39 CFR §955.10

1. (a)Regardless of whether an appeal will be decided after a hearing or on the written record, the Board may, on its own initiative or at the request of one of the parties, convene a conference to consider:
   1. (1)Simplifying or clarifying the issues;
   2. (2)Obtaining stipulations, admissions, agreements on documents, understandings on matters already of record, and similar agreements to avoid unnecessary proof;
   3. (3)Limiting the number of witnesses and avoiding cumulative evidence;
   4. (4)Settling any of the disputed issues; and
   5. (5)Discussing any other matters that may aid in disposing of the appeal.
2. (b)The Board will prepare a written summary of any conference with the parties. The written summary will be part of the record.