In a multimedia communications system (100), a conference establishment
server coordinates the scheduling of a conference call. The server
receives request for conference calls (202). The request includes a list
of participants and may include an indication of the resources necessary
and any rules for the conference call. The request may indicate critical
resources or participants that are required for the call. Based on the
request, the server determines a conference time and notifies participants
of the time (204, 206, 210). Prior to conference time, participants are
reminded of the time and automatically connected to the call. The server
may check the status of users on the telecommunications network to
determine availability. If a critical participant or resource is
unavailable at conference time, the conference may be cancelled with
notification to the participants.
