Desktop/Multimedia Teleconferencing takes advantage of voice, audio and graphical data sharing technologies to allow remote users to meet. Traditionally, these technologies have required powerful computers and expensive video equipment. However, with the increased power of the average desktop computer and the drop in price of video technologies, many more businesses are looking towards these technologies to handle a larger variety of their business needs. In addition, the software giant Microsoft has entered the arena with the software package NetMeeting, so the competition is heating up and the prices are coming down.
The International Teleconferencing Association, ITCA defines Desktop/Multimedia Teleconferencing as:
"Desktop, or Multimedia Teleconferencing tends to have two connotations. The accurate definition is an application where at least three teleconferencing tools are used together to appeal to a variety of human senses or perceptions. The users can select which combination of teleconference tools best suit the current meeting. Today, we are at the dawn of the use of desktop conferencing systems based on the ITU T.120 Standards.