Voice mail still drives many callers crazy

Article Abstract:

Businesses worldwide are replacing human operators with less expensive voice mail technology to the profound dismay of many frustrated customers. Numerous customers have voiced an intense dislike for the technology which often slows response time and denies them the opportunity to have dialog with an individual. Their messages are often not responded to for hours or even days, voice mailboxes fill up and the technology sometimes does not provide alternatives should the caller have an incorrect or out-of-date number. Voice mail supporters claim that the new technology makes communication more efficient but only if it is correctly used. To remedy the problems, voice mail users are encouraged to update their messages every day so that the information is current and accurate. Most importantly, incoming messages must be checked frequently and calls returned as quickly as possible.

Telephone communications, exc. radio, Usage, Telecommunications services industry, Telecommunications industry, Customer service, Voice mail, User-Friendliness

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Sophistication, popularity gain for palmtops

Article Abstract:

Sales of 'palmtop' computers are up as the devices, once seen as toys, become accepted as legitimate business tools. Psion PLC has introduced a new 8-ounce model, the Series 3. Psion's product is expected to do well because it is very light and costs only $425. It will come with built-in software for word processing and database management. Hewlett-Packard's 11-ounce LX95 is selling so well that the company has added second and third shifts at its plant in Corvallis, OR to keep up with demand. Sharp's $399 Wizard 'electronic organizer,' which stores information such as phone numbers or schedules, is not as powerful as Psion's new product but is more programmable than a calculator. Sharp recently contracted to sell 10,000 Wizards to Prudential Insurance Co. Agents will use the devices to store insurance rate information.

Electronic computers, Instruments to measure electricity, Hand-held computers, Handheld computers, Product introduction, Marketing, Hewlett-Packard Co., HWP, Laptop computers, Portable computers, Sales, Laptop/Portable Computer, New Product, Market Analysis, Psion Ltd., Sharp Wizard (Personal digital assistant), HP 95LX (Personal digital assistant)

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