The Automated Attendant is probably one of the most recognized applications in the Computer Telephony industry. Working alone or in conjunction with a live operator, the auto attendant answers the incoming call usually before ringing an extension. At that time, prerecorded voice messages are played to the caller offering them a menu of choices for directing their call. "Welcome to the abc company. For sales press 1, for service press 2, to speak to our operator press 3." Once the caller has made their choice, the call is routed to the appropriate ringing extension, where they will be connected to the called party, or presented with yet another series of choices. Anyone involved in business communications today is very familiar with auto attendants, and businesses both large and small can easily take advantage of the technology.

Auto attendants can be very simple, or complex listings of choices that can easily become overwhelming and frustrating to the caller if not properly designed and implemented. Small businesses and even many home businesses are utilizing the auto attendant to not only effectively answer and route incoming calls, but also to give a "corporate" image to their operations. Auto attendants are available that incorporate advanced features such as voice mail, information on demand, and follow-me capabilities.

Prompt response: The Auto Attendant will answer all calls on the first ring.

Enhance customer service: Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, the Automated Attendant performs tasks that will enhance customer service with a minimum of personal attention.

Call redirection: The Auto Attendant uses a simple menu to route callers to the appropriate telephone number or recorded information without any personal assistance. Recorded information can be updated at any time from any telephone, and is password protected.

Information service: Reduce call traffic by as much as 50% or more by providing the answers to common questions via the Auto Attendant.

Message service: The Auto Attendant will hold the call for a specific extension if it rings busy. It will also announce the caller's position in queue and offer the options to stay in queue, leave a message, or hang up and try again later.