Call Queue Prioritization via Time Commitment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Automatic call distribution systems force callers with simple inquiries to wait behind those with time-intensive inquiries, leading to wasted time and inefficient resource allocation.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method where callers can commit to a predetermined call time limit, allowing for prioritization and expedited service by routing them to a preferred queue, with remedial actions taken if the time exceeds the limit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If callers are queued in a single queue without prioritization, then the system is simple to operate, but callers with simple inquiries waste time waiting behind callers with time-intensive inquiries

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewait timeVSAvoidqueuing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The single queue is segmented into multiple priority levels (first priority queue and second priority queue). Callers are divided into different groups based on their inquiry complexity, with those having simple inquiries placed in the first priority queue and those with time-intensive inquiries placed in the second priority queue. This segmentation eliminates the need for callers to wait behind each other while maintaining simple system operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If callers are prioritized based on inquiry complexity, then wait time is reduced, but the system requires more complex evaluation mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecall handling efficiencyVSAvoidprioritization system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses self-service mechanisms where callers automatically indicate their inquiry type through their calling behavior or simple inputs. The ACD system automatically evaluates and routes callers to appropriate queues based on this input without requiring complex manual assessment. This maintains high productivity while keeping the evaluation mechanism simple and automated.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If unlimited call time is provided, then callers can receive complete service, but telecommunication resources are consumed inefficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice completionVSAvoidtelecommunication resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the time parameter from unlimited to bounded based on caller needs. Callers with simple inquiries are assigned shorter time limits while those with complex inquiries receive extended time. This parameter adjustment ensures reliable service completion for all callers while efficiently allocating telecommunication resources by preventing excessive time consumption from unnecessary extended calls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7542561B1Method and system for queuing calls based on call time commitment
Publication Date: 2009.06.02 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US7542561B1 patent drawing
  • US7542561B1 patent drawing
  • US7542561B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for routing calls of an automatic call distributor system includes receiving a call from a caller requesting connection with an agent and providing the caller with an option to commit to a predetermined time limit for the call time. The method also includes assigning a higher priority to the call, in response to the caller committing to the predetermined time limit.