Tradition 6 says we do not endorse any particular outside enterprise. Tradition 10 says we have no opinion on outside issues. However, we are providing our experience, strength, and hope regarding how to sign in to the various virtual meetings in the District. It is not necessary to sign up for either of the following services in order to join these virtual meetings.
Zoom
List of meetings: Click here to access the list of Zoom meetings associated with the Ottawa District Intergroup.
Audio + Video
Zoom allows members to both see and hear other people in the meeting. To use this feature, you need to log into the meeting either with your smart phone app, tablet, or your computer/laptop by clicking on the appropriate meeting link on the list of meetings mentioned above.
If you are using a smart phone or tablet, you will need to download the Zoom app to dial in. The app is free, and can be easily downloaded.
If you are using a computer or laptop, and do not want to install the Zoom application follow the steps outlined below:
- Click on the appropriate meeting link on the list of meetings mentioned above.
- On your web browser, a pop-up window will prompt you to open or download the application.
- In the pop-up window, click Cancel.
- At the bottom of the page, click join from your browser. You will be directed to a new page.
- Click Allow to allow Zoom permission to access your microphone and camera.
- Sign in with your name to join the meeting.
- Click Join.
Audio only
If you are using your mobile or land line, dial one of the following numbers:
Canada +1 647 558 0588 (Toronto)
Canada +1 647 374 4685 (Toronto)
Canada +1 438 809 7799 (Montreal)
Canada +1 778 907 2071 (BC)
Canada +1 587 328 1099 (Alberta)
Any of these numbers will work from Ottawa.
If you are calling from outside Canada:
United States:
+1 253 215 8782
+1 301 715 8592
+1 312 626 6799
+1 346 248 7799
+1 646 558 8656
+1 669 900 9128
United Kingdom:
+44 203 481 5237
+44 203 481 5240
+44 203 901 7895
+44 131 460 1196
+44 203 051 2874
Because of the abundance of people using Zoom, you may need to try more than one number. When prompted, enter the corresponding Meeting ID and password from the list of meetings mentioned above.
If you would like to start a virtual meeting and need help, please contact the Intergroup Publication Chair at publications@oa-ottawa.ca.
Suggested guidelines for attending/chairing virtual meetings
Attending a virtual meeting is different from a regular phone conversation. For example, small noises in the background may cause feedback and may prevent the speaker from being heard clearly. Our experience, strength, and hope with virtual meetings has led us to develop the following guidelines during a virtual meeting:
- Arrive early
Many of these services will announce whenever someone new joins the meeting, which can get disruptive during a group phone call. It is recommended to join 10 minutes prior to the stated time. - Stay on mute
As mentioned, any noise such as background traffic, children or pets, and coughing can be heard and may result in feedback. The moderator will instruct you when you should mute, but to be safe, it is best to stay muted until you want or need to speak. Phone mutes are done by pressing * than 6. If you are using a mobile phone or a computer, you can mute by clicking on the icon that looks like a microphone. - Avoid speakerphone
Using speakerphone when speaking can also result in feedback or distortion, making it difficult to be understood. If possible, when speaking, use headphones or earbuds that have a microphone. Again, using mute will prevent feedback if you are not sharing. - Long-distance and data plans
There may be long-distance fees or data usage associated with the virtual meeting. Check with your service provider to find out what your plan covers. - Suggested meeting format
WSO has a suggested formats for meetings. You can download them here:
https://oa.org/news/new-welcome-text-added-to-suggested-meeting-formats