Latency Issues

The Problem of Latency

Latency, defined as "Time it takes for a request to go from the client to the server and back to the client." — A brief definition of the problem of latency.

Synchronized activity over the internet – singing or performing music together, for example – is thwarted by sound lags inherent in the transmission of audio information. Latency (lag) issues are caused by the real time it takes for a packet of digital information to travel from a source to its recipient and back again. No one has yet devised a perfect solution to the problem, but guidance exists that helps to alleviate the obstacles in online ensemble communication. For our program, latency issues adversely affect simultaneous speech; group singing along to a music video projected from one computer source; or two or more people performing music together from different locations on the internet. Attempts to find solutions are ongoing, and progress in the area will benefit everyone involved in online participatory activities.

Our program takes advantage of the practical and efficient advice shared by James Sills of “The Sofa Singers.” Until a better alternative comes along, if a group wants to sing together, singers will be muted so they will hear only the musical output from the moderator and their own voice. At other times, channels will open so that people can enjoy communicating with one another.

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