Why Do Companies Use Automated Phone Systems?
Big and local businesses, including government all employ the use of automated phone systems. Few, if any, customers report preferring a machine to a human, yet companies continue to use phone systems.Reducing CostsThe top reason for businesses to employ automated phone systems are to cut costs. A Nov. 6, 2005, “Seattle Times” article stated that a company spends 50 cent to $1 a minute when a representative answers your call vs. 5 cents per minute when an automated phone system does. A similar article in the May 2, 2005, “Christian Science Monitor” claimed the cost of an in-house receptionist cost $4.25 per transaction, $1.80 for an overseas receptionist, and 65 cents to be handled by a computer.Reduced MarginsConsumers comparison shopping online to find the lowest price, or visiting retail shops to see a product, then purchasing it online have forced companies to cut costs in order to remain competitive and still turn a profit.AppearanceCombining a toll free phone number with an autom
