* A toll-free calling system for the Web
Toll-free numbers are expensive to set up and operate. But in the commercial world, a toll-free number may be just enough to get a prospect to call you instead of your competition.
I just discovered what might be thought of as a toll-free calling system for the Web that adds significant value for Web sites. The system is called CallActivator from ThinkingVOICE Networks (see editorial link below).
The idea is simple: You are browsing a site, and there is the opportunity for the site owner to provide you with human support – pricing, information, whatever. With CallActivator, the site places a button on the Web page that launches a new browser window. This window offers you the opportunity to have the site owner call you. You enter your name and phone number, and the site operator is notified by phone at any location they prefer (office, home, mobile, Dick Tracy watch, etc.).
The site operator then decides whether to make the call. If not, the Web user gets a polite “not available” notice. If the site operator chooses to call, CallActivator acts as a switchboard and places the call between you and the site operator.
The site operator has access to a log of all calls requested and made including the number used, date and time. The site operator can also add in their own notes – in other words, CallActivator provides a simple customer relationship management function.
CallActivator costs $6.95 per month, plus 15 cents per minute when calls are placed.
Not only is this much cheaper than a toll-free number but it also provides a much more useful level of contact management and it is embedded in your Web site, providing a much greater level of customer engagement.
This service should do very well and as the idea is straightforward, I would expect one of the telephone companies to be making CallActivator an offer it can’t refuse. This is much cheaper than any telco building such a service itself.
