How to Use My PC to Monitor Multiple Telephones in My Office

Setting up a PC phone-monitoring system will not require you to get new phones.

Even in a small office, keeping tabs on multiple phone lines can be a hassle. This is particularly true if your business uses the phone to provide customer service or conduct sales. With the right kind of call center management software, you can easily take a look at all phone activity within your office on your computer screen. This can help you to greatly reduce the number of missed calls and keep an eye on the telephone usage of your employees.

Instructions

1. Purchase the call-center software of your choice. Some programs might be available to download immediately after purchase, while others might require you to use installation CDs.

2. Install the software on your computer. This software typically works best if it is run from one central computer, though this might vary depending on the software you are using.

3. Connect all land-line telephones to your Internet router or computer (depending on the software) through a special adapter. It is possible that this adapter might come included with your software package. Otherwise, the software provider should be able to supply you with one.

4. Launch your call-center software. The user interface will be different for each program, but all should have a listing of the telephones that are active within your office. You will likely be able to name the phones within this window. You can name them based on the employee who uses that phone or give them a location specific name, such as "Conference Room" or "Lobby." When someone is using a phone, this will be indicated within the software window, usually with an animation or change in color. You will also be able to see whether an incoming call is going unanswered. While some programs might allow you to answer calls from all phones on your computer, others serve only as a monitoring service, meaning you will still need to answer the phone as you would normally.

References

• NCH Software: Axon Virtual PBX Windows Software
• RingCentral Office: FAQ
• Avaya: IP Office - Features and Benefits
• Carroll Communications: Phone Manager