TELECONFERENCE SYSTEM AND METHOD PERMITTING PRE-REGISTRATION

摘要

A teleconference system and method permitting teleconference pre- registration is disclosed. Tree system includes a configuration tool, a pre- registration system, and, preferably, an audio bridge. The configuration too l is initially used by a conference organizer to configure the pre-registration system to pre-register intended teleconference participants in accordance with a conference-specific scheme. Pre-registration may be configured to be operati ve during a selected time period. The pre-registration system receives calls fr om intended conference participants during the selected time period and pre- registers callers for the scheduled conference. During pre-registration, information is gathered from the participant in accordance with the organizer's instructions. A unique personal identifier may also be assigned to each call er by the pre-registration system. At the conclusion of pre-registration, intended participation in the scheduled conference can be ascertained by noting which intended participants have pre-registered for the scheduled conference. At t he time of the scheduled conference, pre-registered parties call the audio brid ge to be connected to the scheduled conference. Entry of assigned personal identifiers (if any) may serve to identify the conference to which the calle r shouldbe connected, or to provide an indication of conference attendance.