A predictive dialer is a type of automated dialer that uses statistical algorithms to predict when agents are available to answer calls. This can help businesses improve their call center efficiency and productivity. Predictive dialers work by first building a database of potential contacts. This database can be created from a variety of sources, such as customer lists, lead lists, or website visitors. Once the database is created, the predictive dialer will use statistical algorithms to predict when agents are available to answer calls. This prediction is based on factors such as the agent’s current workload, the time of day, and the day of the week. When an agent becomes available, the predictive dialer will automatically dial a number from the database. If the call is answered, the agent will be connected to the caller. If the call is not answered, the predictive dialer will either try again later or move on to the next number in the database.
Benefits of Predictive Dialers
There are a number of benefits to using predictive dialers. These benefits include:
- Increased call volume: Predictive dialers can help businesses increase their call volume by reducing the amount of time that agents spend waiting for calls to come in. This can lead to more calls being made and more customers being contacted.
- Improved agent productivity: Predictive dialers can help improve agent productivity by reducing the amount of time that agents spend on non-productive tasks, such as dialing numbers and waiting for calls to be answered. This can lead to agents making more calls and having more time to spend with each customer.
- Reduced costs: Predictive dialers can help reduce costs by reducing the amount of labor that is required to make outbound calls. This can lead to lower staffing costs and improved profitability.
Types of Predictive Dialers
There are two main types of predictive dialers:
- Progressive dialers: Progressive dialers dial numbers one at a time and connect agents to the first available caller. This type of dialer is the simplest to set up and use, but it can lead to agents having to wait for calls to come in.
- Predictive dialers: Predictive dialers dial multiple numbers at once and connect agents to the first available caller who answers. This type of dialer is more complex to set up and use, but it can lead to increased call volume and improved agent productivity.
Choosing a Predictive Dialer
When choosing a predictive dialer, there are a number of factors to consider, such as:
- The size of your call center: If you have a small call center, you may not need a predictive dialer. However, if you have a large call center, a predictive dialer can help you improve your efficiency and productivity.
- The type of calls you make: If you make a lot of outbound calls, a predictive dialer can help you increase your call volume and improve your agent productivity. However, if you make mostly inbound calls, a predictive dialer may not be necessary.
- Your budget: Predictive dialers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to choose a dialer that fits your budget and your needs.
Conclusion
Predictive dialers can be a valuable tool for businesses that make outbound calls. By using a predictive dialer, businesses can improve their call center efficiency and productivity, which can lead to increased call volume, improved agent productivity, and reduced costs.