REDUCING SETUP TIME FOR ONLINE MEETINGS

Smart overview of the Invention

An online meeting system facilitates user connection to meetings upon receiving a request to start or join. The process includes displaying a pre-meeting user interface (UI) that features controls for transmitting audio and/or video data. Before users activate these controls, connection parameters are shared with the online meeting service to prepare the meeting environment, thus reducing perceived setup time.

Challenges with Current Online Meeting Technologies

As remote work becomes more prevalent, the demand for efficient online meetings has increased. Users often experience frustrating wait times ranging from three to twenty seconds when joining meetings. During this delay, users can see and hear participants but cannot communicate, which heightens their frustration. This highlights a pressing need for systems that minimize setup time for online meetings.

System Functionality

The proposed online meeting system includes a processor and machine-readable instructions that manage user requests to join meetings. Upon receiving a request, the system displays a pre-meeting UI where users can configure their settings. Concurrently, connection parameters are exchanged with the online meeting service to streamline the connection process before the user activates their audio or video transmission controls.

Method of Establishing Online Meetings

The method involves several steps: receiving a user request, displaying the pre-meeting UI, and exchanging connection parameters prior to user control activation. This sequence ensures that by the time users are ready to join the meeting, the necessary data channels are already established, enhancing their experience by minimizing delays.

Technical Benefits of the Proposed Solution

By altering the startup sequence of online meetings, users can engage with the service more efficiently. The system allows for data channel establishment during user interaction with settings, effectively reducing perceived wait times and mitigating frustration associated with traditional online meeting setups. This approach fosters smoother transitions into meetings, ultimately enhancing user satisfaction.