all they have to do is push the talk button to get started communicating. Up to three can all talk at the same time when you set it to simultaneous talkers. Push the talk button again if you need privacy for a time - such as when your 5 year old interrupts you to tell you something embarrassing like he saw a bug in the sink. sigh. If a participant doesn't have a mic, no problem, there is also a built in text chat system.
The tools - whiteboard:
There is a whiteboard where you can communicate visually or upload a PowerPoint or Open Office Impress presentation to take your client through a very professional sales presentation or walk them through typical steps in the portrait process.
The tools - application sharing:
Here is my favorite and I think the most useful tool for artists. You can application share your Photoshop or any other software application so that they can see it live. This is great when you are teaching an art technique to students where they can see you demonstrate a technique in the digital software then you can turn over the application to them to give it a try while you coach. When you are working through the composition approval phase of a portrait. They will be able to see your ideas and give you live feedback. You can have several composition options set up on different layers and toggle them off and on for the client to see what they like. An impromptu suggestion can be tried right then and there too.
The Tool - webcam:
We all know what fun it is to have a webcam to see each other's messy hair and unkempt rooms. LOL. So long as you have the device set up and ready to go, you can use it in the Vroom. They are just getting ready to beta test a resolution enhancement to the webcam feature. I am wondering if live, online painting demos with traditional media can be done. I am anxious to give it a try.
The Tools - more:
It also has webpush where you can take your participants to the websites you are talking about. It has file sharing if files need to be transferred. You can even play flash and movie files.
I am having a blast with all the ways I can put this tool to use - and no I don't work for them nor get any perks. I am just a long-term fan.
You can learn more about the free Vroom and register for your own room at
http://www.elluminate.com/vroom/ . If you want to meet with me in mine to see how I am using it, just post that you are interested and we will set a time to meet and I will post the link.
No I don't work for them and get no perks for telling you about it. I have just been a long-term fan and see it will be really useful to other artists.
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