eCommunicator for Faculty & Staff

2006 Faculty/Staff Edition - Volume 3 > Meeting Maker

Are You a Meeting Maker Expert Yet?

June 2006

It can take some time to get used to anything that is new, and software is no exception. Perhaps by now you are a pro with Meeting Maker v8.5.3, but if you are still getting used to it, try these tips and tricks:

See your most up-to-date calendar from off campus
When using Meeting Maker from off campus, make sure to log in using VPN. This creates a secure connection and allows you to see your most up-to-date appointments. Or, use the Meeting Maker Web client at https://meetingmaker.northwestern.edu/mmwebclient/.

Can't print certain days? Resets your changes?
The Meeting Maker vendor released a fix for many of the common bugs in the program, including printing problems, change resets, regular crashing, and frequent timeouts. If you experience any of these issues, download the latest Meeting Maker at http://www.it.northwestern.edu/software/staff/dept/meetingmaker/.

Where to go for help
Meeting Maker Help is built right into the program and provides an extensive list of topics and step-by-step instructions. The Web-based interface of the help tool enables easy searching, and is quick to find in the Help Menu under Contents.

Change the colors and format
Still not used to the new Meeting Maker look and feel? You can change it to look just like the old version—or any other color format. Change to Classic View by selecting Menu / Edit / View Options / Classic View. Try changing calendar colors and activity colors by simply selecting the activity, then the Label menu. You can also adjust the calendar background colors by going to Edit / Preferences / Color.

Change calendar sizes
If you need more space for your calendar, minimize the side task bar, proposal windows, or any other open item. Simply place your cursor over the border of the item, and click and drag to resize.

Use Autopick to select a convenient time
When you are proposing a meeting, the Autopick function suggests a time when everyone is available. After you entered the guests, select the Autopick button on the bottom right of the Add Guests dialogue box to jump to a convenient time.

Make a Group for teams that meet frequently
With Meeting Maker it is easy to quickly invite a team that regularly gets together. Avoid re-entering names for every event—just create a Group instead. Go to Edit / Favorites / New Group. Name your Group and add users to it. The entire list's availability is shown when you select that Group for a meeting.

Add common invitees to Favorites
For quicker inviting, add your common invitees to your Favorites list. Search for the guest and click Add to Favorites. To view your Favorites, select it from the drop-down menu on the Add Guests dialogue box.

Show a proxy calendar and your calendar side-by-side
It's easy to compare your schedule with another user's, especially when they give you proxy access. Just go to Proxy / Show in Calendar. Remember, Proxy access means another user granted you detailed access to their calendar.

For additional help
For more information, tips, and tricks, go to the Meeting Maker Web site, or the Meeting Maker page of the NUIT Web site. For technical support, contact the NUIT Support Center at 847-491-HELP (4357) or consultant@northwestern.edu.

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