This topic is mostly about the ministry of the church. Since every church does it somewhat differently, I will not presume to prescribe some magical "right" way. However, in today's society, where fewer and fewer people have a church background, and more and more people are experiencing copious amounts of brokenness in their life, it would certainly be helpful to provide a time of prayer at an altar or in small groups. Some people just feel better about their circumstances, or feel better about accessing God, if they are not praying alone. It also helps people to realize that church is not just a place of meeting, but is a place where the power of God can impact their life.
Another item that many churches have unfortunately shied away from in recent times is calling people to a decision. We cannot rely on the fact that people know they need to make a decision for God. In today's times people simply do not know what it means to have a personal relationship with God.
There's an old business axiom. "Ask for the sale". I see a great value in closing every service with an opportunity for the audience to make whatever type of decision the sermon called for. It is hard for someone to grow spiritually if they never start the process. And they cannot start the process without deciding to. And they cannot make the decision without bieng asked to.