Laino begins this 4th edition of the book by defining PBX as the term
most used for business telephone systems. Next, the author identifies
some of the areas organizations go wrong in identifying their
requirements, which is followed by a suggested approach for doing well.
Then, she discerns the ACD or Automatic Call Distributor as a
specialized type of PBX. Laino continues by presenting Voice Mail and
the Automated Attendant together, because they are always almost the
functions of the same system. In addition, the author describes call
accounting as a tool to help organizations manage and control
telecommunications expenses. She then provides you with an overview of
what's happening in the telecom industry now, which may provide a basis
for where things are likely to go.
Laino next refers to the use of a
touchtone telephone to request information from a computer database.
This known as Interactive Voice Response or IVR. Also, according to
Laino, "if your organization does not have a LAN, you may still
implement most of the capabilities described in this book on a separate
PC." The author then reminds you that the terms outside lines, circuits
and network services, all refer to the same thing. Next, she presents
you with some things to ponder, which relate to telecommunications
transmission. Laino then covers the physical transmission medium called
cable, which is fundamental to telecommunications systems and services.
Then, the author provides you with an understanding of the different
types of companies that make up the continually changing
telecommunications industry. Finally, she finishes up by presenting an
historical perspective on the U.S. telecommunications industry.
