How Conference Moderation Works

What are web-based Moderator Controls and why would I use them?

Web-based Moderator Controls provide organizers with an online tool that allows them to see and manage their conference call in real-time. Features include:

  • Name, phone number and call entry time of each Participant
  • Control buttons for participant mute, unmute, and disconnect
  • Participant "ping" (audible tone sent to one caller)
  • Total call time since first caller entry
  • Online controls for:
    • Recording
    • Muting
    • Q&A
    • Conference locking

Moderator controls provide businesses with an extra level of caller information and control for security, cost control or conference call management. Many organizations use moderator controls to ensure they know who is on the call and to manage their participation at any given time. Some companies use Moderator Controls during mission critical conferences, such as a quarterly earnings review or board meetings when call security and management are essential. Many enterprise-level customers and tele-seminar businesses find the call duration tracking and online attendance reports critical for call management.

How are these different from the Touch Tone phone controls I normally use on an audio conference call?

Moderator Controls replicate all your touch tone controls for ease of use, and also provide additional controls to ensure that you get the most out of your conference call. These additional controls allow you to "ping" an individual, identify callers by phone number and track their attendance, and disconnect callers as needed, giving you an extra level of security.

How do I access the online call controls?

To access the web-based Moderator Controls, log into your InstantConference account online and select the Moderator Controls tab on the right-hand side of the "My Account" page. You will see your sub-accounts listed with a "Moderate" button to the right.

What is the "Ping" feature?

The ping feature lets the organizer get the attention of one particular person, using an audible tone. This can be used to verify who is on the call (role call), handle Q&A, or any activity where you need to identify or notify a single individual.

If I am administering more than one conference, can I switch between Moderator Control screens for both calls?

Yes. To switch between more than one conference call that is taking place from the Moderator Control screen, select the link under the Moderator Controls tab, then the "My Account" page. Your active conference calls are highlighted in green. Select the call you would like to moderate.

Can I lock a conference once it has begun so that no one else may join?

Yes. To keep your conference secure, select the "Lock" option on your Moderator Control screen. A red shaded icon denotes a locked conference.

Can I record my conference call using the web-based Moderator Controls?

Yes. To record your conference call, select the "Record" button on your list of moderator tools. Once the call is complete you will be able to download the file and save it as an mp3 for your use. Additionally, a dial-in number and access code will be provided for telephone playback. The recording will be stored for up to 120 days or until your next recorded call, whichever comes first.

I have an InstantConference dial-in number and a Toll Free number. Can I use the Moderator Controls for either?

Yes. Moderator Controls have been designed for use on any call through our service. You can use both an InstantConference and Toll Free account.

The field identifying the caller's name is blank. How do I know which participant is associated with the number listed?

Before entering the conference, participants are prompted to record their name after an audible tone. To identify each caller, the moderator clicks the play button on the left side of the name field. The recording of the participants name will be played over the Moderator's computer speakers. You may type in the caller's name in the field provided.

I am the Moderator of my call and I cannot hear myself when in Q&A mode and Presentation mode. What's wrong?

In this case you did not enter the Organizer Code, (*) followed by the access code then (#), prior to entering the conference. If you did not enter the Organizer Code prior to entering the conference you will be identified as a participant and muted during any mode other than conversation mode.