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A Publication Featuring The Information
Services Technology of Maine State Government
| Volume VI, Issue 7 | July 2003 |
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Q: How can we use our meeting time better?
A: By using Teleconferencing (audio-conferencing) and Web Conferencing services when establishing a meeting.
During the last few months, a small team has been reviewing the current teleconferencing processes used by State agencies. Although we do have some statistics for teleconferencing services used by State agencies, we do not believe it is all encompassing. We found that many State agencies either use their own vendor for teleconferencing services or do not realize that these services are available, or feel that meeting in person is the best way.
By utilizing tele/web conferencing services, individuals can reduce "travel reimbursement" expenses, stay right at their office and be more productive (minimized travel time) and for many people, multi-tasking while on a teleconference is even a better option.
Our team has developed functionality requirements for both Teleconferencing and Web Conferencing Services. The RFP was approved and advertised beginning on March 31, 2003. Our team has since met to review and begin scoring the proposals.
We are excited about the prospect of being able to provide agencies a solution to meet their teleconferencing and web conferencing needs.
Below some of the requirements that we are asking for:
Bill the originating agency directly for services
Offer conventional direct dial or toll free services
Provide conference calling capabilities 24 x7
Establish a teleconference call within minutes of scheduling
Expand teleconference audience as needed during call
User to schedule calls using web or telephone services
Provide web conferencing services to include:
Participant Lists
Share slide shows
Share documents
Security access
Within a few months, a vendor will be selected and agencies that currently do not utilize any conferencing services will have an opportunity to give it a try.
Thanks to team members; Lavana Snyder (BIS), Dave Rodrigue (BIS), Elizabeth Symonds (DOT), Dorothea Socea (DECD) and Donna Grant (DEP).
