INDUSTRY NEWS ISM 5226 by Huanwu Qi

Lucent’s Online Communications Center Allows Internet Users to Take Calls and Stay Online

PR Newswire, March 20, 1999

Lucent Technologies announced its new software called Online Communications Center, that lets Internet users take phone calls on the same line that they're using to access the Web. OCC adds Voice over Internet Protocol (IP) capabilities and also provides intelligent call management features, enabling users to decide how to handle incoming calls before they are received.

OCC uses global standards that make the solution applicable for telecommunications networks around the world. Service providers can deploy OCC's powerful package of new Intelligent Network (IN) features and functions either in their Signaling System 7 (SS7) networks, or as stand-alone adjuncts to their switching systems.

Using OCC’s Intelligent Network features provided by his or her local carrier, Internet services provider, or enhanced services provider, a consumer or business user can:

• Answer a call and speak to the caller while maintaining the Internet session on the same line.
• Forward calls to another number and play a pre-recorded message for the caller.
• Set up caller profiles to treat incoming calls according to priorities set by the consumer.
• Automatically forward all calls during priority Internet sessions.
• Selectively screen or refuse certain calls, such as those that have blocked Caller ID.
• Sort or export incoming call records.

OCC's wide range of capabilities brings advanced call management functions right into the home or business, turning a phone line and a Web browser into a easy to use communication command and control center.