Auto dialer software dials telephone numbers that are programmed into it. Auto dialing solutions allow a single agent to make a large quantity of calls. They save time since numbers don't have to be dialed manually. They can be used for telemarketing, surveys, fundraisers or sending reminders or messages.

Auto dialers can be used as part of a live agent's tools or with recorded messages. Here are a few things to consider when choosing auto dialer call center software:

1. Look for call center auto dialer solutions with predictive dialing features to target customers who are most likely to respond.

2. Make sure the user interface is easy for agents to learn and use.

3. Think about the management tools you need to evaluate agents' productivity.

4. Consider advanced features, like the ability to distinguish live voice and answering machines and interactive touch tone features.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider hosted call center auto dialer software

Hosted solutions run remotely from vendors' locations. Calls are usually routed over the Internet to agents at either full call centers or individual computers. A hosted call center can save a lot of money in equipment purchases, especially if you don't have many agents.

I recommend: TouchStar offers a hosted call center system that allows you to connect virtual agents remotely. It includes 24-hour service and support. Five9 provides a hosted system that allows you to create automated campaigns and handle notifications and appointment reminders to reach more customers using fewer agents.

Save money with auto dialer web-based software

A web-based auto dialer solution is an economical choice for a company with few agents or agents that work remotely. All calls are managed from a web-based interface.

I recommend: VoiceShot Outbound voice broadcasting allows you to instantly send multiple interactive phone calls, manage calling lists and analyze results, right from a web interface. The auto dialer system from eBusiness Communications Solutions sends a recorded message to specified contacts. There are no setup costs or contracts and you are charged per call.

Look at auto dialer software vendors that offer solutions for small businesses

Find affordable and easy-to-use software aimed at small to medium sized businesses.

I recommend: Telescript from Digisoft includes advanced auto dialing options, the ability to use a variety of databases and customizable scripts. The Acarda Messenger is a solution for agentless systems. The software generates a list of telephone numbers, calls the numbers, leaves a recorded message and allows the recipient to enter a response or speak to an operator.

Consider large auto dialer software vendors

Many large and established telecom providers have developed call center solutions that can be integrated with existing telephony hardware and software.

I recommend: The Contact Center Manager Server from Nortel Networks is a scalable software program that features auto dialing options as well as advanced management and reporting tools and routing capabilities. Customer Interaction Express from Avaya determines agent availability, then automatically dials the next phone number.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Evaluate your needs when choosing between live or recorded outbound auto dialing software. Recorded solutions are best for simple messages and reminders. Some software allows a recipient to press a number to speak to a live operator. This frees operators to do other tasks, but still be available if your potential customers have questions.
• •  Keep in mind that hosted and auto dialer web-based software will be unavailable if you lose your Internet connection.