CoolConferenceLive (CCL) is a simple to use and free web conferencing service (albeit with a terrible name) that provides an instant online meeting between you and other participants. The online tool is still in beta, however it is currently fully operational. The interface is very intuitive, easy to use and allows you to start up a web conference or webcast very quickly.

When you log onto the site, you enter a participant code, given to you by your online meeting host. You fill out a short profile, identifying who you are (you can upload a picture if you want) and just like that, you’re in the online meeting. CCL can present online PowerPoint slides and other documents, however there is currently no white boarding or annotation so it is strictly webcasting. Features include quick ad-hoc polling, chat and whisper (chat with one person in the meeting only). Other unique features include the ability to upload and play an audio (MP3) file and a useful feature called “Notes,” which allows someone in the meeting to take notes and then with one click send them to themselves, to specific people outside the meeting or to all those that attending the meeting.

Created by CEO and motivational speaker Don Straits, CCL was designed to fit his personal needs as a consultant and through that success has expanded to a larger market. CCL’s business model is revenue through ad banners at no cost to the user. For a $300 annual fee subscribers can web conference ad-free. Unlike more robust online presentation services, CCL focuses on the basic online meeting services and makes them easy to use. The tool is built using Flex 3 and Adobe Flash.