Abstract: A management and control unit for a network-based conferencing system has an interface for outputting control signals to a platform for establishing audio connections across a network between users. Another interface receives control signals from a platform for providing a graphical user interface to a user, for use in controlling the conferencing system. The unit has access to a database for maintaining management data relating to one or more existing conferences. The management and control unit receives control signals input by a user at the graphical user interface in respect of an audio conference, and outputs control signals to the platform for establishing audio connections. An audio conference can thus be established between the user and at least two other users over the network. Management data can be transmitted to the graphical user interface during a conference for use in managing the conference.