Friday, November 2, 2012

Odd Online: Unusual Uses for Skype and VoIP

By Emily Collins


Online counselling via Skype is a seemingly-odd service gathering popularity for those having relationship problems. The service works in two ways. Counsellors who have offices based far away from patients or who are just starting out can used the VoIP system to work remotely. Secondly it is a perfect solution for couples that can no longer stand being in the same room together. It isn't just marriage counselling - everything from depression to anxiety can now be treated with online therapy. This may sound strange but for clients who have trouble leaving the house this is certainly a novel approach.

VoIP is best memorialised in the film American Pie, when a teenage boy accidentally broadcasts a comprising situation across the internet. The technology is often used for spying and surveillance and this isn't just localised to teenage boys. Middle class adults wanting to check up on their nannies, cleaners or pet-sitters are increasingly using the service in their own homes.

Want to make sure the kids are in bed at the right time, or that babysitter isn't taking advantage of your home? Skype is proving perfect. And though not recommended as full-time system, Skype has been used as a security device too.

Finding love online is one of the internet's most prolific pastimes and online dating has quickly caught up with the real thing, which could be good or bad depending on how you look at it. People are now even using Skype to conduct their dates, whether due to time constraints or shyness.

The biggest shift towards VoIP has now doubt been in businesses. More and more businesses are using the system for their network solutions as it lowers costs and improves network management. It used to be hard work to conduct business meetings and many involved time-consuming travel, overseas. Now meetings can just involve a simple click of the mouse. VoIP saves money, time and resources without compromising productivity.




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