We’ve all sat through some dry conference calls where we’d rather be doing something else.  Today, we’re rolling out a tool for “unconference calls” which you might find to be an attractive solution to this problem.

What is an unconference call?

Unconference calls are interactive and highly participatory.  They start the same way as a conference call but they have two main differences which make them much more enjoyable:

1. When the host is ready, the group can subdivide into audio and/or video breakout tables for a more efficient discussion and then reconvene as a whole group with a single click at the right time.  This way, people only need to participate in the discussion that’s most relevant to them.
2. There is a collaborative whitespace where the whole group can brainstorm, share links, and document the conversation.  Each breakout table also has its own collaborative whitespace to accompany their breakout session.

Tactics and Strategies

There are a variety of collaborative techniques you can employ when running one of these unconference calls.

1. You could have all tables talking about the same topic or all tables could be talking about different topics.
2. You can choose the topics, or you can let the participants choose the topics of the breakout tables.
3. You could let participants hop between these virtual breakout tables.
4. You could have one person remaining at each table for continuity and have everyone else switch tables every 5 minutes to ensure a cross pollination of ideas.
5. You can link to other tools such as interactive surveys for use during the call.

We look forward to seeing people use unconference calls in creative ways to design more interactive meetings.