Use IRC software

IRC is a simple teleconferencing solution where all attendees use a "chat" service, logging in using a user name and password.

I recommend: Check out chat services provided by Yahoo, Microsoft and AOL to determine which one suits your needs. Although most IRC services require you to type in your messages, some allow webcam hookups and Voice Over IP (VOIP) communication. Trillian, an independent chat service, allows you to meet with anyone, no matter which service they subscribe to.

Set up a call using a business teleconferencing service

Use business teleconferencing services to set up meetings for large groups of people using telephones. Everyone is asked to call a specific number at a specific time and to dial in a passcode, which allows each person to attend the conference.

I recommend: There are many teleconferencing companies that offer this type of audio teleconferencing solution and provide a toll-free number for attendees to call. A few of the more prominent teleconference services include ConferenceCall.com, Global Conference and InterCall.

Harness the power of the Worldwide Web

Internet teleconferencing services allow you to use video presentations or communicate via VOIP and video. These types of conferences are harder to organize because they require that attendees be in areas equipped with web conferencing hardware: cameras, microphones, an Internet connection and a monitor or video screen, but they are especially useful for conferences that need a lot of graphics and charts.

I recommend: Many companies use teleconference centers in major cities to hold these meetings. Companies offering these services include Genesys and ReadyComm. If you're on a limited budget, you can hold a web conference on your Personal Computer (PC) using  teleconferencing companies such as Go2Meeting and iVisit.