Local and Long Distance Information Resources Key Terms

Browse key terms associated with local and long distance information resources

By Kristan Hart

Finding local and long distance information resources is key to your business to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Local telephone service involves telephone calls that stay in your area; long distance calling involves calls to people who live in different areas. Resources to help you maximize these two types of calling are imperative. There are a variety of resources available, and it helps for you to know what they are. Consider these key terms to help you out.

Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB)

The Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB) is a governmental organization that handles a variety of consumer issues, including many related to local and long distance calling. For example, the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau has resources available to help you choose a carrier.
Try: You can read about the different CGB Offices on the FCC website.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

All communications regulations in the United States is charged by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). While mostly dealing with television and radio, the Federal Communications Commission also regulates many aspects of telephone companies.
Try: NECA maintains an updated list of the FCC's regulations and how they relate to telephone companies.

White Pages, Yellow Pages

White Pages are the listings in your local phone book that are on the white pages. All residential and business phone listings are included in the White Pages at no charge. Yellow Pages list businesses that pay to advertise in that particular section of the phone book. Printed on yellow paper, the Yellow Pages includes business listings under categories so they're easier for customers to find.
Try: The Yellow Pages Association defines both White Pages and Yellow Pages in its glossary of terms.

Area codes

Area codes are three digit numbers used to route your phone call to its destination. For example, area codes in the north eastern parts of the United States are different from area codes in the south western parts of the country.
Try: NANPA allows you to click on the interactive map to find any area code that you need.

Country code, IDD prefix

A country code is the code you need to dial when you want to call someone in a different country. Sometimes you may also use an IDD prefix, which is a number you dial to call from that country.
Try: SMK Enterprises offers information about country codes and the IDD prefix on its international dialing codes page.

411 directory assistance

When you need to find a local or long distance telephone number, you can use 411 directory assistance. By dialing 411 on your phone, you can reach an operator who can help you find the number you need.
Try: Sprint explains how 411 directory assistance works with its wireless service.