The best platform for your session will depend on a number of factors. We therefore do not have a single recommended platform for delivering our live online sessions, and for our scheduled programmes of sessions should consider offering multiple instances of the same session through different platforms to accommodate all audiences.
Factors to consider include:
- Audience: Students are likely to be more familiar with Zoom, which is also the best platform for access from China. NHS staff can use Microsoft Teams, but it's possible other platforms are blocked.
- Accessibility: Microsoft Teams and Zoom have automatic captions. If considering an alternative platform you may wish to determine ahead of the event whether you have any attendees who require captions.
- Interactivity: All platforms include chat features and the ability to share your screen. Zoom includes a poll and whiteboard features. Polling is possible in Microsoft Teams by utilising Microsoft Forms.
- Control over participants' actions: Consider whether you want attendees to be able to have their microphones and cameras enabled.
- Personal preference and technical setup: Choosing a platform because of your personal preference is a valid reason. Additionally, some colleagues may have problems using certain platforms depending on their technical setup.
- Capacity: Microsoft Teams and Zoom have a maximum capacity of 300. For events of over 300 people, you can contact ISD to upgrade to a large meeting or to Microsoft Teams Live or Zoom webinar.
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