A centrally located message center is a vital part of the conference communications system, serving both the meeting staff and the participants. It allows attendees to keep in touch with colleagues, their families, and their offices and serves as a communications focal point.
A variety of systems are available. The basic message center has a staff member equipped with all the necessary meeting and area information to take messages and post them on an electronic message system using video monitors or work stations or on a bulletin board divided into alphabetical groupings. Messages are taken over the phone by arrangement with the switchboard or are left by individuals. Each posted message is flagged for the attention of the intended recipient and posted in the appropriate alphabetical section of the display.
If the facility does not provide messaging systems, monitors and electronic message boards can be rented from local suppliers. Other systems range from a simple overhead projector message display to sophisticated computerized message retrieval and personal data assistants. Each system requires that the recipient check in by phone, on the Net, or by stopping by the center. Policies need to be established for expedited messages such as emergency telephone calls and procedures for locating or paging recipients. A new generation of smart badges, as described in Chapter 11, facilitates instantaneous notification of wearers.
Adequate space is needed for equipment layout. Telephones may be equipped with visual light ring indicators if audible rings might be disturbing. Preprinted message forms provide uniformity of information and can be either stock pads or specially designed forms that incorporate the organization logo or conference theme. Telephone directories or disks are helpful to have on hand, and envelopes should be supplied to allow for sealed messages.