Video conferencing software is a technology that allows for live virtual meetings with audio and video over the internet. It enables people to have face-to-face connections, regardless of where they’re physically located. Video conferencing tools eliminate the need for in-person attendance, which is especially convenient when users live in different cities or countries. Uses for video conferencing include negotiating business deals, holding client meetings, interviewing job candidates, teaching online seminars, or even chatting with friends and family.

Benefits of video conferencing software include the following: 

1. Cost Savings — Video conferencing software makes it possible for people to communicate with each other in real-time, regardless of their physical location. This fosters faster decision-making and teamwork, since team members can communicate in a visual manner and transmit their ideas and reactions directly. 
2. Efficient Communication & Teamwork — Companies can save on travel and accommodation costs that would otherwise be necessary for in-person meetings. It also saves time, because employees no longer need to travel between locations and can therefore manage their time more efficiently. ‍
3. Flexibility — Team members can join meetings from any location, even from their own home. This supports hybrid and remote work, which is becoming more commonplace in modern working environments. Companies can therefore attract a broader range of talent, since employees have the flexibility to work from anywhere.

Common features of video conferencing software include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• HD Video Quality – High-definition video for clear and professional visuals.
• Audio Conferencing – Clear audio communication, with options for voice clarity and noise suppression.
• Screen Sharing – Allows participants to share their screens to present documents and presentations.
• Recording Capabilities – Provides the ability to record meetings for future reference or sharing with absent participants.
• Chat Functionality – Includes a text chat feature for sharing quick messages during meetings.
• Virtual Backgrounds – Offers options for participants to use custom backgrounds, creating more privacy and professionalism.
• Breakout Rooms – Allows for smaller group discussions within a larger meeting. 
• Participant Management – Provides controls for managing participants (e.g. muting, removing, or spotlighting speakers).‍
• Mobile Access – Offers apps for smartphones and tablets.

Many video conferencing platforms offer free plans, with basic video conferencing capabilities and limits on the number of participants and duration of meetings. For small teams wanting more functionality, expect to pay around $10 to $15 per user / month. If you need more advanced features and larger meeting capacities, higher costs in the $20 to $25 user / month range might be justified.