We used a pair of VGo telepresence robots at our NYC and Philadelphia offices last year. Here's some video from the demo, just before we got them: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3tLLzOqKs4
I found the VGo to be a huge help when it came to being present in an office that I couldn't physically go to at the time. I was the head of a department that had groups in different cities, and it was a lot easier for me to feel I had a cohesive team when I was able to actually "be" there instead of just on Skype. It's hard to overstate the value of being able to go join a quick work session at the couches, or go looking for someone in an office where people are always busy and wandering around.
Of course, in a large company where not everyone is an early adopter, to put it politely, there's also an annoying side to having a telepresence robot. Some people spend more time focusing on the novelty than getting to work, and it can be a distraction. A lot of people weren't comfortable using the VGo themselves, even though it was available for anyone. There are definite social hurdles to overcome with some people.
I'd probably like the Double even more than the VGo, because it looks less intrusive, has a larger screen thanks to the iPad, and the adjustable height is a very big deal. I'm looking forward to having one in the future. Love the price, too.
Interesting perspective as the remote user, but I wonder how your employees felt about that setup. It was easier for you to feel you had a cohesive team, but did they feel more cohesive for having a robotic you floating around?
I found the VGo to be a huge help when it came to being present in an office that I couldn't physically go to at the time. I was the head of a department that had groups in different cities, and it was a lot easier for me to feel I had a cohesive team when I was able to actually "be" there instead of just on Skype. It's hard to overstate the value of being able to go join a quick work session at the couches, or go looking for someone in an office where people are always busy and wandering around.
Of course, in a large company where not everyone is an early adopter, to put it politely, there's also an annoying side to having a telepresence robot. Some people spend more time focusing on the novelty than getting to work, and it can be a distraction. A lot of people weren't comfortable using the VGo themselves, even though it was available for anyone. There are definite social hurdles to overcome with some people.
I'd probably like the Double even more than the VGo, because it looks less intrusive, has a larger screen thanks to the iPad, and the adjustable height is a very big deal. I'm looking forward to having one in the future. Love the price, too.