I've seen the RH (Raise Hand)/ND (Not Done)/AD (All Done) feature implemented without software...
Though it does take a moderator and a modicum of self control by the participants... You can have some pretty complex discussions once people get used to the general idea and have a little practice under their belts.
The big problems I encountered with online meetings were twofold: First, keeping track of the various threads (main meeting, and PMed side conversations), second the lack of feedback and nuance that plagues all electronically moderated interaction. The first can be a real hassle for people unused/unable to timeshare their mind in realtime.
Re: Chat Room?
Though it does take a moderator and a modicum of self control by the participants... You can have some pretty complex discussions once people get used to the general idea and have a little practice under their belts.
The big problems I encountered with online meetings were twofold: First, keeping track of the various threads (main meeting, and PMed side conversations), second the lack of feedback and nuance that plagues all electronically moderated interaction. The first can be a real hassle for people unused/unable to timeshare their mind in realtime.