General FAQs
Virtual Platform FAQs
Agenda
What is the agenda format?
Agenda information will be provided on the Virtual Meeting Platform.
When is an agenda available for viewing prior to the conference?
The electronic version will be available in May prior to the conference.
Conference Format
All Sessions will be available virtually or on-demand?
Sessions will be available, virtually, live streamed or on-demand during the conference dates. Some virtual sessions may be hosted with recorded presentations and presenting authors required to attend during the session time for live questions and answers. CSTE is not responsible for presenting authors or attendee internet connection issues.
What time zones will be used?
The virtual conference schedule will refer to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
As a virtual attendee, would I be able to ask questions or participate in discussions?
Yes, during sessions that are live or semi-live the presenting authors will be available to answer questions and address comments. For OnDemand sessions, attendees may leave a message or email the presenting author with questions.
What is planned for poster presentations?
All posters will be available for viewing via on-demand utilizing the virtual platform during the conference dates and available for viewing following the conference.
What is planned for roundtable presentations?
Roundtables strongly focus on discussion among attendees during the sessions and will not be recorded.
What is planned for networking sessions/activities?
Various virtual networking sessions may be planned during the conference. Please indicate your interest in these sessions during registration. Final determination will be made in Spring of 2021.
Will I be able to visit some of my favorite sponsors and exhibitors as a virtual attendee?
Yes. Virtual attendees will have access to virtual booths.
Registration
Do presenting authors pay for registration?
All presenting authors are required to pay applicable registration fees to attend the virtual conference. CSTE does not provide waive registration fees for presenting authors to attend the conference.
Can I pay for a large group and if so how?
Yes, contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] for the appropriate form and additional instructions.
Can I pay by check?
Yes, attendees may register online by check. Check payment must be received at the CSTE National Office within 30 days from online registration. All check payments must be received by May 24, 2021 or your registration will be cancelled. For additional information, contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected].
I need to print an invoice for my accounting department, how do I retrieve one?
Contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] to request an invoice.
What is the refund policy?
Please refer to our Payment/Cancellation Policy at: https://www.csteconference.org/index.php/registration-fees-11321/
Can I pay for registration by purchase order?
No, purchase orders are not accepted.
When is the Early-Bird deadline for registration?
Friday, April 30, 2021. Registration must be completed on-line by 11:59 PM Eastern that date.
What if I forgot my registration password?
Attendees who have registered for a previous CSTE conference will have a saved contact profile. If you forgot your password, click on the link for “forgot password” and it will be e-mailed to you. You will need the e-mail address previously used for registration. If you forgot or changed your e-mail address, then begin a new registration.
What If I am registering my supervisor and do not know their password?
Begin a new registration. Or, if you have access to their e-mail then use the “forgot password” link.
Why can’t CSTE enter my registration if paying by credit card?
For security and to maintain PCI compliance, CSTE staff cannot accept credit card payment by e-mail, fax, chat, or any other unsecure means.
Will I receive a confirmation of my registration?
If you register online, a confirmation of your registration will be sent to you via email immediately upon registering on-line. If you do not receive confirmation email with 24-hours, please do not hesitate to contact the CSTE National Office at (770) 458-3811.
How do I register if I am a member of the press?
Professional editorial staff (including photographers and camera crews) of print, online, and broadcast media interested in obtaining a press registration should contact Jeremy Arieh, Director of Communications at [email protected].
Why is CSTE charging for virtual attendance?
Due to the various costs associated with a conference our size we do require registration fees to ensure expenses are covered to host virtual elements.
Other
My question is not here, who should I contact?
Please call the CSTE National Office at (770) 458-3811.
Does CSTE offer Continuing Education Credits?
Continuing education for the 2021 CSTE Annual Conference is pending. Details on how to register and claim CE will be released in June pending activity approval.
What ADA accommodations are available on the virtual platform?
CSTE is committed to making the sessions accessible through the virtual platform. More information will be available at a later date. If you require specific ADA accommodations, please contact Shundra Clinton [email protected] no later than May 1, 2021 even if you have not registered for the conference yet.
Presenter FAQs
Do I need to register for the conference in order to present or moderate?
Yes, all presenting authors and moderators must register for the conference and pay related fees in order to access the virtual platform during the conference dates.
What email should I use to access the Presenter’s Zone?
Speakers must use the same email address for abstract submission, Presenter’s Zone, and conference registration! Only presenting authors will receive access to the Presenter Zone.
What is the deadline for presentation upload?
All presenting authors are required to upload their recorded presentation no later than 11:59 PM (EDT) on Monday, May 10, 2021.
Why is the presentation upload so early this year?
Due to the size and complexity of the CSTE conference, production will review and prepare all the breakout presentations for viewing by attendees. This includes reviewing presentations for audio and video quality, adding captioning to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience for attendees, and preparing all presentations into one cohesive session.
What breakout sessions will be recorded?
All breakout sessions will be recorded and available on the virtual platform for up to three months after the conclusion of the event for registered attendees. Please ensure your presentation has agency approval for recording as we are unable to modify session recordings.
Will networking and roundtable sessions be recorded?
No, networking and roundtable sessions are not recorded as they are intended for live discussion.
What is the difference between a live and on-demand breakout session?
Please see the Breakout Speaker Guidelines.
How much time do I have for my presentation in the breakout session?
Breakout presentation times are based on your presentation format for the breakout session. Presentation times are on the online agenda and available in the Breakout Speaker Guidelines.
How do I record my presentation for uploading to the platform?
Screen Recorders are able to record your webcam along with your recording. You may use any screen recorder of your choice provided the file format type is MP4, MOV, AVI, MPG, or MPEG. We Recommend these screen recorders will do an excellent job of recording your slide presentation:
- For Windows or Mac:
- Use TechSmith Snagit (free 15-day trial), and send us the MP4 recording.
- Use Zoom Meeting Application (free account), and send us the MP4 recording.
We do not recommend recording capability built into PowerPoint as the resulting MP4 will not result in good quality recording. Please see the eventPower Virtual Speaker Tips or video for detailed instructions on recording a presentation.
What are the acceptable video file forms?
- Video recordings should fit within your allotted presentation time.
- File Types Accepted: .mp4, .mov, .avi, .mpg, or .mpeg
- File Size Max: 3 GB
- Video Resolution: 720p or 1080p. Videos will be scaled to 720p
IMPORTANT: Do not record your screen with a higher resolution than 1920 x 1080. If your computer’s resolution is higher than that, please change this to a maximum of 1920 x 1080.
How do I learn more about recording a presentation?
Please see the eventPower Virtual Speaker Tips or video for detailed instructions on recording a presentation.
What streaming service will be used in the platform for live sessions?
CSTE will be utilizing Zoom to stream live sessions during the conference. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the Zoom Meeting and Zoom Webinar to prepare for the meeting. Zoom Meeting will be used for workshops, roundtables and networking sessions while Zoom Webinar will be used for our live breakout and plenary sessions.
Additional Helpful Resources
What dimensions and file type should my poster be?
The poster presentation must be uploaded as a PDF file. For a one-page file upload the size limit is 10MB. For a multiple page file upload the size limit is 30MB.
What is a poster thumbnail?
This image will display alongside the respective poster title in the Poster Hall. Attendees will click on the thumbnail image associated with a poster title to “enter” into that presenter’s poster booth. The thumbnail image should be uploaded in PNG or JPEG format.
Do I have to upload an audio or video walkthrough of my poster as part of my presentation?
No, poster presentations do not have an associated audio or video of their presentation.
When will my poster be available for viewing on the virtual platform?
Poster presentations will be available for viewing when the virtual platform opens, during the conference dates, and three months following the conference for registered attendees. They are also part of the virtual platform gamification and attendees receive points for each poster visited.
Will presenters receive any trainings?
We will host presenter training sessions in May 2021 with dates and times announced at a later date. It is highly recommended that presenting authors and moderators attend one of these live sessions to ask questions, however these sessions will be recorded and available for you to view later.
How do I learn more about the virtual platform?
See more information on the virtual platform at Getting Stated with the CSTE Virtual Conference Platform and our FAQ page.
Who should I contact for support with Presenter Zone or Poster Portal?
Presenting authors and moderators should contact to [email protected] for support with Presenter Zone, presentation recordings, handout upload, or presentation upload. Poster Portal support is available by contacting Teri Caron at [email protected].
Virtual Platform Information
General Information
What technology do I need to attend this event?
For the best experience, we suggest using a desktop or laptop computer and Google Chrome internet browser. The platform supports Google Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge browsers. If you are using an older browser like Internet Explorer, please upgrade to one of the browsers above for best experience. Proper speeds for streaming are at least 1.8 Mb per second for download and 0.6 Mb per second for upload speeds for standard definition (3 Mb download and 1.5 Mb upload speeds for HD).
Does the virtual platform require you to download software?
No, you will not be required to download software prior to the event. You will be provided a link to access the virtual platform.
Do I need to have a webcam for the event?
No, you do not need a webcam to attend the virtual event. However, sponsors, some exhibitors, and attendees may have the ability to request a video chat. We encourage you to use your webcam during certain sessions to allow for a face-to-face experience with other attendees!
What are “Live” sessions?
Live sessions will occur during their assigned conference session date and time where pre-recorded presentations (plenaries and breakouts) will be played and speakers, moderators, and attendees participate in live chat and Q&A. Sessions will use Zoom Webinar where attendees are view-only participants. Zoom will be used with workshops, roundtables, and networking sessions for attendees to discuss and collaborate with video and chat.
What are “On-Demand” sessions?
On-demand sessions will have an assigned conference session date and time for scheduling, but will be available for viewing at any time after the virtual platform is opened to registrants and for up to three months after the conference. There will not be a live chat or Q&A during these sessions. All poster presentations are on-demand and certain breakout sessions are as well.
How will I know which sessions are live or on-demand?
All poster presentations are on-demand. Any breakout session that is on-demand will have “on-demand” in the session title. Live sessions will have a “Join Now” link and On-Demand sessions will have a “View Now” link.
When will I receive access instructions for the virtual platform?
Approximately on or around Tuesday, June 1, and a reminder email prior to the conference dates. Please check your spam folder for your email or contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] for assistance.
How do I log in to the virtual event?
Approximately on or around Tuesday, June 1, registrants will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the virtual event. Please check your spam folder for your email or contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] for assistance.
Can I share my virtual conference login information with other members of my team?
The login link created is unique to each person who is registered for the virtual conference. For every paid registration to attend virtually, only one device at a time will be allowed to enter the platform.
Who can I contact if I want to become a CSTE Member?
For membership information, visit Join CSTE – Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists or contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected].
Can I see who is attending the virtual conference?
Registered attendees profile information defaults to sharing name, company (agency), and job title with other attendees for networking. Attendees my modify this setting under “Edit Profile” where only first name and last initial will display. View attendees under the left navigation link “Attendees”.
How long will I be able to view past sessions in the platform?
For registered attendees, you will be able to access past sessions in the platform for 3 months post-conference.
Virtual Session Questions
How do I edit or update my virtual profile?
To edit your virtual profile, please select “Edit Profile” on the right-hand side under your name and make the necessary changes. Note: Certain fields will be locked and can only be updated by CSTE. Contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] to update a locked field.
Can I login the platform on two separate devices?
No, users are limited to login to the platform on one device at a time only.
Can I select the sessions I would like to attend?
Yes, you can choose sessions on the “Agenda” navigation and add them to “MyAgenda”.
Why can’t I add more than one session taking place at the same time to “MyAgenda”?
The MyAgenda feature recreates your live event experience and you can not add multiple sessions taking place at the same time.
How can I add a session on my calendar?
To add a session to your calendar, select “Add to Calendar” from the Agenda navigation. The system will automatically link the session directly to your Google or Outlook (.ics) calendar.
How can I remove a session from my agenda?
To remove a session from your agenda, please select the “Agenda” navigation. Then select “MyAgenda” to remove any session(s) or view your customized schedule. Please note sessions previously added to your personal calendar will remain there if you cancel. Be certain to remove canceled events from your personal calendar.
I am on the waitlist for a workshop, what do I do?
Individuals on the waitlist will be notified via email if space becomes available in the days leading up to the conference.
When will the session links be available?
The session links will be available 30 minutes prior to the start time of the session. A ‘Join Now’ button will appear on your Session’s Agenda tab when available.
How early can I access the session(s)?
You will be able to join the session 10 minutes prior to the scheduled date and time. The links will be located under My Agenda on the “Agenda” navigation.
What time zone will be used for virtual sessions?
Sessions will take place in Eastern Daylight Time.
What days or times will feature the live sessions?
Live sessions will occur at various time throughout the conference dates of June 13 – 17, 2021.
How can I attend members-only sessions for position statement discussions and the Business Meeting?
Member-only sessions will display under the “Member-Only Agenda ” for current dues paid members through June 30, 2021. To check your membership status, become a member, or renew your membership, contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT on Monday, June 14, 2021.
How do I find a presenter?
Presenting authors for sessions other than posters can be searched under “Speakers”. Poster presenters can be searched in the “Poster Hall”.
Are there recordings available after the events?
For registered attendees, the live plenary and breakouts sessions will be recorded and available for up to three months after the conclusion of the conference. Roundtables, networking events, and the business meeting are not recorded. Workshops may or may not be recorded depending on the workshop. All sessions will be posted the day after the live session takes place.
How long will I be able to view past sessions in the platform?
For registered attendees, you will be able to access past sessions in the platform for 3 months post-conference.
How do I participate in the Exhibit Hall raffle?
To participate in the Exhibit Hall raffle, all you need to do is visit those particular sponsors and exhibitors who are participating in the raffle to be entered. Prizes will be shipped or provided online by the exhibiting company participating in the raffle.
Who will I be able to chat with?
You will be able to chat with attendees, exhibitors, sponsors and speakers. To chat directly with an attendee or speaker, please select the “Attendees” navigation to begin networking.
Can I ask questions during a live session?
Yes, we encourage questions by using the Q&A or chat box feature depending on the sessions. For live breakout sessions, questions are submitted to technical support, room host(s), and the moderator(s) where they may answer during a presentation or placed in the que for the Q&A at the end of the live session.
Technical Difficulties
What email should I use when logging in?
Please use the email address you used when registering for the conference.
What is my password?
You will not have a password if this is the first time you’re logging in. To create your password, simply log-in and follow the instructions provided to set your password.
What if I forgot my password?
If you have forgotten your account password, please request a password reset.
- Go to the event login page URL located in your event confirmation email.
- Select Forgot Password?
- The system will send a six-digit code to your email address. Please enter that six-digit code to reset your password.
I didn't receive an email with the six-digit code to reset my password?
It can take up to 5 minutes for you to receive the email with your login code. If you still don’t receive it, please check your spam folder. If it’s still not available, contact Shundra Clinton at [email protected] to help get you logged in.
I am in the session but my video is frozen and I can’t hear the audio, what do I do?
Please ensure that your system’s speakers are turned on and the volume is up. If the video continues to freeze, please try to refresh your internet browser by selecting Ctrl+F5. If you have a Mac, please hold down the “Command” key and the “R” key on your keypad. ⌘+R.
I am in the session but the video is blurry/pixelated or choppy, what can I do?
Please, check your internet connection to ensure you are receiving the proper speeds for streaming. Test your internet connection on speedtest.net or fast.com (3Mb download / 1.5Mb upload for 720 HD video). Note: Video issues may be on the presenter’s side due to network or equipment issues.
I am in a session and the audio keeps breaking up, what do I do?
If you are using a Bluetooth device, please make certain your batteries aren’t low. Please try changing headsets or dial-in. Note: Audio issues may be on the presenter’s side due to network or equipment issues.
I am in a session but the other person talking doesn’t hear me, what do I do?
Please make certain that your volume is turned up and your speakers are set to the correct device.
What happens if there are technical issues during a session?
With the added strain on networks as more people are at home and online, sessions may encounter technical glitches. If your session is disrupted, we encourage you to continue the session if at all possible. If you are unable to proceed the session due to network or platform issues, please email our Technical Team directly at [email protected] or use the “Live Support” function in the virtual conference platform.
Have a question or need support during the conference?
If you are in the virtual conference platform, visit the CSTE Information Booth or live chat with us! To live chat, look for the “Live Support” button on the bottom left side of each page. Live support is available one (1) hour prior to the conference start and 30 minutes after the last session starts.
The on-demand video I am trying to watch on the platform is buffering.
Buffering may depend on user internet speed. Please check your internet connection speeds or connect to a hardwired internet connection.