Automated Attendant:
An automated attendant, also known as an auto attendant or virtual receptionist, is a computerized telephony system that handles incoming calls and directs them to the appropriate department or extension within an organisation. It is designed to replace or supplement the need for a human receptionist, providing a professional and efficient way to manage incoming calls. The automated attendant typically greets callers with a pre-recorded message and offers a menu of options to choose from, such as dialing an extension, leaving a voicemail, or accessing specific services. It uses voice recognition or touch-tone input to understand caller’s preferences and routes the call accordingly. The automated attendant enhances customer service by ensuring prompt and accurate call routing, reducing wait times, and improving overall communication efficiency.
An automated attendant is a telecommunications system that automatically answers and routes incoming calls without the need for human intervention. It is commonly used in businesses and organisations to efficiently manage and direct incoming calls to the appropriate departments or individuals.
From a legal perspective, the use of an automated attendant must comply with applicable laws and regulations, such as those related to privacy, data protection, and telecommunications. For instance, businesses must ensure that the automated attendant system does not collect or store personal information without the consent of the callers, and that any collected data is securely stored and protected.
Additionally, businesses using automated attendants should provide clear and accurate information to callers about how their calls are being handled and any options available to them. This may include informing callers about the purpose of call recording, if applicable, and providing an option to opt-out of such recordings.
Furthermore, businesses should also consider accessibility requirements, ensuring that the automated attendant system is accessible to individuals with disabilities, such as providing options for TTY/TDD users or offering alternative means of communication.
Overall, while automated attendants can streamline call management processes, businesses must ensure that their use complies with legal obligations and respects the rights and privacy of callers.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automated-attendant/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Automated Attendant. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automated-attendant/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Automated Attendant. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automated-attendant/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Automated Attendant. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automated-attendant/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts