The practice of conducting business meetings, discussions, and training online has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, eliciting mixed reactions regarding its overall impact on society. While this trend is not without its distinct drawbacks, I firmly believe that its long-term benefits far outweigh any potential downsides.
On the negative side, people may encounter various difficulties during online events. Poor internet connectivity is one of the primary reasons some individuals dislike online meetings, as numerous factors can disrupt the entire session. For instance, during the quarantine period, when everyone was using the internet simultaneously, students and employees struggled to connect to Zoom servers, which were overloaded, causing significant problems for both companies and schools. Additionally, older individuals often lack familiarity with modern technologies such as smartphones and computers, further hindering their participation.
Despite these evident challenges, the constructive outcomes of this trend are considerably more profound. Online events offer numerous benefits, including saving both time and money. For example, if a company has employees located abroad who cannot physically convene at the same time and place, platforms like Zoom or Teams enable them to gather virtually. Furthermore, schools often find it challenging to cover all material during offline classes, so they utilize online sessions for students who missed classes or to extend lessons beyond the regular timetable.
In conclusion, although I acknowledge the drawbacks, I am convinced that the advantages of online meetings far exceed their disadvantages.