answer:The issue with meetings is some are not run well and end up in a mire where, “People try to win points. They argue. They talk stuff to death. They are too long.” The person that called the meeting should have an agenda posted before the meeting. There should a set mission to be completed and anything off topic should be taken off line. Gatekeeper or chairman of the meeting is supposed to ensure that the meeting will be conducted orderly manner and a conclusion is met on the agenda when possible. They should have and maintain a time limit for each person and item. If possible there maybe a recording made of the telecon for review later by people unable to get to the phone, at the very least there should be minutes posted after the meeting / telecon. Yes, I have set-up and run many, many corporate meetings.