Desktop video teleconferencing and net-based training are the hottest technologies being implemented today for personnel training and development. All branches of the military services, Fortune 500 companies and Universities are attempting to find a means of implementing this form of training delivery. Each realizes the potential cost savings for organizations who successfully implement desktop: advanced training, stand down training, just-in-time training, performance support, access to on-line college degrees, etc.
This paper will explore technology for desktop video conferencing as a method of training delivery. Design considerations needed to support successful desktop video conferencing are explored. Topics include interoperability, security, modes of data transmission, network performance characteristics, and applicable standards needed for promotion of open systems. The work was conducted at NAWCTSD, where an Advanced Distributive Learning (ADL) laboratory facilitated the exploration of software, courseware, and hardware products needed to implement distributive learning across Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Internet and Intranet networks. The technical advantages of different delivery networks are explored, as well as the quality of the learning experience afforded by each of these options.