I blogged about open source web conferencing software a while back, but I wanted to share this significant update of the DimDim project. They have justed released version 4.0 of their software which adds significant functionality and makes DimDim a serious competitor to proprietary web conferencing solutions like Webex and GoToMeeting.
Because there are so many new features, I am only going to list my favorite ones below. For a full-list of features, go visit the DimDim website.
Recording and ArchivingWhat is the DimDim business model?
Any Dimdim session can be recorded and made available with the click of the mouse. Simply press the record button. You can email the recording URL or grab an embed code and paste it on your blog or website. You can even upload your recording to YouTube or Blip.tv.
Mac Screensharing
Mac users can share their desktop with other Mac (and even Windows) users - even if they aren’t using Dimdim. With Mac live screencasting you can share your desktop with anyone (it’s like iChat within a browser.)
Multiple Presenters
With a single click you can let any attendee share their desktop, whiteboard, webcam or documents. You can always grab back control of the meeting with another click.
Free Conference Calls
While we’ve improved our free VoIP microphone sharing, many users asked for a conference dial-in so more people can use their traditional phones. Now every user gets their own unlimited free conference call account.
Single click to Start or Join Meeting
Start or join a meeting in seconds with a single click. All you need is the meeting room name or the meeting URL.
Zero Install
You don’t have to install any software even to host a meeting, share your webcam, whiteboards or PPTs. The first time you choose to share your desktop you’ll be prompted to install our live screencasting software. It’s a tiny 1.8MB install and comes with an uninstaller if you ever want to remove it.
Easier to Use
Based on user feedback, we’ve removed confusing tabs, popups, dialog boxes and links. Now Dimdim is not only faster and more powerful - it’s actually even easier to use. A single click is all it takes to share your desktop, your whiteboard, or your PowerPoint presentation. Click to share. Click again to stop. The item being shared is clearly indicated with an eye icon and darker background.
DimDim is a great option for anyone who prefers to use open source software. The source code is always available on their website if you want to host your own web conferencing that includes all of the features of DimDim. They even offer a virtual appliance that can be used for a painless install of DimDim. If web-conferencing is a critical part of your business, you might consider purchasing services from DimDim.
For those who don't want to worry about installing and managing a DimDim server, DimDim offers several hosted options.
As you can see from this diagram, DimDim offers free hosted web conferencing for meetings with up to 20 users. If you need more web conferencing capabilities, they offer hosted services at very reasonable rates.
If anyone is using DimDim, please write a comment and share how it is working for you.
