Call Distribution via Centralized Queue and SIP

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Solution Overview

Problem

Call centers face inefficiencies in managing customer service agent allocation due to unpredictable call volumes, outdated real-time information, and limitations in routing algorithms, leading to variable service levels and increased attrition among agents.

Innovation Solution

A system that utilizes centralized call queue management and open Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) standards to distribute calls across multiple agent nodes, allowing for real-time allocation and routing based on agent availability and call type, enabling flexible integration with various phone systems and supporting remote work scenarios.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If call centers use decentralized routing decisions based on local queue length estimates, then each call center can independently manage its calls, but service levels become inconsistent across the network and calls may not be redirected to call centers with available agents

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent call center operationVSAvoidNetwork-wide service level consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines decentralized call center operations with a centralized real-time information exchange mechanism. Call centers maintain operational independence while sharing queue length and agent availability data through a networked system, enabling coordinated routing decisions that ensure consistent service levels across the entire network.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements real-time feedback loops where call centers continuously report queue length and agent status to the network system, which then provides routing recommendations. This feedback mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of call routing to maintain service level consistency while preserving call center autonomy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If call centers rely on real-time information for routing decisions, then routing accuracy improves, but system complexity increases due to the need for continuous information exchange and coordination

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQueue length estimation accuracyVSAvoidInformation exchange system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal information exchange protocol that serves multiple functions: queue length reporting, agent availability status, routing recommendations, and service level monitoring. This multi-functional system reduces overall complexity by consolidating multiple communication channels into a single standardized interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If call centers use heuristics to handle call bursts and platform problems, then some resilience is achieved, but system complexity increases and heuristics may break down in certain cases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSystem resilience to call burstsVSAvoidHeuristic system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables call centers to automatically detect and respond to call bursts and platform issues using real-time data from the network system. Call centers monitor their own queue lengths and agent availability, making autonomous routing decisions without relying on complex external heuristics, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining resilience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Speed

If call centers have limited visibility into transfer success and duration, then routing speed is maintained, but call bursts may occur due to slow or failed transfers

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRouting decision speedVSAvoidTransfer success monitoring
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary routing decisions based on real-time queue length and agent availability data before actual call transfer occurs. This preliminary action allows call centers to prepare routing paths in advance, reducing transfer time and enabling faster response to call bursts while maintaining reliable monitoring of transfer outcomes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10348903B2System and method for automated call distribution
Publication Date: 2019.07.09 AMAZON TECH INC
  • US10348903B2 patent drawing
  • US10348903B2 patent drawing
  • US10348903B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of systems and methods for maintaining and operating agent nodes are provided. In some embodiments, calls, contacts, and other work units may be routed to individual customer service agents via a centralized queue based on a variety of factors. Some embodiments may provide market-based call pricing and customer service agent compensation.