A method, system, and computer program product are disclosed to manage multiple operating modes in a video conferencing network under which different sets of policies can operate. The system is a network management server, also referred to herein as the ELASTIC GATEKEEPER™, that includes a Conference Management System, which selectively implements one or more different sets of operating policies. The Conference Management System is integrated and linked with a gatekeeper, which is responsible for setting up calls that are using end point alias addresses. The gatekeeper works with the Conference Management System to control access to network resources. Upon receiving a request to access a call, the gatekeeper passes the request to the Conference Management System for its approval. The Conference Management System has access to a robust set of policies, a detailed description of the network resources, and an awareness of the current System Operational Mode upon which to base a decision about the conditions and resources that can be granted to the requested call.