Advanced call routing features
Introduction
When it comes to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, it has come a long way since its initial release. Today, VoIP service providers offer a range of advanced call routing features that have made it the most popular communication medium for individuals and businesses alike. These features make the communication process faster, smoother, and more efficient leading to better user experience and greater output.
Advanced Call Routing Features
1. Time-Based and Geographic-Based Routing
Time-based routing is a call routing feature that allows users to specify the time of day and days of the week when a call can be routed. This feature is helpful for businesses that may have different working hours or may operate in different time zones. Geographic-based routing is another feature that helps route calls based on the location of the caller. This feature can be very beneficial for companies that have specific numbers to cater to a particular demographic.
2. Least Cost Routing
Least Cost Routing (LCR) is a feature that allows calls to be routed based on the cost. This feature helps users to save money on long-distance or international calls. LCR works by selecting the cheapest route by analyzing different carriers' rates, thereby providing considerable savings on the bill.
3. Failover Routing
This feature allows businesses to set up secondary routes in case the primary route fails. If the primary route cannot be used due to a natural disaster or technical issue, for example, all calls can be re-routed using the secondary route; thus, businesses can ensure uninterrupted communication.
4. Simultaneous Ringing
This feature makes it possible for multiple devices to ring simultaneously. So, if a user's mobile phone and desk phone are registered to the same number, either phone can ring when there's an incoming call. This feature makes it easy to answer calls quickly, no matter where one is located.
5. IVR Routing
Interactive Voice Response (IVR) is a feature that plays a pre-recorded message to the caller and presents them with various options to select. This feature can help to provide quick service to customers, and if the call requires further assistance, they can then be routed to the necessary department or agent automatically.
6. Hunt Group Routing
This feature allows multiple phones to ring simultaneously, and when the call is answered, the rest of the phones stop ringing. This is an excellent feature for a customer support team, where incoming calls can be answered quickly.
7. Voicemail Routing
This feature routes the call directly to voicemail when a user is not available. It can also provide an automated reply to the caller, letting them know when the user will be available to take their call. This feature allows users always to stay updated with their callers, even when they are unavailable.
8. Call Queue Routing
This feature is helpful for businesses where multiple calls come in at the same time, and the system needs to prioritize them. Call queue routing places callers in a queue, and calls are answered based on the priority level assigned to them.
9. Call Recording
This feature allows users to record all calls for future reference. It can be used for quality monitoring, compliance, or as evidence in disputes.
The Benefits of Advanced Call Routing Features
1. Increased Productivity
Advanced call routing features help to streamline communication process, reducing the time spent on call routing; thus, increasing productivity levels.
2. Better Customer Experience
The advanced call routing features make it possible for calls to be handled quickly and professionally, resulting in better customer experience and satisfaction.
3. Cost-Effective
The cost-saving features from VoIP's advanced call routing features allow businesses to save money on long-distance calling, thus, helping to keep business expenses low.
4. Scalability
Advanced call routing features allow businesses to scale up or down as per their needs. Even if the business grows or changes direction, the system can be easily adapted to accommodate the new requirements.
Conclusion
The advanced call routing features in VoIP technology have revolutionized business communication. The benefits of these features are significant, resulting in better productivity, better customer satisfaction, and reduced costs. Companies that implement these advanced call routing features will surely enjoy the benefits of improved communication efficiency, thus, giving them a competitive edge in the market.