An autodialer (also referred to automatic dialer) is a program on a computer that can be programmed to make telephone calls automatically. Usually the program takes a long list of telephone numbers, either from a phone directory or customer list, and imports that list into the program itself. Then, the program goes through each number and calls it one by one, all without having a user or customer service representative dial the number manually. In addition to dialing the number, the program can also leave a message, provide information such as appointments, or present a menu to the intended recipient when they answer the phone. The more advanced autodialers are able to automatically detect whether or not a live person picks up the phone, and in some situations can connect that person to a customer service representative who is waiting for a call.
Autodialers differ from predictive dialers in that a predictive dialer only connects a customer service representative with a live person. The more sophisticated the predictive dialer is, the better chance that the program identifies a live person from a answering machine, a fake response, or a call blocker.
Contrary to popular opinion, not all autodialers are “evil” and exists solely to spam users with late night TV offers or loan information, chances are you’ve had an autodialer call you for events such as a doctors appointment, a severe weather alert, or a notice from a school to inform you that they will be closed.
Autodialers are used for political phone calls, membership service information, and doctors office reminders, just to name a few other uses. Additionally, autodialers are used for advertising – you have probably experienced a call from a company offering a special offer or discount, and then requesting that you either “press 1 for more information” or “stay on the line to be connected to a customer service representative” – these autodialers are effective because they enable the customer service reps to only answer incoming calls from customers who are already slightly interested in the offer. If the customer is not interested in the offer, they would have hung up or not have pressed “1” for more information.
Autodialers are effective tools to gauge customer interest and demand, many companies deploy autodialing software to see if a product is worth pursuing and taking to market, or if a trip destination is popular enough before the reservations are made. It is important to note that in many circumstances autodialers and legal ways to advertise and promote a product, however, all advertisers must comply with FCC (Federal Communications Commission) regulations to prevent spam and harassment over the phone. You can read more about Autodialer Federal Regulations here.