For years now we've not had to be in the same room as our peers; webinars make it easy for us to exchange ideas with experts on the other side of the world, but, with this network of intellectual exchange comes a few potential problems. Let's take a look at some of the pitfalls of online demos and how to avoid them or at least manage them.
Take a look at the four most common pitfalls of online demonstrations.
While technology is generally interchangeable, online demos can easily misrepresent the simplicity and usability of a system; ultimately defeating the end goal. While the person giving the demo is familiar with the system, those taking part from elsewhere might miss a few valuable points.
Unlike participants in a physical space, exchanging ideas and interacting with one another; online sessions don't often allow for as much spontaneous interaction and as such certain aspects are often left out of the discussion. The reason for this, in most cases, is that online demos are measured absolutely in terms of timing and don't allow for more lateral discussion.
While design, in most cases anyway, is a universal entity and most people can appreciate attractiveness, the look and feel of a presentation - believe it - influences how people perceive anything that falls within that framework; and with regards to the actual presentation, the presenter can also influence understanding by following what he/she deems a logical course, but we all know this is a very personal aspect.
Lastly and perhaps most obviously, is the matter of system performance. Always bear in mind that different regions have access to varied levels of technology and this should be anticipated before-hand, to avoid disappointment.
While there are many potential problems we could encounter in delivering online demonstrations, the above-mentioned are both the most common as well as the easiest to avoid or manage. The key word in avoiding mishaps here is clear communication and pre-demonstration engagement. As with any form of education or exchange of ideas; the purpose, platform, expected performance, and minimum requirements must be made clear.
Online demos are the basis on which we share ideas globally and, despite the pitfalls, we have the opportunity to take advantage of this worldwide classroom and strengthen our multinational networks.
