H.323 Video Conferencing
These GSBS classrooms are equipped with video conference equipment using the H.323 standard and Internet Protocol (IP) through the MD Anderson Telehealth Operations Center. Connections can be made to any location with equipment also using the H.323 standard. Regular connections are made between GSBS and MD Anderson Science Park.Considerations for planning your video conference meeting.
- You are responsible for technical and scheduling arrangements at each participating site. For GSBS, follow the Classroom Reservation process. For Science Park, Contact Brian Cunningham with Technical Services. For other participating sites, identify their room scheduling process as soon as possible.
- At least a 2 business day lead time is required prior to your meeting date.
- GSBS does not charge a fee for video conferencing but other sites may, especially cancellation fees.
- A 30 minute prep and connection time is required prior to your start time. Please include this when making your room reservations.
- GSBS will provide video conference setup. If connecting to a participating site for the first time, we recommend a test connection that will require you to make an additional room reservation request.
- Video conference operational hours are Mondays through Fridays, 8 am to 5 pm Central Standard Time.
- Distribute presentation files and documents to all participants beforehand in the event that connection quality might degrade during the meeting.
Considerations for taking courses via video conference.
- Plan ahead. Courses available for video conference each semester depends on classroom equipment, registered students at each site and the course coordinator.
- Identify the courses typically offered each semester and inform GSBS Academic Affairs of your intent to take a course via video conference. At Science Park, also inform Becky Brooks. It will be necessary to obtain the approval of the course coordinator.
- Once cleared by GSBS Academic Affairs, register for the course within the regular registration period NOT during the late registration period.
Internet Collaboration Tools
These are client programs available on multiple platforms like Windows, OS X, iOS and Android that provide instant messaging, desktop sharing and video conferencing. While H.323 video conferencing is our preferred and consistent method of connection, internet collaboration tools do not depend on reserving specifically equipped rooms at each participating site. Highly dependent upon the stability and quality of the each participants' internet connection, especially if they are using retail internet providers.
You will need: your own account, a webcam and microphone, the latest versions of each client, a consistent internet connection and familiarity with each client's interface.
To test any of these tools, please contact gsbs.support@uth.tmc.edu to exchange contact information. If you wish to use any of these tools for your meetings, we recommend that you have had a successful test connection with each of your participants beforehand.
Microsoft Lync. Typically already installed with Microsoft Office on institutionally owned computers. For personal computers, comes with Microsoft Office or download from Microsoft Download Center. Our preferred method as it integrates with Outlook and Exchange at UTHealth and MD Anderson. Login with your institutional email account credentials.
Meet@UTHealth. Managed by UTHealth Interactive Video Services and provided to specific UTHealth personnel. You may be asked to participate in Meet@UTHealth meetings when collaborating with UTHealth personnel.
Skype. Peer to Peer and works through outside internet connections. Login with your own account. Enterprise network security protocols may adversely affect call quality. Your mileage may vary and it is highly recommended you test with each participant beforehand.