Glossary
Phone & AI Terms Explained
Clear definitions of the terms you will run into when setting up business phone systems, AI assistants, and call management. No jargon, no fluff.
AI Phone Assistant
An AI phone assistant answers business calls automatically using speech recognition and natural language processing. Learn how it works and when to use one.
David SchemmAuto Attendant
An auto attendant is an automated phone system that greets callers and routes them to the right destination. Learn how it works and when you need one.
David SchemmBusiness Phone Number
A business phone number is a dedicated line for your company, separate from your personal phone. Learn about local, toll-free, and virtual number options.
David SchemmCall Analytics
Call analytics tracks and measures phone call data like volume, duration, and outcomes. Learn what to measure, which tools to use, and how it helps your business.
David SchemmCall Forwarding
Call forwarding redirects incoming calls to another number. Learn about conditional vs. unconditional forwarding, GSM codes, and business applications.
David SchemmCall Queue
A call queue holds incoming callers in line until an agent is available. Learn how queues work, when to use them, and better alternatives for small teams.
David SchemmCall Routing
Call routing directs incoming phone calls to the right person or system based on rules you define. Learn routing types, strategies, and setup options.
David SchemmCall Summary
A call summary is an AI-generated text overview of a phone call, including caller details, reason for calling, and action items. Here is how it works.
David SchemmCall Transcription
Call transcription converts spoken phone conversations into written text using speech recognition. Learn how it works, accuracy rates, and privacy rules.
David SchemmCall Transfer
A call transfer moves a live phone call from one person to another. Learn the difference between warm and cold transfers and when to use each.
David SchemmIVR (Interactive Voice Response)
IVR is a phone menu system that routes callers using keypad inputs or voice commands. Learn how it works, its limitations, and modern alternatives.
David SchemmSIP Trunking
SIP trunking connects your phone system to the internet for calls instead of traditional phone lines. Learn how it works, costs, and setup basics.
David SchemmSpam Calls
Spam calls are unwanted phone calls from telemarketers, scammers, and robodialers. Learn how to detect them, block them, and protect your business number.
David SchemmToll-Free Number
A toll-free number lets callers reach your business at no charge to them. Learn how 800 numbers work, what they cost, and whether your business needs one.
David SchemmVirtual Receptionist
A virtual receptionist answers business calls remotely or with AI. Learn how it works, costs, and whether a live or AI receptionist fits your business.
David SchemmVoicemail
Voicemail lets callers leave a recorded message when you do not answer. Learn why 80% of callers hang up on voicemail and what works better today.
David SchemmVoIP (Voice over IP)
VoIP transmits phone calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. Learn how it works, its benefits for businesses, and popular providers.
David Schemm