Video Teleconferencing Services

Video Teleconferencing Services (VTS) enable participants in two or more geographically dispersed locations to simulate in-person meetings efficiently and cost-effectively. For customers who wish to minimize expenses, VTS allows participation in virtual” meetings, distance learning, remote testimony, and other collaborative applications. Additionally, VTS has evolved into a critical and growing real-time communications environment for federal customers.

Here are some of the reasons our customers benefit from using Verizon VTS:

• Cost Efficiencies. VTS enable Verizon customers to minimize the travel and other expenses of in-person meetings by efficiently supporting virtual meetings. With VTS, customers can run meetings that range in size from a small, impromptu two-person video conference to a major global, corporate event with thousands of participants. Verizon has configured the VTS platform to support up to 300 locations for an attended conference, and 48 locations for unattended meet me conferences. Verizon also offers instant video subscriptions for up to six locations per individual subscription.
• Integration of Legacy Systems. If customers have video end-points provided by different equipment manufacturers and/or network types, the Verizon solution enables them to continue to use what they have. VTS supports interconnectivity between different networks and equipment.

Verizon VTS offers a variety of features, including:

• Global Access. Verizon provides customers with a single point of contact for uniform quality and service throughout the world. For example, the Verizon global network and reservation system provides bridge control both locally and remotely. This enables users to schedule reservations easily, and access Verizon's worldwide video bridge anytime, anywhere.
• On Demand Provisioning. Verizon's provisions VTS network based on customer demand. To do this, Verizon gathers switch and reservations statistics daily to obtain a clear understanding of customer’s network utilization. Additionally, Verizon maintains bridge port capacity at a minimum level of 25% above anticipated call volume, which enables Verizon to handle unforeseen issues as well as provide time to ramp up for aggressive new growth.
• Transitioning to IP. Customers can migrate to IP-based service at their own pace, without service disruptions. Verizon's technology platform includes both switched digital and IP service. Verizon manages the integration via a global reservations and bridging platform management system, across a network of regional hubs. This added control enables Verizon to provide high quality and a logical basis for migrating to IP.
• Leading-Edge Standards and Features. The Verizon VTS solution includes the following standards and features:
  • Data conferencing services such as WebEx and Microsoft Live Meeting that customers can use in conjunction with a video conference.
  • Standards (T.120 with H.320) that are supported under the FTS2001 contract.
  • Reservation system that allows customers to schedule all “reserved” video conferences, on a single or recurring basis.
  • Identification methods such as an entry/exit tone or visual that customers can use to keep track of parties joining or leaving a conference.
• Multiple Viewing Options. VTS support a number of video teleconferencing viewing options, including one-way, two-way and lecture mode meetings. The voice activated viewing option is the standard default for multipoint calls, and all locations on the conference can view the site that is currently speaking. Once a different site begins to speak, the image switches to the new site. Also, all of these options support document sharing between participants.
• Multiple Access Options. VTS support several methods for accessing the platform, including:
  • Private IP Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) Network—Participants using video end-points supporting the H.323 or SIP IP protocols can access a VTS conference using our Private IP MPLS-based network.
  • Public Internet—Participants using video endpoints with H.323 or SIP IP protocol support can access a VTS conference using the public Internet.
  • Global ISDN Switched Digital Network—Participants using video end-points supporting the H.320 protocol can access a VTS conference using our ISDN switched digital network.
  • Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)—Participants without access to a video endpoint can still participate by using the audio add-on feature to access the VTS using their standard telephone over the PSTN.