P-based videoconferencing enables companies to provide high-impact virtual communications in situations where personal contact would normally be beneficial, such as for executive communications, hiring interviews, employee performance reviews, and team project meetings. Cisco deploys approximately 800 IP videoconferencing endpoints worldwide with an average usage of 700,000 minutes per month. These videoconferencing endpoints comprise a mix of desktop units from vendors such as Tandberg, as well as room-based systems. In addition, Cisco adds video capability to traditional audio calls with the Cisco Unified Video Advantage application, which is based on the Cisco Unified Communications Manager (formerly Cisco CallManager). Gateways currently provide connectivity between the H.323 system and the Cisco Unified Video Advantage environment.

This best practices describes Cisco’s internal deployment of H.323-based IP videoconferencing. This information can help other companies that are planning to deploy large-scale, H.323-based IP videoconferencing realize return on investment (ROI) and other benefits.

This best practices covers the following topics:

  • Technology overview of products in a videoconferencing deployment
  • Planning and support needed to support global IP videoconferencing
  • Operations and support processes that support global IP videoconferencing
  • Facilities design required to ensure professional quality global IP videoconferencing