Selection of telecon provider for calls

["Eldin Rammell" <eldin.rammell@rammell.com>]

I note that one of the agenda items for the first meeting is "Selection of telecon provider for calls", with a suggestion to consider freeconferencecall.com.

This service promotes itself as providing "free international access numbers". What this actually means is that provision of international access numbers is free to the conference call host; conference call participants will be charged depending on their location. Many of the non-US dial-in numbers provided are categorized as premium rate numbers in the originating country. For example, the UK number would cost callers £0.54 per minute (approximately $53.00 per 1-hour meeting).

I suggest that an alternative provider is selected that provides low-cost calls globally. This may mean that US-based members will pay a small charge rather than having a free number but will be fairer on a global basis. I propose using powwownow.com, costing 5c/minute for US/Canada callers (or $3.00 per 1-hour call). Other providers are available with similar charges.

For consideration/discussion during our first meeting please.

Regards,
Eldin.