Charles A Mcdonough

US Patent:

6587555, Jul 1, 2003

Filed:

Sep 20, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/666413

Inventors:

Daniel E. Cripe - Atlanta GA
Charles McDonough - Sanibel FL
Gregory P. Newton - Dunwoody GA

Assignee:

Z-Tel Technologies, Inc. - Tampa FL

International Classification:

H04M 342

US Classification:

37921102, 37921401

Abstract:

The invention provides a virtual private branch exchange (VPBX) that allows a plurality of individuals to be associated with a single telephone number. In one possible embodiment, when a call is received, the VPBX retrieves the customers profile based on the called number. The profile includes a list of individuals associated with the called number, there are extension number, and any instructions concerning their personal communication requirements. A menu is then presented to the caller based on the called numbers profile. The caller is given a plurality of choices, such as to choose to contact a particular individual, device, or service, such as an individuals extension, a common voice mail system, or an administrative person, such as a receptionist. If the caller chooses to be routed to a VPBX extension, the call is routed to the called party and the VPBX monitors whether the call is answered. If the party answers, the VBPX connects the call.